Applicant Review Specialist (4396)

Applicant Review Specialist

This position is primarily responsible for supporting the Occupancy Department's goal of evaluating the eligibility and suitability of persons and households seeking admission to NHA's public housing program, as well as providing effective customer service for all internal and external customers by utilizing excellent, in-depth knowledge of NHA and HUD policies and procedures, and other related programs. This position also requires supporting the Director of Occupancy and other department staff in all aspects of administrative support functions.

The below statements are intended to describe the general nature and scope of work being performed by this position. This is not a complete listing of all responsibilities, duties and/or skills required. Other duties may be assigned.

• Assists applicants who feel more comfortable communicating in Spanish; translates for other Applicant Review Specialists and assists in translating documents as needed.
• Assists in updating applicant waitlist records.
• Conducts applicant screening tasks related to verification of preference and family information, income determination and calculation, credit checks and criminal background checks for all new applicants.
• Performs third-party verifications of information related to eligibility determination, including contact with employers, community agencies, schools, etc.
• Directs applicants in securing required documentation of eligibility determination factors.
• Maintains complete and accurate applicant folders.
• Makes preliminary eligibility determinations.
• Maintains current applicant information in the Ready Pool.
• Works with Asset Management staff concerning the status of applicant screening and updates.
• Processes criminal record checks for new and transfer applicants, additions to the lease and applicable household members at recertification.
• Communicates in writing and orally with applicants, residents, NHA staff, outside entities (e.g. social service agencies) related to application processing activities. Communication requires the preparation of necessary correspondence (e.g. letters, memoranda, e-mails, etc).
• Tracks the movement of applicant eligibility determination files between the Occupancy department and NHA sites.
• Communicates with NHA sites regarding applicant status, final eligibility determination and unit acceptance and refusal.
• Prepares basic status reports to update Occupancy Manager and Lead Applicant Review Specialist on work progress.
• Enters data related to application intake, screening and application updates.
• Provides staffing and support for the admissions window, including application/update intake, assisting applicants in completing applications/updates, and addressing any questions applicants' may have.
• Provides telephone coverage as needed for the Occupancy Department.
• Attends required trainings and meetings.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.