Housing Counselor

Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota is a dynamic social service organization serving children, youth and families, people with disabilities, older adults, and military veterans. Trustworthiness is a value and strength shared by our employees and recognized by the communities we serve. We offer an Alive Workplace (Supportive, Positive and Fun) and careers that challenge, energize, and reward employees. Consider joining us!

As a Housing Counselor you are responsible to provide housing and financial counseling to individuals, couples, and families seeking to reach their financial wellness goals. Housing counseling topics may include pre-purchase, post purchase, rental, foreclosure prevention and reverse mortgage counseling. Counseling may be provided in-office, by telephone, or online modes of counseling. The position may also provide community financial education presentations, financial coaching, assessments and referrals.

Position Requirements:

• Bachelor's (BS or BA) degree or significant equivalence in experience
• Minimum two years related work experience in human services, financial industry, credit or collections
• Must complete certification for Consumer Credit Counselor through the National Foundation for Credit Counseling within two months after being hired.
• Must be a HUD certified counselor or be able to obtain certification within 90 days of hire.
• Must complete assigned advisor specialty certifications within 180 days of hire.
• Strong computer skills including ability to use internet, email, MS Office products and database applications
• Knowledge of consumer credit trends and laws, National Foundation for Credit Counseling standards and Minnesota foreclosure laws.
• Knowledge of financial industry complexity including banking, mortgage, consumer lending, sub-prime services.
• Critical thinking and problem-solving skills
• Ability to deal with clients in financial crisis
• Related counseling skills including empathy, listening, clear verbal and written communication with diverse populations
• Time management skills
• Strong interpersonal skills with clients, community and professional contacts.
• Negotiation and conflict resolution skills when working with clients and servicers on loss mitigation options.
• Bi-lingual: Proficient in more than one language, preferred.