Now Hiring - Family Self Sufficiency Occupancy Specialist in Augusta, ME

Family Self Sufficiency Occupancy Specialist
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Salary: 19-22

Primary Purpose of the Position:
The FSS Occupancy Specialist will provide case management services to participants in the Housing Choice Voucher Family Self-Sufficiency Program (FSS) to help them move toward self-sufficiency and achieve their program goals. In addition this hybrid position will also dedicate half of their time to assisting with the enrollment of approved applicants into the HCV Program including but not limited to screenings, tenant briefings, lease ups, and active recruitment of these applicants into the FSS program as well as executing various tasks associated with the HUD Voucher Program.

Education/Experience: Bachelor’s degree and two years of experience in case management, housing administration, housing counseling, or a related field or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Current Housing Choice Voucher Occupancy Specialist Certification or ability to satisfactorily complete training within one year.

Certifications/Licenses: A valid driver’s license or the ability to reach off-site meetings as needed.

Essential Tasks:

• Administer the HCV Voucher Program o Review and approve eligibility for applicants o Conduct tenant briefings o Complete unit lease-up process o Complete interim and annual re-certifications o Review and approve required paperwork including third-party verifications of income and household expenses o Collect and review owner contracts, leases, and W-9’s o Maintain tenant files o Respond to inquiries from landlords, tenants and partners and problem solve unique issues as they arise o Review criminal history records and approve or deny participants
• Use PHA-web database o Input data o Compile proper documentation to process monthly assistance payment checks to owners and tenants

Other Duties

• Participate in special projects as requested
• Attend Meetings
• Participate and present in training opportunities
• Other duties as assigned

Case Management

• The FSS Occupancy Specialist provides outreach services to prospective program participants and manages an active caseload of approximately 15-20 participants. o Process application/initial assessment to determine FSS Program eligibility o Conduct orientation meeting o Identify applicant strengths, barriers to success, and resources necessary for success o Develop Individual Training and Services Plan (ITSP) that includes goals, objectives, activities and timelines o Execute Contract of Participation o Determine services needed by participants and make appropriate referrals o Assist participants with tasks associated with enrollment and/or application for services and programs required in ITSP o Monitor progress of participants and provide support and guidance throughout the term of the contract

Program Administration

• The FSS Occupancy Specialist is responsible for managing all program, financial and reporting requirements of the FSS grant. o Update and revise program procedures as necessary to remain in compliance with HUD regulations and to ensure program success o Develop and update program forms, letters and recruitment materials as necessary o Complete HUD’s Program Evaluation Tools/Reports and track participant progress annually o Manage escrow accounts:
• Track and report monthly escrow deposits for participants
• Track enrollment/termination activities
• Report changes in escrow status to HUD on a monthly basis
• Monitor progress and request final check disbursement upon graduation or request forfeiture if participant terminates contract
• Perform adjustment/reconciliation activities as needed o Approve all interim and annual re-certifications o Review and approve required paperwork including third-party verifications of income and household expenses o Assist tenants with moves and complete new unit lease-up process o Maintain tenant files o Perform periodic reconciliation between PHA-web computer system and HUD’s PIC system to ensure accurate reporting to HUD. o Apply for annual grants o Complete annual grant close-out process and year-end escrow report

Marketing and Networking

• The FSS Occupancy Specialist is responsible for marketing Augusta Housing’s FSS program and developing a network of service providers and partners to support and work with FSS participants within the greater Augusta area.

o Market program by identifying recruitment sources, and working with state and local agencies and service providers o Conduct presentations for agencies such as the Department of Labor, DHHS ASPIRE, Adult Education staff and other community groups o Identify most appropriate agencies to provide services to FSS participants and establish relationships with staff to facilitate referral process o Monitor service delivery of providers o Support further development of the local Program Coordinating Committee and identify similar resources/groups in other areas of the state to connect with

Skills and Knowledge:

• Effective management of caseload, including assessment, goal setting, making referrals, and monitoring progress with participants
• Knowledge and experience in interpreting governmental regulations and contract compliance.
• Knowledge of service providers in Maine in the areas of workforce development, child care, adult education, transportation and health
• Knowledge of HUD Section 8 regulations preferred
• Demonstrated skill in interviewing and conflict resolution
• Knowledge of federal, state, and local fair housing laws and the ability to interpret them
• Ability to comprehend and make inferences from written materials
• Excellent interpersonal skills
• Ability to plan workload based on established priorities to meet goals
• Proficient computer skills, Microsoft Office Suite and database experience required
• Effective group presentation skills
• Strong project management, time management, and organizational skills
• Ability to establish and maintain good working relationships with business partners
• Excellent communication skills – oral, written, listening
• Ability to take initiative, work independently, and utilize creative and analytical skills to resolve issues

Working Conditions: Fast paced environment with multiple priorities, interruptions & deadlines. Work hours may include some nights, weekends, and travel in and out of state. Travel will be required occassionally throughout the year. 50% of the schedule will be in the office, while 50% may include travel.

Reports to: Housing Operations Manager

Supervises: No one

This position description is not a complete list of duties or responsibilities of this role, nor is it an employment contract. This is an “at-will” position.

Updated May 2023

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $19.00 - $22.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Flexible schedule
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• Day shift
• Monday to Friday
• No weekends

Ability to commute/relocate:

• Augusta, ME 04330: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person