Eligibility Specialist

JOB SUMMARY

Collect all program applications and maintain the applicant files for the Peoria Housing Authority; perform clerical work in the processing of client eligibility information and other clerical duties all other Housing Programs, including the Housing Choice Programs assigned.

ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES

1. Collects application; checks the information and has clients sign verification of income forms; transcribes information as needed and advises clients of any additional information required.

2. Pulls applicants from the waiting list by referring to files; verifies completion of information; completes forms necessary to calculate the residents rent and mails appropriate letters and notices to involved parties.

3. Maintain waitlist and applicant files in accordance with housing regulations and guidelines

4. Properly calculate rent and income for program eligibility.

5. Provides information to the public, agencies and interested individuals regarding the applications process and procedures.

6. Files and mails applicants’ verification forms and letters; creates files and checks for accuracy; monitors the waiting list and records activities of the department.

7. Prepares files for briefing and voucher issuance.

8. Prepares files to fill vacant units for public housing programs.

9. Responsible for documenting reason for turnover and follow-up calls to clients after 30 days.

10. Screens incoming phone calls and greet visitors of the Peoria Housing Authority. Provides direct assistance to division head and other managers, reviews the relays routine calls. Hand out tenant application forms, receives, and reviews for completeness returned applications.

11. Check the drop box for mail at the Receptionist location.

12. Mail outgoing correspondence (Daily).

13. Sort incoming mail for Department and forward to Supervisor and/or Director (Daily).

14. Track Request for Tenancy Approval (RFTA) and rent increases on computer spreadsheets.

15. Check address in newspaper for criminal activity (Daily).

16. Assist with HCV applicants as needed.

17. File W-9 forms.

18. Update rental unit listing (Every Friday).

19. Track office/ administrative supplies needs for Department (Monthly).

20. Call for copier repairs as necessary.

21. Maintain Department staff meeting notes (Bi-weekly).

This job description should not be interpreted as all-inclusive. It is intended to identify the major responsibilities and requirements of this job. The incumbents may be requested to perform job-related responsibilities and tasks other than those stated in this description as assigned or required.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Associates preferred; High School diploma or equivalent required; supplemented by business school courses in office management, accounting and/or administration and three-year responsible experience in performing various administrative support work and/or experience within public housing or related social programs or any equivalent combination of education and experience.

LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS

1. Obtain Rent Calculation Certification with a minimum passing score of 80%, within 6-months of employment.

2. Obtain Section 8/ Public Housing Eligibility Certification within one (1) year of employment.

3. Obtain Section 8/Public Housing Rent Calculation Certification within one (1) year of employment.

4. Fair Housing Training and certification within 6 months of employment.

5. Complete LIHTC and Blended occupancy certification within one (1) yar of employment

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

1. Knowledge of rules and regulations regarding eligibility and occupancy of Federal housing programs.

2. Ability to communicate effectively in both oral and written form.

3. Ability to maintain complex and confidential files.

4. Ability to make decisions in compliance with the recognized standards of the Peoria Housing Authority.

5. Ability to work cooperatively with co-workers.

MATERIALS AND EQUIPMENT USED

Credit Bureau Machine Calculator Typewriter Copier Machine

PHYSICALDEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit, use hands or finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms; and talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to stand, walk; and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.

The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and the ability to adjust focus.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Work is performed in a normal office environment with some exposure to outdoor temperatures, dirt, and dust. These environmental characteristics are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The noise level is moderate.

EMPLOYMENT EXPECTATIONS

Every employee shall know and adhere to the Peoria Housing Authority’s Core Values (See attached sheet). It is the responsibility of the employee to practice these basic principles of service both inside and outside of the agency. Each employee is held responsible for demonstrating behavior in accordance with these values. Any employee who violates any of these values will be subject to appropriate disciplinary action, up to and including termination, dependent upon the severity of the violation.

MARIJUANA

Although marijuana has been legalized under Illinois law, it is a Schedule I controlled substance and is illegal under Federal law. In accordance with the Drug Free Workplace Act of 1988, the Peoria Housing Authority, as a recipient of federal funds, must maintain a drug free workplace. Any applicant for employment who tests positive for marijuana during a pre-employment drug screening or advises PHA that he/she uses any form of marijuana, shall be ineligible for employment with the Peoria Housing Authority.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Peoria Housing Authority is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE) that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. Qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local laws.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $16.50 - $18.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 457(b)
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Monday to Friday

Work Location: In person

Salary : $17 - $18