Housing Program Specialist II (FSS) - Anchorage

State of Alaska•Anchorage, AK

62d

About The Position

Under supervision of the Jumpstart Manager, employee provides case management supportive services to 50 - 70 families needing assistance. The AHFC Family Self-Sufficiency Program, called Jumpstart, is a statewide program intended to promote self-sufficiency among participating families through provision of supportive services. Targeted families will include those who pay a high portion of income toward shelter and are on time-limited subsidized housing benefits. The new Self-Sufficiency Program is an expansion of prior programs and is a key component of AHFC Rent Reform. Supportive services will be primarily coordinated by FSS Case Managers, to include family goal-setting, provision of educational/financial incentives, and information and referrals. Case manager works directly with program participants to identify barriers to self-sufficiency and develop goals and objectives for overcoming these barriers. Employee must listen and communicate with a diverse group of individuals, demonstrating excellent tact and initiative. This is a non-exempt, non-supervisory position.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED, plus a minimum of three years' experience in a social service setting.
Basic computer experience, including electronic mail, word processing, and document preparation (MS Windows and Office preferred).
Must have valid Alaska Driver's license (or be able to obtain one within five (5) calendar days of beginning employment) and show proof of good driving record, when requested.

Responsibilities

Review Jumpstart program applications and enrollment documents for program eligibility. Conduct interviews in person and telephonically. Prepare necessary program documents; notify participants of completed enrollment.
Interviews, advises, and guides a diverse population of clients. Determine participant's strengths, needs, abilities; identify any barriers to employment and opportunities for increased self-sufficiency. In collaboration with program participant, case manager develops Individual Training and Services Plans. Monitors and maintains accurate electronic case files on support services offered and individual client achievements, work participation activities, and progress toward goals.
Refer program participants to other identified needed services, including but not limited to: childcare, job placement, educational facilities, or other necessary intervention services. Facilitate appropriate communication with participants. Provide information on Jumpstart, other AHFC programs, and social services available. Coordinate with local service providers to provide support and educational opportunities for Jumpstart and AHFC's assisted housing program participants. As needed, follow up on referrals to ensure that adequate, appropriate services are being provided.
Manage participant and public contacts with confidentiality, diplomacy, and sensitivity. Maintain strict confidentiality on all facets of program and client records.
Represent AHFC at local meetings of social service providers to promote awareness and support of the Jumpstart Program; conduct outreach to stay abreast of current community program/services available. As necessary, provide program orientation/briefings to housing participants.
Carry out program responsibilities in compliance with applicable Federal, State and local laws, regulations and AHFC policies and procedures related to Fair Housing and data privacy.
Maintain FSS client database updating Case Notes, Progress Reports, and Completion/Termination actions. Prepare and submit associated documentation. Compose correspondence to clients to ensure sustained program participation.
Gather source materials and statistics for the preparation of AHFC and HUD reports, audits and management reviews. Establish, organize, and maintain program files and computer records. Retrieve information from internal and external data management systems. Perform general housing program tasks in the absence of other employees.
May be required to travel both in-state and out-of-state to participate in training and program-related meetings.

Benefits

Health Plan - Medical, Vision, Prescription, and Dental
Employee Assistance Program/Wellness
Life Insurance - Basic Life and AD&D
Group-based insurance premiums - Optional life, Long-term, and short-term disability
Voluntary Accident, Hospital, and Critical Illness
Flexible spending accounts for tax savings on eligible health care of dependent care expenses
Membership in the Public Employees Retirement System (PERS), Employee and Employer contribution
Option to enroll in AHFC Deferred Compensation Program
Personal Leave with an accrual rate increase based on time served
Twelve paid holidays a year
Health Club reimbursement Plan
Education Reimbursement