Public Housing Eligibility Specialist

Rochester Housing Authority; City of Rochester (NY); On-site; USD 29,000 - 44,000; Full time

Job summary

Rochester Housing Authority seeks an entry‑level Housing Specialist to support leasing operations and participant intake. You will interview applicants, collect eligibility data, and explain HUD programs and lease rules.

The role involves evaluating income, processing recertifications, and supporting landlords with subsidies. You may perform field work at public housing sites and coordinate with social service agencies.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent and two years of related work experience.
• Experience explaining complex information and applying rules.
• Knowledge of HUD programs and lease regulations is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Interviews prospective participants to complete housing applications and collect eligibility information.
• Explain RHA and HUD programs and guidelines, eligibility requirements and lease restrictions.
• Conducts recertification of housing eligibility for current participants.
• Interviews new and current participants to obtain data regarding income and household expenses and to collect documents of proof.
• Verifies that information provided by housing participants is accurate by inspecting documents and contacting social service agencies, employers, etc.
• Determines eligibility and suitability of participants for residency in public housing and Section 8 programs.
• Computes income and expenses to determine participants rental charges according to the Authority's policies and HUD's rules and regulations.
• Inspects rental units to assess housekeeping habits and safety hazards.
• Discusses complaints and delivers lease enforcement notices when necessary; assists with evictions.
• Assists landlords with completing forms for leases and subsidies; may refer tenants to social services.

Skills

Confidentiality

Multitasking

Communication

Written communication

Customer service

Computer literacy

Interviewing

Documentation

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Associate's degree in Human Services or Business Administration

Job description

Rochester Housing Authority seeks an entry‑level Housing Specialist to support leasing operations and participant intake. You will interview applicants, collect eligibility data, and explain HUD programs and lease rules.

The role involves evaluating income, processing recertifications, and supporting landlords with subsidies. You may perform field work at public housing sites and coordinate with social service agencies.