Eligibility Specialist

Eligibility Specialist

Housing Counseling Services, Inc. (HCS) seeks an energetic self-starter to conduct eligibility determination activities and provide support and referral services to households seeking housing assistance in the D.C. Metropolitan region.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:

Complete applications and eligibility determinations for households applying for housing programs and assistance; Apply federal, state, and local regulations towards determining eligibility for housing and support services programs; Determine household’s eligibility for programs based on established program regulations and policies; Communicate with applicants/program participants regarding the status of their application via written and oral communication; Assist applicants develop housing plans towards preventing future housing emergencies/financial crises; Advocate on the behalf of households with landlords, social service agencies, etc.; Respond to emergency needs of clients; Connect households to appropriate services to address their various needs such as food, utility assistance, clothing, health care, etc.; Conduct outreach to educate residents, community, organizations, and stakeholders about HCS programs and services; Maintain accurate written and computer based files; Provide accurate and complete monthly reports; Perform other HCS tasks as requested.

KEY QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor’s degree preferred. At least four years of specialized professional experience and/or education related to eligibility determination, case management, housing education/counseling, or other related fields; Ability to understand, interpret, and explain federal, local, and state laws and regulations. Experience working with disadvantaged populations; Ability to work in a faced paced environment; Strong oral and written communication skills; Ability to multitask and respond clients dealing with emergencies with patience and diligence; Must demonstrate the ability to communicate with variety of professionals including case managers, housing professionals, medical professionals, and attorneys; Ability to translate technical information into layman’s terms; Must demonstrate an ability to work with minimum supervision; Must be versatile in order to handle a wide variety of duties; Sensitive to the needs within the community and to individual clients; Knowledge of basic housing principles or capacity to quickly earn; Strong computer skills. 

HOW TO APPLY:  

Email your cover letter and resume to employment@housingetc.org.