Housing Specialist

Olmsted County has earned the 2023 and 2024 Best Places to Work - Southeast Minnesota designation.

Minimum Qualifications of Education and Experience

Expected starting salary is $26.23 to $35.02.  Full salary range is $26.23 to $43.61.

Associate's degree from an accredited college in human services or related field and one (1) year of experience in a similar position as listed in the work functions

OR

A combination of education and experience equivalent to three (3) years of experience in a similar position as listed in the work functions.

Regular and reliable attendance is a necessary component of job/position. Individuals required to use County vehicles and equipment must have a valid driver's license and be free of any major traffic violations for the last three (3) years.

Nature of Work

Under supervision, manages an assigned caseload, performs day-to-day coordination and quality control of eligibility, inspections, new leases, annual re-certifications, and program terminations in accordance with agency policy and in compliance with funding regulations. Recommends updates to policies and procedures. Assists with training staff. Supports a diverse, respectful, and inclusive workplace.

Examples of Work

• Manages an active caseload of clients applying for and receiving rental assistance benefits including determining participant eligibility under the applicable program for initial occupancy, reviewing eligibility and rent calculations as required in accordance with HRA policies and program regulations.
• Conducts and follows-up on initial and on-going Housing Quality Standards (HQS) inspections to determine compliance with the applicable program and communicates results to tenants and property owners.
• Prepares Housing Assistance Payment contracts to coordinate housing assistance payments between the HRA and property owners.
• Serves as primary contact with program participants, rental unit owners, and managers for assigned caseload. Provides explanations regarding housing programs and regulations, policies, and procedures. Responds to telephone and in-person inquiries. Troubleshoots and resolves conflicts with payments, clients, and files.
• Assists with training staff.
• Manages specialty programs as assigned including advertising, enrollment, case management, education, and eligibility.
• Maintains client files and records with accuracy ensuring all documentation and information is complete and correct.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required

• Knowledge of state and federal housing programs
• Knowledge of office procedures and practices 
• Knowledge of laws and regulations pertaining to landlord/tenant relations
• Knowledge of eligibility requirements for state and federal program funding
• Skill in performing and providing customer service
• Skill in critical thinking and problem solving
• Skill in the use computers, technology and unique software
• Ability to maintain accurate and systematic records 
• Ability to work with a varied client base including special populations, clients with special needs and persons of diverse ethnic and economic backgrounds
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other employees and the general public 
• Ability to perform complex tasks and handle routine decisions in accordance with policy

Persons with disabilities: the above is a general listing of job duties. Essential and non-essential functions may vary by individual position. Reasonable accommodations may be available for both essential and non-essential job duties.