Human Services Specialist

Under general supervision, provides assessment and non-clinical counseling to families receiving housing assistance; facilitates training for participants in personal development; coordinates community outreach efforts with community resources.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Assess needs, counsel, and coordinate participant services.
• Identify and refer participants with special needs to various community outreach resources.
• Organize and facilitate activities planned to enhance the psycho-social development of participants and to accomplish program goals and objectives.
• Interpret Federal guidelines and regulations and to ensure compliance.
• Communicate with low-income, special needs populations.

OTHER JOB FUNCTIONS

• Prepare reports and to respond to government audits as required.
• Utilize Housing Authority software to process rental subsidies. Requires specific training in HUD regulations and requirements.
• Work independently to meet program goals.
• Maintain accurate client records.
• Assess the strengths and weaknesses of existing programs.
• On a nontypical basis, may perform other additional duties not listed in this description that are in alignment with the scope of essential job functions.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required

• Knowledge of social service agencies and their functions as they relate to low-income needs.
• Knowledge of counseling theories.
• Skill in communicating orally and in writing.
• Skill in motivating and encouraging change for the benefit of the participant.
• Ability to obtain knowledge of pertinent local and federal regulations governing the Section 8 Housing Program.

Qualifying Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Sociology, or related field with emphasis in counseling and guidance or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Employment Screenings Required

• Criminal Background Check
• Drug & Alcohol Testing