What are the responsibilities and job description for the Housing Counselor - Client Services position at Community Action Partnership of Hennepin County?
About Community Action Partnership of Hennepin County
Community Action Partnership of Hennepin County (CAP-HC) works to establish services, programs and partnerships that increase family and economic stability in our communities.
We are pleased that you are considering employment with CAP-HC. To apply, click the link for the position you are interested in, then click either the Apply for this Position or the button to complete an application form.
CAP-HC is an equal opportunity employer.
Client Services, Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Counselor
The HUD Counselor coordinates housing counseling programs that provide information and guidance through group education and individual counseling that supports participants in developing solutions to their housing goals, as renters or future homebuyers. Responsibilities include assessing participant barriers and financial circumstances, developing a budget, reviewing credit history, creating an action plan, advocating on behalf of the participants, and developing relationships with key stakeholders, such as property owners and lenders. Clients served will include renters, potential homebuyers, and homeowners with a focus on renter education, first time homebuying, foreclosure / default and delinquency counseling and education, financial literacy, and credit counseling services.
Program Summary
The nationwide network of HUD participating housing counseling agencies have been helping consumers across America for more than 50 years by providing the answers they need to make informed housing decisions free of charge through HUD"s Housing Counseling Program.
Responsibilities
Participant Services : Provide high quality housing counseling services, adhering to the local and national HUD Housing Counseling Program Standards. Conduct screenings to determine eligibility for the program(s), complete intakes, and enrollment. Ensure services provided are culturally responsive utilizing best practices. Orient participants to ensure understanding of the program. Provide ongoing support as participants progress towards reaching their housing goals, maintain open and regular communication.
Individual Counseling : Conduct comprehensive financial assessments to determine barriers to achieving housing goals. Develop individualized action plans and provide follow-up support to achieve housing goals. Provide counseling for budgeting, credit building / repair, debt repayment, savings, pre-purpose, foreclosure prevention, and general financial management. Connect participants to other resources within the organization and community.
Education and Workshops : Organize and deliver HUD-compliant workshops on homeownership, tenant rights, credit repair, and other housing topics. Educate clients on strategies for improving financial health and maintaining long-term stability. Ensure workshop content is current, engaging, and tailored to diverse audiences. Duties include planning, managing registration, marketing, procuring speakers, and post workshop follow up.
Program Management and Compliance : Ensure accurate, confidential client records in accordance with HUD and CAP-HC guidelines. Maintain organized and accurate detailed records of files and data entry in client management systems. The submission required reports and documentation to ensure program compliance and funding requirements. Report outcomes. Contribute to the strategic planning process in defining desired outcomes for the program.
Community Partnerships and Resources : Actively promote counseling services through community outreach, and partnerships with other organizations. Build relationships with local housing agencies, landlords, and other community resources to offer comprehensive support. Refer clients to external services such as legal aid, social services, or additional housing programs when appropriate. Represent CAP-HC at community events, housing fairs, and professional conferences.
Required Qualifications
- HUD Housing Counseling Certification or obtain it within the first four months from hire date. Obtain certifications and industry knowledge through research, workshops, training, and required compliance.
- Bachelor's degree in social work, finance, urban planning, or related field (or equivalent experience).
- Minimum of three years relevant work experience including but not limited to : mortgage / lending / real estate / case management. Demonstrated history of consistent and stable employment.
- Effective verbal and written communication skills required, including public speaking skills and group facilitations. Fluent in English.
- Proficient with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, Teams) and other relevant software and programs.
- Experience with detailed record-keeping, case file documentation, and reporting.
- Community-based and / or non-profit experience and success working with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
- An open and flexible schedule that includes occasional evenings and weekends. Reliable transportation.
Preferred Qualifications and Desired Competencies
CAP-HC recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and supporting the agency"s mission. We are committed to attracting and retaining employees of varying identities and backgrounds. All job openings encourage women, people of color, LGBTQ individuals, veterans, and persons with disabilities to apply.
Physical Requirements
Work is performed in an office environment and requires the ability to operate standard office equipment and keyboards. Must have the ability to walk short distances. Exerting up to twenty-five pounds of force occasionally and / or negligible amount of force frequently or constantly to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects. Repetitive motion. Substantial movements (motions) of the wrists, hands, and / or fingers. The employee is required to have close visual acuity to perform an activity such as : preparing and analyzing data and figures; transcribing; viewing a computer terminal; extensive reading. Focus and long periods of mindfulness.
Details
The pay range for this role is :
25.00 - $29.00 USD per hour (CAP-HC - Brooklyn Park) The pay is based on experience, skills, education, competencies, and training.
PI257081209
Salary : $25 - $29
