HCV Special Programs Specialist

Metropolitan Development•Nashville, TN

6d•$54,621 - $59,192•Onsite

About The Position

Administer the HUD-Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH) program within MDHA's Housing Choice Voucher Program by providing rental assistance, eligibility support, program administration and coordination with Veterans Affairs case managers to help eligible Veterans secure and maintain housing. MDHA is seeking an HCV Special Programs Specialist to administer the HUD-Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH) program within MDHA's Housing Choice Voucher Program. Under the direction of the RA Special Project Manager, this role provides rental assistance and program support for eligible homeless and at-risk Veterans referred by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The HCV Special Programs Specialist works closely with VA Medical Center (VAMC) case managers to determine eligibility, process referrals, issue and administer vouchers, and support Veteran households through lease-up, ongoing tenancy and program compliance. This position is responsible for maintaining accurate participant records, processing annual and interim program activities, reviewing income and eligibility documentation, monitoring voucher utilization and lease-up timelines, preparing files for audits, and ensuring program activities are completed in accordance with HUD regulations, HUD-VASH program requirements and MDHA's Administrative Plan.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Social Work, Public Administration or a related field, plus three years of increasingly responsible experience in affordable housing, property management or a related field.
An associate degree, industry certifications and relevant experience may be considered in lieu of a bachelor's degree. Five or more years of industry experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.
Familiarity with affordable housing, Housing Choice Voucher and HUD requirements, including HUD-VASH program guidelines and their connection to the HCV Program.
Understanding of landlord and tenant rights, rental and homeownership principles, and applicable subsidized housing guidelines and federal, state and local landlord-tenant laws.
Working knowledge of general accounting practices and accurate mathematical calculations.
Capacity to interpret and apply policies, procedures and regulatory requirements.
Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities, including recognizing patterns, identifying root causes and developing practical solutions.
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with consistent follow-through in a high-volume, deadline-driven environment.
Effective written and verbal communication skills, including the preparation of reports and other written materials.
Ability to establish collaborative, professional relationships with staff at all levels, VA Medical Center case managers and community and homeless-services partners.
Demonstrated sensitivity when working with vulnerable populations, including Veterans experiencing trauma, mental health challenges or substance use recovery.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office, including Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
Familiarity with Yardi.
Valid Tennessee driver's license.
Must obtain program certification within 12 months of hire.

Nice To Haves

Experience working with Housing Choice Voucher or other assisted housing programs.
Background in HUD-VASH, supportive housing or other housing assistance programs.
Experience providing services to Veterans, homeless populations or other vulnerable populations.
Experience collaborating with VA Medical Center case managers, community organizations or homeless-services providers.
Experience using Yardi or other housing management software.

Responsibilities

Process HUD-VASH referrals from the VA, including intake, briefings and eligibility determination in coordination with VA staff.
Review participant documents and third-party income verifications in accordance with local regulations and HUD requirements.
Coordinate annual recertifications, interim changes and moves, including obtaining current third-party verification of participant information.
Monitor annual and interim files for required documentation and notify the appropriate parties when participant or landlord documentation is missing.
Review HUD-VASH files for potential program violations and termination and refer matters to Program Integrity as appropriate.
Calculate total tenant payment, tenant rents, housing assistance payments and utility allowance payments accurately and in a timely manner in accordance with Housing Authority and HUD requirements.
Prepare and process HAP contract amendments in Yardi and distribute copies to landlords and participants by first-class mail or email.
Assist with the collection of data related to rent reasonableness, utility costs and general market information, as well as owner-family disputes.
Monitor and track HUD-VASH voucher utilization rates and lease-up timelines.
Analyze Enterprise Income Verification (EIV) reports and compare EIV information with participant-provided documentation to identify reporting discrepancies; address or escalate discrepancies as required.
Identify HUD-VASH participants who are at risk of termination and work with VA staff to provide appropriate support before negative action is taken.
Monitor and track zero-income participants every six months.
Maintain accurate participant and program records and ensure files remain complete and organized.
Maintain an electronic filing system using standardized file checklists and scan required documents into Yardi.
Perform data entry in Yardi and generate HUD-50058 forms for submission to HUD through the PIC system.
Prepare files for third-party and HUD audits.
Prepare correspondence, technical reports and status reports to inform management of the progress of assigned activities.
Maintain accurate records and documentation in accordance with program requirements.
Establish and maintain professional working relationships with VA Medical Center case managers and other community and homeless-services partners.
Coordinate with VA staff regarding participant eligibility, housing stability, potential termination issues and other program matters.
Support Veteran households through lease-up, ongoing tenancy and program compliance.
Perform other related duties as assigned.