Housing Specialist (Downtown/Chicago Heights)

This position may sit in either Downtown Chicago or Chicago Heights. This is a union position. Summary Under general direction of department management, provides assistance to applicants, tenants, and/or landlords and may perform any of the following functions based on assigned area of responsibility: calculates, determines, and processes rent; processes recertifications; manages waiting list; manages payment issues; meets with and assists visitors/callers with questions/applications regarding housing program; processes cancellations; facilitates moves and voucher transfers; processes files to field for inspection; and/or reviews applicants background/income to determine eligibility. Essential Functions Processes and reviews tenant certification documents, both annual and interim, for completeness and validity. Contacts agencies and employers for required information for income, asset, and expense reviews. Runs EIV, DHS, and the Work Number reports for all clients as needed. Collects certification information, including income and household changes, follows up on receipt, and prepares complete certification files. Calculates Total Tenant Payments, FSS escrows, credits and/or other payments as appropriate. Prepares and submits 50058 reports and makes corrections as necessary. Prepares and issues Notice of Adjustment, Bookkeeping Change and other notification forms and letters as appropriate. Utilizes computer system for accurate input, change, or display of information. Utilizes computer system to track certification status, respond to landlord and tenant inquiries, and address other issues as needed. Makes recommendation for termination of assistance when appropriate. Reviews and processes tenants under portability procedures, as needed. Absorbs billable clients by assignment. Processes project based voucher and special admission clients (VASH, FUP, FLOW, SPC etc.) by assignment. Effectively manages waiting list. Maintains applications according to prescribed procedures. Processes new applications and interviews prospective tenants. Performs rent computations on new applications and new move-ins. Answers inquiries regarding applications, rent changes, admissions policies and procedures. Issues vouchers to eligible applicants. Issues Request for Tenancy Approval (RFTA) documents, accurately processes such requests, prepares for HQS inspection, and extends vouchers as needed; processes additional requests for such as necessary. Monitors the progress of files toward completion for payment notifying tenant, landlord, and/or field of delayed files. Responds to inquiries regarding client and HA portions of the rent and payments for new contracts. Computes rent increases as applicable. Resolves new move-in landlord issues. Advises applicant of their expired voucher and closes out files as necessary. Completes a variety of daily, weekly and monthly logs and reports. Completes checklists for all transaction types – renewals, new admissions, moves, etc. Prepares reinstatement paperwork and files. Investigates and drafts responses to written inquiries. Accurately prepares files for HQS inspections and contacts inspection department to schedule if necessary. Maintains tickler follow-up system and meets all deadlines. Reviews and researches files for accuracy. Merges and purges files as directed. Routes non-routine issues as directed, after reviewing and recommending appropriate course of action. Answers calls and assists visitors. Returns voice mail and email messages with 24 – 48 hours. Assures adherence to the agency’s Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Program Administrative Plan and Public Housing Admission and Continued Occupancy Plan (ACOP). Meets or exceeds applicable job-related HUD performance standards particularly PHAS and SEMAP such as: reviews and enters RFTA for inspection on same or next day; reviews and pays new intake files on same or next day; responds to messages on the same or next shift; sees visitors within three minutes; completes 50058 per HUD requirements, etc. Performs all duties in accordance with Authority policies. Other Duties and Responsibilities Travels to various locations to meet with residents in person. Assists with department mailings as directed. Assists departmental staff, as needed to meet deadlines. Supplies local office with lists of applicants in accordance with HUD requirements. Types and files department correspondence and material. Facilitates the processing of notices to applicants, tenants or landlords. Prepares transmittal letter and related documents. Complies with applicable job‑related local, state, and federal regulations. Responsible for safety while performing all facets of job and observes all Housing Authority safety procedures, as well as all local, state, and federal safety laws and regulations. Performs other duties as assigned. Education, Experience AND/OR Certification Associate’s degree (AA) or equivalent in a related field of study from a two‑year accredited college or training program. Bachelor’s degree preferred. Two (2) years related work experience. Certified voucher specialist, housing specialist and/or occupancy specialist certification required. Required Knowledge Skills and Abilities Knowledge of applicable national, state, and local rules, regulations, statutes, policies, and procedures regarding Low‑Income Housing or other housing type as determined by the department at the time of job posting. Knowledge of operating policies and procedures of Low‑Income Housing or HCV programs. Knowledge of problems and needs of families in low income housing. Organizational and problem‑solving skills. Demonstrated computer literacy including knowledge of Word, Excel, and related applications. Ability to perform accurate mathematical functions. Ability to type 35 words per minute. Ability to write and proofread materials for accuracy. Ability to multi‑task and prioritize responsibilities. Ability to communicate and interact appropriately with the general public, applicants, residents, and staff. Ability to follow verbal and written instructions. Ability to work effectively with others and work independently. Analytical skills and problem‑solving ability. Customer relations skills. Demonstrated attention to detail. Demonstrated punctuality and reliability. Ability to produce clear, accurate and timely reports. Equipment and Systems Operated Personal computer and peripherals Standard office equipment. Additional Working Conditions Requires availability to work beyond normal workday. Work environment consists substantially of indoor office activities performed in a heated/air‑conditioned setting. Position requires the need to walk, sit, and/or stand for extended periods of time. Contact with owners and tenants may become hostile at times. Requires stooping, bending, crouching and/or reaching for files or tools. Frequent repetitive hand movement (e.g. typing). May lift, carry and/or push up to 10 pounds. Appointees will be required to possess a valid driver's license and insurance if the operation of a vehicle is necessary to perform essential duties of the position. The hourly wage for this position is $23.04. Benefits Healthcare flexible spending account Dependent Care flexible spending account Commuter flexible spending account Paid time off including 14 Holidays 401(k) – Employer contribution of 6% This job description is subject to change and in no manner states or implies that these are the only duties and responsibilities to be performed. The qualifications listed above are guidelines, other combinations of education and experience that could provide the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the job will be considered. #J-18808-Ljbffr Housing-Authority-of-Cook-Count