Temporary Housing Specialist- Chicago

This is a temporary position that is scheduled to last up to 90 days. This assignment is an in-office position located in Chicago, IL.

The HCV Housing Specialist assists low-income families and individuals, which may include the homeless, elderly or disabled, to secure affordable housing and improved living conditions with the goal of improved quality of life and self-sufficiency. Responsible for completing the ongoing, annual, and interim re-examinations for HCV Program participants such as notifying participants and owner/landlords of updates, initiating move requests, and annual rent adjustments.

Essential Duties:

• Familiar with current U. S. Department of Housing and Urban Development ever-changing Federal Regulations as they relate to HCV Programs
• Adhere to Discrimination and Fair Housing Policy
• Familiar with applicant and participant eligibility
• Calculates applicant and participant income determines rent amounts and executes HAP contracts.
• Schedule and conduct annual and interim redeterminations of eligibility following established guidelines and procedures. Collect recertification information, including income and any other required documentation for the administration of the HCV program.
• Conduct all work activities in a manner that supports the achievement of SEMAP, contractual standards, and/or other performance measures as required.
• Determine the need for interim rent changes and complete all required processing procedures.
• Collaborate with other staff regarding department functions, procedures and client status, and request assistance, as necessary.
• Maintain proper maintenance of client files and computer records to ensure accuracy and timeliness according to HUD regulations and Agency policies and procedures. This includes renewing of contracts for HCV housing participants, including interims and re-certification/review of income and household composition.
• Answer telephone inquiries from participants and property owners. Return all calls within 48 hours.
• Maintain caseload in accordance with productivity and performance standards.

• Associate degree and/or college credit hours preferred in business, social work, or public administration.  

• 3-5 years of previous experience working with the public in a Housing Choice Voucher, low-income tax credit, similar non-profit programs working with low-income families.   

• Must possess 1-3 years of client service experience.  

• Previous experience as a supervisor or in a leadership role, desired.  

• A combination of training, education, and experience that is equivalent to the employment standard listed above and that would provide the required knowledge and abilities 

• Experience working in a high-volume call and production environment with high performance guidelines and stringent deadline 

• Knowledge of public sector housing authority programs and systems is a plus. 

• Bi-lingual is a plus.