Job Details

Overview

Under the direction of the Housing Manager, the Housing Assistant is responsible for determining the initial and continuing eligibility of applicants and participants of the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Programs; and, implementing the Authority's Housing Choice Voucher program in accordance with HUD, federal, local and other applicable laws, rules, policies and procedures. The assistant performs a wide variety of technical and clerical/administrative work and provides information and assistance to applicants, participants and the public regarding the Authority's policies and procedures.

Location: Housing Choice Voucher Department, 2870 Howe Road, Martinez, 94533.

Essential Job Functions

• Establish and maintain professional relationships with clients, co-workers, and the public from various backgrounds.
• Interview participants or applicants for housing assistance and assist them in completing required applications, certifications, and declaration forms; conduct in-person interviews to determine and/or recertify eligibility.
• Elicit pertinent information concerning income and financial obligations from applicants and participants.
• Collect and review recertification, interim, transfer and reasonable accommodation information.
• Evaluate, verify, and calculate information and rent for recertification, interims and move‑in.
• Explain client responsibilities, verify methods/processes, compute housing allowances, and communicate rent adjustments in accordance with HUD regulations.
• Respond to inquiries regarding policies and practices of the application and/or recertification processes.
• Evaluate eligibility factors, verify documentation, discuss discrepancies with clients, obtain additional information as needed.
• Obtain information from previous landlords, agencies, conduct background checks, interpret lease conditions.
• Prepare summaries/reports of information gathered during home or office visits.
• Refer applicants and recipients who need social services to appropriate community agencies.
• Maintain client records in a timely and accurate manner and perform periodic reviews for continuing eligibility.
• Prepare various forms required by federal, state and county governments; respond to correspondence.

General and Other Duties

• Adhere to Authority and regulatory standards regarding the use and safeguarding of materials.
• Review and discuss client issues of non‑compliance with Manager/Director.
• Process and maintain files and correspondence related to the HCV process.
• Assist in orientation for new Housing Assistants or support staff.
• Document and investigate voucher holder complaints, schedule appointments, and refer situations for resolution.
• Ensure privacy and security of confidential materials.
• Assist in other work‑related duties as assigned.
• Meet punctuality and attendance requirements.
• Process overpayment agreements with landlords and participants.
• Deliver mail to post office as needed.
• Maintain working knowledge of office equipment and software.

Other Job Functions

• Perform related duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Effective interview methods and techniques.
• Knowledge of HUD regulations and related housing program rules.
• Familiarity with SSA, SSI, TANF, GA, and other welfare programs.
• Proficient with oral and written English, proper grammar, punctuation.
• Standard business mathematics for rent calculations.
• Operation of standard office equipment and software (Word, Excel, Outlook).
• Organizational skills to maintain accurate client files.
• Time management skills to perform all tasks efficiently.
• Knowledge of referral agencies and contacts to support client needs.

Abilities

• Empathy toward clients, obtain necessary information, and provide accurate information to the public.
• Adhere to federal and state EEO and Fair Housing requirements.
• Interpersonal and written communication skills.
• Accurately calculate computations required by HUD housing program eligibility requirements.
• Maintain confidentiality and avoid conflicts of interest.
• Make decisions on procedural matters with minimal supervision.
• Correctly interpret housing program regulations for applicants and the public.
• Resolve non‑standard situations that arise in business.
• Operate a personal computer using Windows applications.
• Assist in orienting new employees and complete special projects.
• Organize work effectively and maintain systematic records.

Physical Abilities and Work Environment

• Drive an automobile as needed.
• Sit for lengthy periods in a standard office environment.
• Operate telephone and keyboard equipment.
• Lift or carry up to 15 lbs.

Certificates and Licenses

• Possess a certification in Housing Choice Voucher Rent Calculation or obtain such certification within one year.
• Hold a California Driver License with a driving record acceptable to the Authority's insurance carrier.

Other

• Provide proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful admission for permanent residence.
• Undergo a pre‑employment physical examination.

Minimum Qualifications

• Three (3) years of full‑time experience in housing eligibility determination or related clerical work in an affordable housing or social services environment.
• Education: high school diploma, GED, or equivalent. An Associate's Degree may substitute for one year of experience.

Application Procedure

Please submit an application via ADP Apply Here. The e‑application process is the only method to apply. For questions, contact Human Resources at (925) 957‑8024 or ...@contracostahousing.org.

Selection Procedure

Electronic applications will be reviewed and evaluated. Eligible candidates will be invited to advance in the selection process, which may include written tests, interviews, and other evaluation methods. Candidates must score at least 75% to continue.

Recruitment Notice

The position(s) shall be filled in accordance with applicable authority agreements. Open until filled.