Housing Specialist

King County Housing Authority (KCHA) is currently seeking a talented, detail oriented and customer service focused Housing Specialist based in Tukwila. This is an excellent opportunity for someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment, enjoys a diversity of customers and is committed to the highest standards in public service.

This role supports the Housing Choice Voucher Program. The individual selected may be responsible for any combination of the following: determining initial/ongoing eligibility for housing assistance and/or processing files, and/or managing and maintaining rent requests/rent increases and/or processing Requests for Tenancy Approval. They may conduct briefings on program requirements, issue vouchers, and calculate and certify rent. The work will also include using specialized housing software to document and maintain on-line records.

The ideal candidate will be:

* Able to provide exceptional customer service to a diverse population of internal and external stakeholders.

* Confident as a public speaker with excellent presentation skills.

* Resourceful and able to independently address and resolve issues as they arise.

* Highly skilled as an effective communicator both verbally and in writing.

* Flexible and able to adjust to shifting priorities and needs while maintaining a positive attitude.

* A collaborative team member who is also a strong leader with well-developed organizational and time management skills.

* Able to work effectively under pressure in a fast-paced environment.

* Reliable, with a proven reputation for being consistently dependable.

King County Housing Authority (KCHA), an independent municipal organization is a high performing nationally recognized leader in affordable housing. To learn more about KCHA and our Mission visit this link.

We transform lives through housing.

The Housing Specialist will:

* Provide basic administration, such as scheduling appointments, copying, mailing, organizing/filing documents, and creating briefing, recertification, and moving packets.

* Meet with applicants and/or participants to conduct briefings, to complete intakes, recertification, and/or moves.

* Determine initial and/or ongoing eligibility in compliance with regulations, policies, and procedures

* Collect and organize documentation and verify income, assets, expenses, eligibility status, background, tax records, and related reports.

* Calculate average monthly income and expenses; calculate rent maximums and housing assistance payments.

* Create applicant vouchers and submit applications to supervisor for approval; for decisions of ineligibility, prepare letter of denial for supervisor approval and call applicant with decision.

* Coordinate with applicants, participants, landlords, and partners.

* Provide customer service by answering phone calls, returning voice mails and responding to email requests with clear, concise, and comprehensive information, including complex housing regulations, policies, and procedures.

* Enter data into applicable software; scan and index documents and records into the database system; maintain a variety of files, accounts, and other records and/or reports.

* Maintain consistent and reliable attendance with the ability to arrive on time.

Required Qualifications:

* High School Diploma or GED AND

* Moderate experience in HCV programs, low-income housing, customer service, or investigative work OR

* An equivalent combination of experience and education that provides the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the essential functions of this position.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

* A collaborative team member who works effectively and productively with others; participate and foster teamwork, build rapport and acts as a positive influence to the team.

* Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to clearly and effectively communicate with individuals and groups; ability to present and explain complex information regarding policies and procedures.

* Use systems to organize, prioritize, and keep track of information and/or work in progress; maintain accurate and complete electronic and manual records; exhibit attention to detail; ability to multi-task in a high-pressure environment.

* Proficiency using MS Office applications including Word, Excel, and Outlook, as well as Adobe, Docu Sign, OnBase and the internet; skill and ability to learn and use agency housing management software (Tenmast and Yardi).

* Uses critical, creative, and reflective thinking skills to identify problems, analyze and evaluate various solutions, and monitor their effectiveness.

* Ability to provide exceptional customer service to a diverse population of internal and external stakeholders; ability to work effectively under pressure in a fast-paced environment.

* Strong, positive interpersonal skills, including the ability to work collaboratively; remain professional, calm and tactful in stressful situations while adhering to a high standard of…