Program Specialist (Rental Subsidy & Services Program)

Northern Virginia Family Services•Falls Church, VA

1d•$47,000 - $49,999•Hybrid

About The Position

The Program Specialist joins Northern Virginia Family Services’ Community Housing team and provides administrative and operational support to the Rental Subsidy & Services Program (RSSP), which helps individuals and families who have experienced homelessness obtain and maintain safe, stable, and affordable housing. The role coordinates intake, eligibility, enrollment, rental assistance, and related administrative processes while working with participants, landlords, case managers, and community partners. The position supports timely housing assistance through accurate eligibility determinations, enrollment coordination, and efficient program operations. It manages rental subsidy and other authorized financial assistance processes, maintains confidential participant records and program databases, and supports reporting, compliance, audits, meetings, and process improvements. The role is hybrid, with work primarily performed in office and remote environments and occasional travel to community locations, agency offices, and meetings.

Requirements

At least one year of related work experience in program support, eligibility determination, financial assistance, housing, or client or case coordination is preferred.
Experience handling confidential information and maintaining accurate records and documentation.
Demonstrated ability to interpret and apply policies, procedures, eligibility requirements, and program guidelines.
Strong attention to detail, organizational, and time-management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, including the ability to interact effectively with a diverse client base, landlords, government representatives, and community partners.
Basic knowledge of mathematics and accounting principles used in eligibility calculations.
Ability to assess client situations, identify discrepancies, and determine appropriate actions in accordance with established eligibility guidelines.
Digital and technical proficiency, including working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite and the ability to learn HMIS, Apricot 360, and other electronic databases.
Oral and written fluency in English is required.
Successful completion of background checks upon hire.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in Social Work or a related field preferred.
At least one year of related work experience in program support, eligibility determination, financial assistance, housing, or client or case coordination preferred.
Bilingual fluency in Spanish or other client languages; additional language skills are welcome.

Responsibilities

Conduct initial screenings, intake interviews, and eligibility assessments to determine program eligibility and identify participant needs.
Review and process applications, gather and verify required documentation, and coordinate timely enrollment into housing assistance services.
Determine initial and ongoing eligibility in accordance with program guidelines, funding requirements, and agency policies.
Conduct periodic eligibility reviews and recertifications to ensure continued compliance with program requirements.
Explain program services, eligibility requirements, participant rights and responsibilities, and appeal procedures to clients.
Coordinate referrals and follow-ups with participants, case managers, and community partners to support a smooth enrollment process.
Calculate and process monthly rental subsidies and other authorized financial assistance in accordance with program requirements.
Review leases, rental information, participant contributions, and supporting documentation for accuracy and completeness.
Prepare and submit rental assistance, utility, security deposit, and other eligible payment requests for approval and processing.
Collaborate with landlords, case managers, Finance, and program leadership to resolve payment discrepancies and administrative concerns.
Track financial assistance and subsidy activity to support accurate records, budget monitoring, and program reporting.
Maintain accurate and confidential participant records, eligibility documentation, and program databases, including HMIS and Apricot.
Prepare correspondence, reports, spreadsheets, payment requests, and other administrative documents.
Monitor program deadlines and ensure timely processing of applications, financial assistance requests, and required documentation.
Support program reporting, data quality reviews, audits, monitoring visits, and other compliance activities.
Collaborate with internal NVFS teams, Fairfax County, landlords, and community partners to support coordinated program operations.
Assist with program meetings, trainings, workshops, and administrative process improvements.