Housing Specialist

Kettering, City of•Kettering Government Center, OH

13d•Onsite

About The Position

The City of Kettering’s Planning and Development Department is recruiting for a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Housing Specialist to assist residents participating in the City’s housing rehabilitation and loan programs. The role includes project coordination, client support, and documentation to ensure successful and compliant program delivery and requires strong technical knowledge of residential construction, property maintenance standards, and federal housing regulations. The position requires independent judgment, effective communication, and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously while ensuring compliance with U.S. Housing and Urban Development (HUD) program requirements and other regulatory standards. The position works closely with the CDBG Manager and City inspectors. This is a grant-funded position that will terminate once grant funds expire. It is anticipated that the grant will last 4 years.

Requirements

Knowledge of residential building construction, remodeling practices, and property maintenance standards.
Knowledge of local building codes, Section 8 Housing Quality Standards, lead hazard and asbestos mitigation regulations, demolition standards, and HUD program requirements.
Ability to prepare clear and accurate construction specifications and cost estimates.
Strong written and oral communication skills.
Ability to work professionally and courteously with the public, contractors, and partnering agencies.
Proficiency in project coordination, documentation, and regulatory compliance.
Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license and good driving record.
Ability to organize work sequences and complete assigned tasks with minimal supervision.
A high school diploma or equivalent is required.
Minimum of five years of experience in residential construction, rehabilitation programs, or a related field.
At least two years of project management experience.
Considerable experience in general government procedures, guidelines, and regulations on the federal, state, and local levels.

Nice To Haves

Experience in residential remodeling is preferred.
A four-year degree in construction management, planning, environmental health, or a related field is desirable.
Ability to obtain and maintain a Lead Risk Assessor Certificate and Lead Supervisor Certificate within 60 days.
Ability to obtain and maintain the following certifications within required timeframes: Lead Risk Assessor Certificate (within one year), Lead Supervisor Certificate (within one year), Rehabilitation Specialist Certificate (within two years).

Responsibilities

Assisting residents participating in the City’s housing rehabilitation and loan programs.
Coordinating City-initiated demolition projects.
Conducting housing inspections.
Preparing construction specifications.
Overseeing contractor compliance.
Ensuring that all work meets applicable local, state, and federal regulations, including lead hazard and environmental requirements.
Project coordination, client support, and documentation to ensure successful and compliant program delivery.
Conducts comprehensive housing inspections to determine hazards, code violations, and rehabilitation needs.
Develops detailed, room-by-room construction specifications for rehabilitation and hazard mitigation.
Prepares accurate cost estimates for required improvements.
Assists homeowners in contractor selection and provides guidance throughout the rehabilitation process.
Conducts on-site inspections to ensure contractor compliance, quality of work, and project progress.
Maintains thorough records for all rehabilitation and demolition projects.
Prepares reports related to contractor performance, compliance, and project outcomes.
Assists residents with program applications, forms, and documentation for financial assistance.
Coordinates assigned department and citywide community development programs.
Oversees preparation of specifications, bidding, and management of City-initiated demolition projects.