LIPH Occupancy Specialist Position Available In Lower Connecticut River Valley Planning Region, Connecticut

LIPH Occupancy Specialist Middletown Housing Authority 40 Broad Street, Middletown, CT 06457 POSITION

DEFINITION

: Works directly with applicants and residents of the LIPH and State Moderate/Elderly Rental Housing Programs by conducting interviews, verifying eligibility, and completing certifications. The role requires a thorough understanding of both the Department of Housing (DOH) and the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to ensure that all program requirements are met. As an Occupancy Specialist you will be responsible for managing an assigned caseload, including the ongoing verification of eligibility for continued occupancy as required by DOH and HUD regulations. Supports the Authority’s mission to provide safe, decent, and affordable housing to eligible individuals and families.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

: Receives oral and written instructions from Supervisor and reports work accomplished. Manages an assigned caseload of applicants and residents, including certifications (initial, annual, interim), transfers, move-ins, move-outs (EOP), and continued occupancy in accordance with Connecticut State Moderate/Elderly Rental Housing regulations and HUD Public Housing requirements (24 CFR Part 960). Processes and reviews applications for housing; verifies income and eligibility; calculates and explains tenant total payment (TTP), utility allowances, and applicable program requirements. Prepares and processes all necessary documentation related to lease agreements, move-ins, transfers, and placements. Provides applicants and residents with orientation, written materials, and guidance regarding Authority policies, program rules, fair housing regulations, and available community resources. Refers applicants and tenants to appropriate community or municipal social service and health agencies, as needed. Schedules and coordinates required inspections, including NSPIRE inspections and move-in/move-out inspections, and ensures appropriate follow-up. Plans and organizes work in accordance with established procedures and priorities, employing independent judgment and initiative. Utilizes computer systems to maintain accurate applicant and tenant records and to generate required statistical and program compliance reports. Observes strict confidentiality in maintaining applicant and tenant files and records. Ability to cross-train in several departments to support team flexibility and operational efficiency. Answers inquiries professionally and provides accurate information as necessary. Performs related work as required.

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

: Graduation from high school/GED required. Associates Degree in Business, Social Work, Counseling, Psychology or some closely related field preferred. Occupancy Specialist certification required within six months of date of employment Four (4) years full time work experience is required, with exposure to public agencies preferred, as an interviewer, involving public contact in the social services. Community group work experience desirable.

Strong knowledge of:

• Connecticut State Moderate/Elderly Rental Housing Program regulations
• HUD regulations governing Low-Income Public Housing (24 CFR Part 960)
• Fair Housing laws and reasonable accommodation requirements Considerable knowledge of the function and organization of the Authority and its various departments.

Demonstrated ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions. Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with applicants, clients, external agencies, fellow employees and the public. This includes demonstrating courtesy and respect for others, a strong customer service orientation, and maintaining a positive professional attitude in representing the proper image of the Authority at all times. Demonstrate proficiency in oral and written communications; proven competency in basic English grammar and spelling. Demonstrated proficiency in housing application software and computer proficiencies as required, i.e., Microsoft Word and Excel Demonstrate ability to perform accurate arithmetical computations. Proven ability to maintain accurate, centralized files and records. Proven ability to work independently as a self-starter, proven ability as a team player. Demonstrate working knowledge of tenant selection policies of the Authority. Demonstrate knowledge of social and general assistance agencies, institutions and services available. Demonstrate knowledge of interviewing techniques and methods of establishing financial status and eligibility. Practices strong personal ethical behavior and demonstrates courtesy and respect for others. Demonstrated ability to achieve and maintain a satisfactory attendance record, as defined by the Attendance Policy. Bilingual English/Spanish desirable

CERTIFICATE/LICENSE

Connecticut Motor Vehicle Operator’s License. Occupancy Specialist certification required within six months of date of employment.