Search Specialist

The Rental Assistance Housing Search Specialist provides professional support to families receiving rental assistance vouchers in securing safe, sanitary, and affordable housing within the Authority’s programs. The position spends the majority of time assisting participants with housing search activities, while also supporting other departmental functions as needed. The Specialist works closely with landlords, property managers, community agencies, and internal staff to promote successful housing placements and ensure compliance with Section 8 program requirements.

• Reviews and processes Request for Tenancy Approval (RTA) packages, including screening and document collection in accordance with program requirements. Determines rent reasonableness and affordability, coordinates inspections, and finalizes move-in processes within the Authority’s computer systems. Prepares and issues required documentation, collects completed forms, and provides timely notifications to participants and landlords.
• Reviews landlord rent increase requests for reasonableness and affordability, negotiating or denying requests when appropriate.
• Maintains accurate records of program activities, participant files, and landlord information in the Authority’s computer systems.
• Maintains orderly and confidential files of participant and landlord correspondence and documentation.
• Provides housing search assistance by explaining the rental process, guiding participants to resources for locating affordable housing, and answering general questions (excluding legal or real estate advice).
• Conducts briefing sessions for new program participants, either in person or virtually, to explain program requirements and orient families to the housing search process.
• Interviews and assesses participant families as requested and assists them in developing individualized housing search plans.
• Responds promptly and professionally to telephone and in-person inquiries from program participants regarding rental assistance programs.
• Supports participant families by facilitating communication with landlords, property managers, and community agencies. Develops and maintains strong partnerships with property owners, property management companies, and community-based organizations.
• Fosters and maintains positive relationships between program participants, landlords, and different departments within the Housing Authority.
• Ensures compliance with federal and state regulations, including strict adherence to participant privacy and confidentiality requirements.
• Collaborates with departmental staff to ensure coordinated and responsive service delivery.
• Provides additional support to departmental staff and performs other related duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook. Experience using standard office software and ability to learn and utilize Housing Authority computer systems.
• Accuracy and efficiency in typing/keyboarding, with the ability to produce error-free and professional correspondence, forms, reports, and spreadsheets.
• Proficiency in operating standard office equipment, including computers, calculators, postage machines, and photocopiers.
• Strong command of English, spelling, and grammar; bilingual skills preferred.
• Effective oral communication skills and the ability to project a positive, professional image to callers and visitors.
• Ability to learn, retain, and apply information about departmental programs in order to respond to basic public inquiries.
• Ability to interact respectfully and effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds, including low-income populations and people of different cultures.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information appropriately.
• Flexibility and adaptability in performing a variety of assignments as directed by the department head or supervisor.
• Ability to perform basic arithmetic calculations.

Training and Experience

High school diploma or equivalent required. Must have experience working with computers and standard office equipment. Prior business or office experience is also required.

Salary is $49,777 annually., Position is in the AFSCME bargaining unit