Job Summary We are seeking a dedicated and energetic Occupancy Specialist to join our dynamic team committed to providing exceptional housing services to diverse communities. In this vital role, you will coordinate housing placements, manage occupancy processes, and ensure compliance with federal, state, and local housing regulations. Your proactive approach will help empower individuals experiencing homelessness or facing housing instability by connecting them with appropriate resources and support systems. The ideal candidate will possess strong communication skills, a passion for social services, and the ability to navigate complex housing programs with enthusiasm and professionalism. This position maintains a caseload of participants within the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program (or special program as assigned) and is responsible for conducting annual examinations and processing annual certifications of the participants for continued participation in the program. The process entails scheduling appointments, conducting interviews (via phone and in person), preparing re-examinations and "tenant moving" documents, preparing landlord packets for renewal forms, reviewing participant income and processing within the housing software system. Responsibilities Manage the tenant selection process by reviewing applications, verifying eligibility, and ensuring adherence to Fair Housing regulations and Housing and Urban Development (HUD) guidelines. Interviews and processes annual recertifications, move, and interim certifications for program participants. Verifies gross family income using the Enterprise Income Verification (EIV) System, employers, social service agencies, and all other verification resources for recertification of participants. Educates participants and owners regarding the Housing Choice Voucher Program to include responsibilities of landlords, housing quality standards (HQS), and communicate all provisions of the HCV Program. Conducts Voucher/Certificate Issuance appointments and processes new move documents in the housing software system to generate inspections. Reviews participants request and prepares files for review, i.e., program hardship policies, reasonable accommodation requests, and request for hearings, by a Supervisor. Case records and reports to be incorporated in participant's file for each contract. Assures owner/participant leases are accurate and housing assistance payment contract is properly drawn up and executed in a timely and accurate manner Processes initial, annual and interim recertifications in addition to retroactive rent- calculations while conforming to HUD Housing regulations and guidelines, as well as Federal, State and City government regulations and guidelines. Requirements Proven experience working with individuals experiencing homelessness or facing mental health challenges within social work or housing settings. Strong knowledge of landlord-tenant law, Fair Housing regulations, HUD policies, and housing assistance programs such as Section 8 and USDA programs. Excellent client communication skills coupled with experience in case management and crisis intervention techniques. Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite; familiarity with property management tools like OneSite is highly desirable. Ability to work effectively with culturally diverse communities and underserved populations while demonstrating sensitivity and cultural competence. Skilled in negotiation, conflict resolution, and motivational interviewing to foster positive outcomes for clients. Experience supporting high-risk populations through crisis management strategies and social services coordination is preferred. Join us in making a meaningful difference by helping individuals find stable housing solutions while supporting their journey toward independence! This paid position offers an engaging environment where your skills can truly impact lives positively every day.

Pay:

$21.50 - $24.50 per hour

Benefits:

Dental insurance Health insurance Paid time off Vision insurance

Work Location:

In person