Housing Specialist

Fort Walton Beach Housing Authority; Fort Walton Beach (FL); On-site; USD 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Insurance coverage

401(k) retirement

Paid time off

Job summary

Fort Walton Beach Housing Authority is seeking a detail-oriented Housing Specialist to manage on-site leasing, eligibility determinations, and resident services in HUD programs. The role emphasizes accuracy, compliance, and excellent communication with applicants, residents, and partners.

Responsibilities include processing applications, annual recerts, move-ins/outs, unit marketing, lease execution, and data entry in housing software, with a focus on quality service and community support.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required; Associate’s degree preferred.
• Experience in property management, leasing, or affordable housing program administration.
• HUD programs experience and housing software proficiency preferred.
• Strong organizational skills with attention to detail and accuracy.
• Excellent written and verbal communication; empathetic interaction with residents.

Responsibilities

• Review, verify, and process public housing applications for eligibility under HUD regulations.
• Conduct applicant and tenant interviews and maintain required documentation.
• Complete annual recertifications, interim re-determinations, rent calculations, and records management.
• Schedule move-in/move-out processing, inspections, and orientations for new tenants.
• Market available units, provide property tours, and assist applicants through leasing.
• Prepare, review, and execute lease agreements in compliance with HUD policies.
• Enter data into Housing Authority software with supporting documentation.
• Prepare reports and data analyses related to housing operations and compliance.
• Assist in audits, inspections, and regulatory reviews.
• Educate residents on lease terms, rights, responsibilities, and resources.

Skills

Detail-oriented

Customer-focused

Excellent organizational skills

Effective communication

Education

High school diploma or GED

Associate’s degree in Business or Public Administration

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Housing software

Job description

Benefits:

• Competitive salary
• Dental insurance

Be part of our mission to provide safe, affordable housing and stronger communities. Join the Fort Walton Beach Housing Authority team!

The Fort Walton Beach Housing Authority (FWBHA) has been serving the Fort Walton Beach and Okaloosa County community since 1968. We provide safe, affordable housing and rental assistance to families, seniors, and veterans through programs such as Public Housing, Housing Choice Vouchers, and Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (VASH). In addition, we own and operate two affordable housing communities, Sound Side Apartments (200 units) and Church Street Apartments (12 units), offering market-based rental options.

At FWBHA, we are dedicated to supporting our residents with quality housing and opportunities that promote stability, independence, and stronger communities. Join us and be part of a team making a real difference.

What We Offer:

• Comprehensive insurance coverage – Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance provided.
• Retirement benefits – 401(k) retirement plan with an 8% employer contribution.
• Paid time off – Vacation days, sick days, and 11 company-paid holidays.
• Meaningful work – The chance to make a positive impact by supporting families, seniors, and veterans in our community.

What We Are Looking For:

We are seeking a detail-oriented and customer-focused Housing Specialist to join our team. The ideal candidate will have experience in property management, affordable housing programs, or leasing, with a strong understanding of HUD regulations and landlord/tenant law. This role requires excellent organizational skills, accuracy in processing applications and certifications, and the ability to manage leasing functions on-site. Strong communication and problem-solving skills are essential, along with the ability to interact professionally and empathetically with applicants, residents, and community partners. A background in leasing or housing authority operations is highly preferred.

The Housing Specialist also provides exemplary service in a manner consistent with the values and mission of Fort Walton Beach Housing Authority.

In this role, you will:

• Review, verify, and process applications for public housing to determine eligibility in accordance with HUD regulations and agency policies.
• Conduct applicant and tenant interviews, ensuring all required documentation is collected and maintained.
• Complete annual recertifications, interim re-determinations, rent calculations, and records management with accuracy and timeliness.
• Schedule and conduct move-in and move-out processing, inspections, and orientations for new tenants.
• Market available units, provide property tours, and assist prospective tenants through the leasing process.
• Prepare, review, and execute lease agreements, ensuring compliance with HUD and agency policies.
• Provide a professional and welcoming presence on-site to support resident engagement and satisfaction.
• Ensure adherence to HUD, federal, state, and local housing regulations.
• Accurately enter and maintain information in the Housing Authority’s software systems, with appropriate supporting documentation.
• Prepare reports, summaries, and data analysis related to housing operations, leasing activities, and compliance performance.
• Assist in preparation for audits, inspections, and regulatory reviews.
• Educate residents on lease terms, tenant rights and responsibilities, and available resources.
• Promote positive resident relations and support community-building initiatives.

What You Need:

• High school diploma or GED required; Associate’s degree in Business, Public Administration, or related field preferred.
• Prior experience in property management, leasing, or affordable housing program administration required.
• Experience working with HUD programs and housing software strongly preferred.
• Excellent organizational skills with attention to detail and accuracy.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills; ability to interact professionally and empathetically with residents and applicants.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and housing/property management software.
• Ability to work independently, manage time effectively, and adapt to changing regulatory requirements.