Housing Specialist

Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians•Dowagiac, MI

About The Position

Manage and coordinate Tribal Government public housing programs and resources, and provide outreach and assistance to people applying for services. Coordinate the buying, leasing and rental activities, and maintenance of properties. The role includes managing program enrollment and eligibility, administering assistance payments, inspecting rental units and properties, resolving complaints and violations, maintaining program records, and supporting citizens with homeownership, financing, budgeting, and credit counseling. The Housing Specialist conducts housing needs surveys and reports on housing needs and services provided, and collaborates with teams across Housing and other Departments to maintain high service levels.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
One year of home lending, counseling, or related work experience.
Proficiency with MS Office Applications.
Ability to be supportive and to work tactfully, collaboratively, and diplomatically with a high level of confidentiality.
Ability to speak effectively before groups and to the public.
Ability to work evenings and occasional weekends.
Ability to travel locally as needed.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution whose program of study is recognized by CHEA and/or USDE.
Experience with housing or property management.
Experience working with Native American communities.

Responsibilities

Provide outreach and manage enrollment and service coordination for Tribal Government housing programs and resources, including repair and rehabilitation resources, loan assistance, ownership programs, emergency housing assistance, and well, septic, and energy assistance programs.
Answer applicants’ questions and explain program procedures, eligibility requirements, application details, payment methods, and fair housing rights.
Interview and investigate applicants; gather, compile, record, and evaluate personal and financial data to verify application completeness and accuracy and determine eligibility.
Determine eligibility and initiate procedures to grant, modify, deny, or terminate services, or refer applicants to other agencies.
Contact employers and other references to verify information and obtain additional details.
Confirm recipients’ continuing eligibility for program benefits as required.
Manage payments for various assistance programs.
Inspect rental units, grounds, and facilities to identify necessary repairs or maintenance.
Investigate complaints and program violations and resolve problems.
Maintain records of sales, rental or usage activity, special permits, operating costs, budgets, local property availability, liens, and other information to ensure program compliance.
Counsel and train citizens on mortgage financing, foreclosure procedures, self-sufficiency in home ownership, budgeting, and credit and debt management.
Conduct housing needs surveys and provide periodic reports on housing needs and citizens served to the Director of Housing, Finance Board, and Tribal Council as required.
Collaborate with teams in Housing and other Departments to ensure services are provided and service levels are maintained.
Attend events and meetings to market or present information about available programs.
Perform other related functions as assigned.