Program Specialist (Bilingual)

Way Finders•Springfield, MA

1d•$24 - $27•Onsite

About The Position

Way Finders is a Top Workplaces for Nonprofit organization, named as an employer of choice because our employees said so! At Way Finders, we are passionately invested in lifting up the region’s people, places, and systems. Though our team performs a wide variety of functions, we are united by our shared mission: to build and advocate for a thriving region; to improve the stability and economic mobility of families and individuals; and to develop and manage a robust range of safe, affordable housing options. Interested in joining our team of dedicated professionals? Way Finders is currently seeking a bilingual (English/Spanish) Program Specialist in our Rental Assistance department. The Program Specialist supports our mission by providing a breadth and depth of knowledge on rental assistance programs, including compliance, program rules and regulations, and in the completion of applications. The Program Specialist supports staff and management by providing 1:1 and group trainings, plus through additional administrative support as necessary.

Requirements

2 years' equivalent experience in housing, social services, public administration, or a related role, with 1 year as a field specialist; a combination of experience plus an Associate degree may be a substitute
Bilingual (Spanish/English) written and verbal skills required
Demonstrated in-depth knowledge of myriad housing assistance programs with the ability to effective train/mentor others on rules, regulations, and compliance measures
Adept with the Microsoft Suite, databases, and comfort learning new technologies
Excellent organizational skills with a high degree of accuracy and attention to detail, plus the ability to reprioritize
Demonstrated ability to effectively train and impart knowledge in classroom and mentoring environment
Ability to effectively communicate (both written and verbal) and in group settings
Ability to analyze financial and other data, following guidelines to determine program eligibility
Ability to travel to perform position duties from multiple locations as necessary
Ability to attend trainings, and earn and maintain various certifications (training provided; six-month time limit to earn certs)

Responsibilities

Maximize client achievement by acting as an in-house expert and consultant to colleagues on the intricacies of all offered programs
Educate and advise staff on policies, procedures, regulations, community concerns, and issues; act as trainer/mentor in 1:1 and group settings
Educate and advise landlords, tenants, community groups, and stakeholders on policies, procedures, and regulations
Assist with the development of resources and trainings, updating as necessary; conduct trainings in both group and individual sessions
Assist in the review and preparation of tenant files for hearings and appeals, consulting with in-house legal counsel as necessary to ensure appropriate case management
Conduct fraud investigations as assigned and appropriate, preparing recommendations and obtaining supervisory approval
Ensure the accurate retention and reporting of data to funding sources
Act as liaison with other housing or social service agencies, authorities, civic associations, and stakeholders
Perform quality assurance audits as assigned, reporting on discrepancies in a timely manner
Monitor incoming visitors and documentation log for regular and proper use
Conduct ongoing assessments of client participation to measure successes and areas for improvement; report findings to management
Provide direct advisement to clients as necessary and appropriate; conduct home visits and fieldwork as necessary
Provide indirect supervision and direction to team members in the performance of assigned duties and resolution of matters of a more complex nature
Attend trainings to remain updated and expand knowledge of rules, guidelines, best practices, and compliance measures for all programs
Establish and maintain strong, collaborative relationships with internal staff (including across departments), owners, landlords, community groups, funding sources, and other housing related departments or agencies
Proactively identify and inform manager/leadership of any issues that may adversely affect the department or organization