Housing Specialist III at Nan McKay & Associates in Chicago, IL

HOUSING SPECIALIST III Location: Chicago, IL, US POSITION: Housing Specialist III      SUPERVISOR: Supervisor STATUS: Non-Exempt SUMMARY: The position duties include a high level and wide range of activities related to determining and documenting applicant and/or participant eligibility, income, rent and contractual relationships with owners in support of the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) operations using written administrative policies and procedures. Interviews Housing Choice Voucher Program Participants on a weekly basis. The position requires full accountability for an assigned caseload including accurate and complete files, resolution of call center cases, and responsiveness to participant and landlord inquires. The Housing Specialist III (HSIII) position could carry a caseload up to 1½ times that of a Housing Specialist I. The caseload includes increased case management responsibilities. The overall performance must meet or exceed the HS III performance standards. Take on additional duties as assigned focused in the areas of general team support.   SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED: Operates under the direct general supervision of a Supervisor. The HS III exercises no direct supervision over other employees but may act on behalf of or in the absence of the team supervisor.  ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES The below statements are intended to describe the general nature and scope of work being performed by this position. This is not a complete listing of all responsibilities, duties and/or skills required. Other duties may be assigned.  • Manage an assigned caseload of HCV participants  • Conduct annual and bi-annual recertifications within required time frames  • Complete interim recertifications as required  • Conduct participant briefings • Process and monitor moves; Coordinate handoffs with vendor • Determine housing assistance payment and tenant rent calculation • Educate participants on program requirements and family obligations  • Resolve concerns between owners, tenants and the Housing Authority • Process all transactions within required Housing Authority’s systems including the legacy system/system of record  • Maintain accurate and complete electronic applicant/participant files • Provide excellent customer service to participants, landlords, co-workers, clients and vendors • Conduct all job functions in alignment with the Housing Authority’s Administrative Plan, HUD regulations and other state and local requirements • Obtain certification in Housing Choice Voucher • Ensure regular attendance and punctuality  • Manage a caseload up to one and a half times that of a Housing Specialist I  • Complete Rent Determinations and generate HAP contracts • Conduct voucher issuance briefings  • Take on higher levels of leadership on team • Conduct percentage of quality control reviews for team  • Act as a mentor to new and seasoned staff   DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS: Education equivalent to a four-year degree from a regionally accredited institution in Public Administration, Social Science or a closely related field; a minimum of two years of progressively responsible work experience for a public agency, or related work in the social service or community service field preferred. Alternatively, a two-year degree with four years of experience will satisfy the qualifications. Ability to apply regulations pertaining to the program. Must be able to communicate effectively both orally and in writing. Must have excellent interpersonal skills necessary for conducting HCVP Participant interviews. Must possess strong computer and organizational skills required to prioritize tasks and demands and consistently deliver work product on time.  Company Competencies: • Collaboration: Collaborates with others • Integrity: Acts in fair and ethical manner towards others  • Leadership: Aligns personal work goals and actions • Quality: Meets quality standards set by organization  • Trust: Responds to immediate client needs  Role Competencies • Attention to Detail: Demonstrates concern for thoroughness and accuracy  • Fostering Communication: Communicates complex messages  • Information Gathering and Processing: Processes complex information from various sources  • Managing Project Execution: Basic: Demonstrates basic knowledge and ability and, with guidance, can apply the competency in common situations that present limited difficulties.  • Problem Solving: Solves complex problems