Occupancy Specialist

Spokane Housing Authority•Spokane, WA

22h•$27 - $39•Onsite

About The Position

Under the direct supervision of a Housing Programs Manager, the Occupancy Specialist performs a variety of day-to-day functions associated with ensuring efficient transition for applicants from waiting lists to project-based voucher (PBV) units and to tenant-based voucher opportunities. Work involves administering waiting lists for all housing assistance programs, assisting clients through application and eligibility processes, monitoring utilization for project-based and tenant-based voucher programs, and collaborating with internal and external partners to ensure timely voucher issuance.

Requirements

Knowledge of publicly funded housing assistance programs, applicable regulations, client eligibility, and rental subsidy operations.
Strong understanding of Fair Housing laws, including state, federal, and local landlord-tenant laws.
Knowledge of Washington State Landlord-Tenant Act and its impact on rental assistance programs.
Familiarity with local human service resources and community-based assistance programs to connect applicants with appropriate support services.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including database management, spreadsheets, and data entry functions.
Strong knowledge of general office equipment such as copiers, faxes, multi-line phones, and scanners.
Ability to manage large volumes of applicant and participant data with accuracy and efficiency.
Experience in file management, compliance tracking, and report generation for housing programs.
Ability to effectively serve low-income, vulnerable individuals, including those with disabilities and Limited English Proficiency (LEP).
Skilled in professional verbal and written communication for engaging applicants, landlords, and program participants.
Experience producing written reports, presenting to groups, and explaining rules/policies.
Capacity to remain calm, tactful, and professional under stressful and emotionally charged situations.
Strong ability to analyze applicant cases and determine eligibility within federal and state guidelines.
Skilled in identifying and communicating customer rights, including reasonable accommodations and mitigating circumstances.
Ability to work independently with minimal supervision, while maintaining flexibility and sound judgment in decision-making.
High school diploma or GED equivalency is required.
Minimum of one year of general office experience in program administration, housing services, or related fields
Must maintain an acceptable credit history.
Must have and maintain a valid driver's license, reliable transportation, satisfactory driving record, and adequate insurance coverage per SHA policy.
Works regular and reliable hours on-site as required.
Attendance must be punctual and consistent.
Works an agreed-upon schedule and works additional hours as necessary to complete work.
Works effectively, cooperatively, and respectfully with co-workers, clients, and other contacts.
Follows all SHA Safety Policies and Procedures.
Follows all SHA Personnel Policies and Procedures.
Performs other duties as assigned.

Responsibilities

Contribute to achieving the SHA mission, compliance standards, and the effective and efficient administration of rental assistance programs, ensuring adherence to applicable federal, state, local, and agency regulations, rules, laws, and procedures.
Administer Housing Assistance Program waiting lists in accordance with SHA’s Administrative Plan and program requirements, including sorting waiting lists, selecting and communicating with applicants, responding to applicant inquiries, and removing inactive/ineligible applicants.
Assist clients with application, eligibility, and voucher issuance processes.
Proactively monitor project-based and tenant-based voucher utilization rates, identify underutilized units, and implement strategies to maximize occupancy.
Promptly fulfill voucher referral requests.
Collaborate with property owners/managers and internal staff to remove voucher issuance or leasing barriers.
Prepare occupancy and waiting list reports as assigned.
Coordinate interpreters when translation services are needed for applicants, participants, or landlords with Limited English Proficiency (LEP).
Review and process client requests for Reasonable Accommodations, according to HUD and SHA standards.
Attend training, review relevant publications, and engage in professional development to remain current on evolving federal regulations and policies.
Attend regular meetings to discuss strategies for improving client services and reviewing policies and procedures.
Establish and maintain positive relationships with the public, applicants, and landlords while ensuring compliance with SHA policies, rules, and regulations.
Educate, network, and coordinate with previous, current, and potential property owners/managers, participants, and various social service and governmental agencies to resolve issues and ensure high-quality customer service.
Coordinate activities and share information with other SHA departments, including Finance, Administration, and Asset Management.
Provide excellent customer service by responding to inquiries and concerns in a timely manner.
Plan and organize work according to established office procedures and best practices.
Establish priorities within work assignments while employing independent judgment and initiative.
Maintain strict confidentiality when handling sensitive files and records.
Attend training sessions related to housing and program administration to stay up to date with industry best practices and evolving job requirements.
Work closely and professionally with other public agencies and organizations that may be available to support SHA communities.
Assist other Department staff with assignments as necessary.