Lead Housing Specialist

Lead Housing Specialist

The Housing Opportunities Commission of Montgomery County (HOC) was established in 1974 to better respond to the County's need for affordable housing. HOC is authorized to acquire, own, lease, and operate housing; to provide for the construction or renovation of housing; obtain financial assistance from any public or private source to assist its housing activities; and arrange for social services, resident services, and daycare.

This position will serve as a lead worker and assist Housing Specialists in the application of the Housing Choice Voucher Program Regulations. This position requires knowledge of Federal, State and local rules and regulations governing subsidized housing and HOC programs.

The incumbent will maintain a caseload of specialized programs within the voucher program, including but not limited to: Project-Based Vouchers, Portability and Homeownership. Daily responsibilities include determining applicant eligibility, recertifying and updating family income, and processing contracts for initial move ins and transfers.

The incumbent's efforts support the effectiveness of housing programs available at HOC and the type of services provided to clients. Contacts are with housing applicants, residents, employees and other organizations and individuals such as social service agencies and Public Housing Authorities. Assistance with housing needs is provided to customers on an ongoing basis. The employee's work has a direct bearing on the effectiveness of the housing program and the quality of services provided to clients.

Duties include:

• Serve as a lead worker and assist Housing Specialists in the application of the Housing Choice Voucher Program Regulations.
• Maintain a caseload of specialized Housing Choice Voucher programs, including but not limited to Project-Based Vouchers, Portability, and Homeownership.
• Determine applicant, eligibility, recertifying and updating family income, and processing contracts for initial move ins and transfers.
• Assist with the housing needs that are provided to customers on an ongoing basis.

Minimum Qualifications:

Experience:

• At least 3 years' experience certifying participants in federally subsidized affordable housing program such as Housing Choice Voucher, Tax Credit of other subsidized housing program.

Education:

• Requires a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Social Work, Public Administration or related field.

Certification:

• Certification in Housing Choice Voucher program is required. Individuals must have passed or will pass within six months of hire, Housing Choice Voucher Program regulations certification exam.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Knowledge of Housing Choice Voucher Program regulations, guidelines, and Federal, State and local landlord-tenant laws.
• Ability to communicate well, both orally and in writing with a variety of audiences and strong communication services skills required.
• Ability to serve as a lead worker.
• Strong interviewing and counseling skills.
• Ability to meet deadlines and knowledge of computer software and experience with database management.
• Property management, marketing, and training experience helpful.
• Good data entry, calculator, and math skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Foreign language ability desirable.

An equivalent combination of education and experience may be accepted. Low income residents in Montgomery County with the above qualifications are encouraged to apply.

* Salary Range: Grade 21- Min: $62,964 / Mid: $83,130 / Max: $103,295 | Salary determined by departmental budget - Offer commensurate with experience.

HOC is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, color, age, national origin, religion, disability, genetic information, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender reassignment, citizenship, immigration status, protected veteran status, or any other basis prohibited under applicable federal, state or local law. HOC promotes a drug-free workplace.

HOC conducts criminal background checks, employment reference checks, and where applicable, reviews driving records in determining suitability for employment. Selected applicants will be required to submit to pre-employment drug and alcohol screening. Employment is contingent upon drug and alcohol test results.