Housing Assistant

The City of Pasadena is seeking a Housing Assistant with knowledge and experience of rental subsidies and other affordable housing programs such as Section 8 to support the administration of the City's rental assistance programs. The Housing Assistant performs administrative, professional and technical housing work including case administration for the housing assistance program participants. This position is responsible for determining both initial and continuing eligibility for rental subsidies and other affordable housing programs. To learn more about the Housing Department click here . Ideal Candidate The ideal candidate for this position is detail-oriented and experienced in rental subsidies and affordable housing programs, including Section 8. They demonstrate strong analytical and arithmetic skills, effective time management, and the ability to manage a workload efficiently. They bring a commitment to high-quality work, a social service mindset, and the ability to work with diverse populations and mediate between landlords and tenants. The major responsibilities of this position are listed below. For more detailed information, please review the job description . Conducts initial, annual, interim and special housing reviews with tenants to ensure the appropriate benefits are paid. Determines initial and continuing eligibility for rental subsidy and other affordable housing programs. Computes applicant eligibility according to federal and state guidelines; manages an assigned caseload; maintains accurate and up-to-date manual and automated files. Verifies and documents a variety of information required by program guidelines including income, family composition, assets and other pertinent information. Calculates accurate tenant rent and rental subsidy portions by annualizing household income and applying federal income guidelines. Conducts briefing sessions for qualified applicants

• interprets and explains rules and regulations, policies and procedures; provides information on available housing.

Responds to tenant/voucher holder's inquiries regarding eligibility issues, program changes and policies and procedures of the Housing Authority. Makes referrals to community resources; advises tenants of upcoming housing inspections and lease negotiations; conducts home visits to resolve landlord tenant disputes and eligibility related issues. Interprets and applies provisions of program rules and regulations; counsels applicants and program participants on program rules and regulations; evaluates conformance with applicable regulations; takes appropriate corrective action; monitors cases for fraud, computes overpayment and maintains repayment records; does necessary follow ups on repayment agreements. Participates in rental assistance termination hearings; presents information and justification for termination to impartial hearing officer; reinstates or closes case based on hearing officer's determination. Prepares a variety of clear and concise correspondence, narrative reports and statistical information related to assigned cases. Becomes familiar with new rental subsidies and affordable housing programs; stays abreast of changes in existing program rules, regulations, policies and procedures. May conduct unit inspections and assist with tenant leasing and rent negotiations. Performs other related duties as assigned.

COMPETENCIES

The following list represents some of the core competencies for this position. Focus

• one's skill at directing and maintaining attention on those tasks that are most important, meaningful and beneficial. Integrity
• the habit of acting honestly and professionally, and of behaving in a manner consistent with your personal ethical values and those of your organization, even when there are pressures or incentives to act otherwise. Communication
• the art of effectively sharing information with others, typically with goals of building relationships, informing decision processes and coordinating group action. Results Orientation
• a focus on creating realistic daily tasks that regulate day-to-day work, tracking one's success, and otherwise acting to ensure steady progress towards overall goals or milestones. These behaviors help people keep progress on track without any negative surprises. Multitasking
• the art of managing and prioritizing many different tasks while maintaining focus on those that are most important.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Graduation from high school or G.E.D. equivalent AND (2) two years' experience in rental subsidy and other affordable housing and/or leasing programs; or an equivalent combination of training and experience. Experience in a public agency is preferred.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Bilingual in Armenian.

SELECTION PROCESS

Selection is based on review of applications and supplemental applications submitted. Those who appear best qualified may be invited to any combination of an online written examination, in person performance and/or oral appraisal to further evaluate their job-related experience, knowledge, skills and abilities. Applicants may also be required to complete a brief soft-skills assessment during the selection process. The candidate assessment provides insight into core interpersonal skills, behavioral traits, and preferred work environment, helping us support your success in the role.

VACANCY INFORMATION

There is currently (1) one vacancy in Rental Assistance division in the Housing Department. The eligibility list created from this recruitment may be used to fill current and future vacancies over the next twelve months. The probationary period for this position is one year. Must possess a valid California Class C driver's license and comply with the City's Motor Vehicle Safety Policy during the course of employment.