Housing Specialist

The City of Wichita is seeking an experienced and dedicated Housing Specialist to join our team in supporting and coordinating the Section 8 Housing Program and Public Housing Programs. This position plays a crucial role in facilitating access to affordable housing by working closely with applicants, tenants, and a variety of external agencies and organizations. As a Housing Specialist, you will be responsible for managing tenant applications, explaining eligibility criteria, and ensuring compliance with housing regulations. Your efforts will directly impact the lives of residents, contributing to the success and sustainability of the City’s housing programs.

Responsibilities

• Interviews applicants, obtains background information, clarifies questions pertaining to occupancy standards and income, and explains rules, regulations and eligibility requirements for public housing.
• Plans, advertises and conducts tenant application sessions.
• Monitors changes in eligibility requirements, occupancy standards, rent calculations or other matters affecting an applicant's/tenant's eligibility for Public Housing Programs.
• Calculates rents based on the income of the tenant and the regulations and schedules of WHA.
• Responds to inquiries which pertain to the status of specific applicants and WHA/Section 8 policies governing admission.
• Compiles reports on tenant selection activities and maintains files, statistics, and records in keeping with HUD requirements and WHA guidelines.
• Maintains contact with applicants, (also in Section 8 program).
• May select and assign applicants/tenants to appropriate units in accordance with approved policies and procedures.
• Completion of work assignments will require the operation of a vehicle.
• The examples of work performed are not intended to be all-inclusive. 
• The City of Wichita reserves the right to assign additional duties as needed.

Qualifications

• Considerable knowledge of housing leasing and inspection practices.
• Knowledge of Kansas Tenant Act, federally subsidized housing regulations and local housing codes.
• Ability to make mathematical computations with speed and accuracy.
• Ability to understand applicable City and/or HUD ordinances/codes/regulations.
• Ability to access and maneuver through an occupied or vacant unit that is not specifically designed for handicap access.
• Ability to perform file maintenance tasks originating, updating and storing files in manual and electronic record keeping systems.
• Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with associates, representatives of other organizations, and the public.
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively, orally, in writing, and by whatever creative means are necessary to cross communication barriers.
• Ability to acquire and maintain a valid Kansas driver's license.
• An employee shall not pose a direct threat to the health or safety of other individuals in the workplace.