Housing Specialist

Panama City, City of•Panama City, FL

11d

About The Position

Under the general guidance and leadership of the Director of Housing and Community Services, the Housing Specialist performs technical and administrative work supporting housing assistance and residential rehabilitation programs. The role requires knowledge of Federal and State housing programs, grant-funded housing programs, residential construction, case management, and community development funding requirements. The Housing Specialist conducts detailed housing inspections, prepares scopes of work, oversees contracts, and ensures compliance with Federal, State, and local requirements. The position supports clients throughout housing assistance and rehabilitation programs, coordinates with homeowners, contractors, inspectors, partner organizations, vendors, and financial institutions, and maintains program files and compliance documentation. The role also monitors budgets, supports audits and regulatory reporting, oversees construction progress and closeout, and conducts outreach to promote program participation and community awareness.

Requirements

High school diploma or an acceptable equivalency diploma.
Valid driver’s license.
Knowledge of building codes, rehabilitation standards, and basic residential construction practices.
Ability to manage multiple housing rehabilitation projects from planning through completion.
Strong oral and written communication skills with clients, contractors, vendors, team members, and regulatory agencies.
Knowledge of HUD protocols and regulations related to lead-based paint hazards, including risk assessments, abatement, interim control procedures, and clearance standards.
Problem-solving and conflict-resolution skills, particularly in contractor-homeowner disputes.
Ability to assist clients with department programs professionally and empathetically.
Ability to maintain accurate records and documentation related to inspections, permits, contractor licensing, and project progress.
Ability to establish and maintain effective, cooperative, professional, team-focused relationships with team members, leaders, other departments, community members, and the public.
Ability to learn third-party software independently and efficiently.
Strong skills in Microsoft Office products, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
Ability to adapt plans and scopes of work to client needs while adhering to program budgets and timelines.
Strong knowledge of housing regulations and community development programs.
Excellent case management and organizational skills.
Proficiency in housing software systems and documentation standards.
Working knowledge of basic accounting principles and practices.
A comparable amount of training or experience may be substituted for the minimum qualifications.

Nice To Haves

At least one year of experience with CDBG, HUD, and Florida Housing Programs preferred.
At least one year of mortgage or banking experience preferred.

Responsibilities

Conduct eligibility screenings, review applications, assess client needs, and provide case management for people seeking housing assistance.
Prepare and maintain program files, compliance documentation, environmental reviews, and regulatory reporting.
Monitor projected budgets and ensure adherence to funding guidelines.
Perform on-site inspections to identify deficiencies and determine rehabilitation repairs needed.
Review work write-ups and cost estimates.
Oversee construction activities and conduct progress and final inspections to ensure compliance with program standards.
Review invoices, change orders, and closeout documentation.
Guide clients through the rehabilitation and housing program process, explaining requirements, timelines, and expectations.
Serve as liaison among homeowners, contractors, inspectors, partner organizations, and financial institutions.
Conduct outreach to promote program participation and community awareness.
Interpret and apply CDBG, HUD, Florida Housing Finance Corporation, and applicable local program requirements and policies.
Assist with audits, monitoring visits, and corrective actions.
Conduct pre-construction conferences with clients and contractors and prepare related documents.
Coordinate with vendors for installation of carpet, water heaters, appliances, and other items needed to complete construction.
Ensure warranty work is completed and project files are properly closed.
Oversee maintenance of contractor insurance, license, and permit records.
Maintain records and documentation of inspections and other work performed.
Compile data and submit written and/or oral reports.
Perform other duties as assigned.