Housing Quality Standards Inspector - Housing Authority

GENERAL STATEMENT OF DUTIES
Inspects housing units for compliance with Housing Quality Standards and Uniform Physical Condition Standards. Conducts rent surveys. Certifies dwellings are rent reasonable. Enters and maintains computerized inspection records. Notifies owners of dwelling deficiencies. Abates rents as required. Documents evidence of program abuse or fraud. Performs other duties as required.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED
Works under the general supervision of the Housing Supervisor who establishes goals and reviews performance through conferences and analysis of reports.

SUPERVISION EXERCISED
Supervision of others is not a function of positions in this classification; however, may provide lead direction to employees in lower level classifications.

• Inspects housing units for compliance with Housing Quality Standards (HQS) and Uniform Physical Condition Standards (UPCS); inspects units prior to new participants moving in and on an annual basis; notifies owners of needed repairs and re-inspects for HQS; conducts housekeeping inspections for owned housing programs.

• Performs initial, annual, special and vacate inspections within program and Housing Authority guidelines; certifies the decent, safe and sanitary condition of all rental dwellings on the program in compliance with HQS and UPCS accordingly.

• Comprehensively documents unit condition, amenities and other factors related to rent reasonableness; uses computer programs and software to document, schedule inspections, draft correspondence and maintain records as required.

• Advises owners and participants of inspection results and necessary corrective action; negotiates repairs and rents with owners in order to make units eligible for Section 8 subsidy.

• Maintains records, documentation and files on prospective tenants as they relate to the inspection lease-up process under the Section 8 program; maintains computer records including unit information and inspection status.

• Conducts rent surveys to determine the rent reasonableness of proposed Section 8 housing; maintains documentation of private sector rentals.

• Responds to telephone inquiries from owners and participants regarding the inspection process; answers questions and provides information/referrals to current and prospective owners and property managers; assists in suggesting solutions to rental dwelling maintenance issues.

• Documents evidence of program abuse or fraud.

• Performs related duties as directed.

EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING

1. High school equivalency, preferably supplemented by two years of college with significant coursework in the social sciences, housing, real estate, industrial arts or vocational-technical coursework in carpentry, plumbing, electrical or related field; AND
2. Three years of experience with low-income, senior or housing related programs; or
3. Any satisfactory combination of work, education, training, or experience relevant to the position, as determined by Marion County.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS 

• Driving is a requirement, applicants must possess a current driver's license in their state of residence, an acceptable driving history, and proof of personal automobile liability insurance [ORS Chapter 806]. The county may modify driving requirements under exceptional circumstances.
• May be required to use personal vehicle for business use.
• Must possess a current driver's license in the applicant's state of residence and an acceptable driving history.  Must be insurable at standard rates. Marion County will obtain a copy of the driving record for selected applicants from Driver and Motor Vehicle Services.
• The finalist for this position may be required to pass a criminal history background check, however conviction of a crime may not necessarily disqualify an individual for this position.
• This position is not represented by a union.
• This is a full-time position, which is eligible for overtime.
• Typical Work Schedule: Monday through Friday, days, with flexibility depending upon the needs of the department and program.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
Working knowledge of Housing Quality Standards (HQS), Uniform Physical Condition Standards (UPCS) and Housing Authority policy; basic knowledge of rental assistance and affordable housing programs; knowledge of construction methods, materials, terminology and techniques; knowledge of the building and mechanical trades as they pertain to residential construction; the ability to read and understand technical documentation such as federal housing regulations and associated policies and procedures; ability to exercise considerable independent judgment in applying established procedures and regulations to new and recurring work situations; ability to perform and understand basic mathematical calculations such as fractions and percentages; ability to communicate clearly and appropriately in written and oral form; ability to establish and maintain harmonious working relationships with staff, contractors and the public; ability to learn and follow regulations, policies and procedures of the Housing Authority; ability to maintain confidentiality of tenants and landlords; ability to work with diverse ethnic and low-income families in a professional manner; skill in operating a computer and in using other modern office equipment.

Salary : $22 - $30