The *Housing Counselor *delivers supportive counseling services to the general public to meet housing goals. The Housing Counselor is well versed in housing options and financial analysis to assist with resource advocacy, financial issues, home buyer education, budget building, credit building and repair, mortgage and tax foreclosure mitigation, homeless services, and rental assistance services. This position is a solution focused and problem-solving interactive position that shares information (education), removes barriers (counseling), and supports client activities to help them reach defined goals (coaching). A consumer advocate who will build relationships with community providers, housing providers, local resources and lenders to advocate successfully on behalf of consumers.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Program Services

1. Accepts and processes requests for services.

2. Performs client intake and assesses client needs for services, such as financial, budget, credit, housing etc.

3. Creates action plans based on assessed individual client needs and provides one-on-one support.

4. Performs required HUD record keeping and prepares reports for funders.

5. Plans and delivers group events, including home buyer education sessions and financial education classes;

6. Works with outside agencies and providers to facilitate client’s services and interventions, including mortgage companies, banks, housing providers and other entities.

7. Provides outreach to promote and market services to attract new clients; assists in obtaining funding and developing additional service delivery options.

8. Maintains data in internal and external record systems as necessary.

9. Performs program activities according to agency and program policies procedures.

10. Maintains confidentiality of sensitive information according to agency and legal standards.

11. Provides services meeting appropriate timelines and program outcome standards.

12. Knowledge of evaluation and outcome measurement

13. Plans for immediate and long-range goals and maintains flexibility to adjust to change.

Professional Development:

1. Keeps current with Federal, State and Local regulations governing all aspects relevant to this position

2. Maintains required certifications.

3. Subscribe to National Industry Standards for Home Ownership Counseling & Education.

4. Participates in required trainings, meetings and professional development activities.

5. Seeks out and attends relevant professional development conferences, seminars, workshops, and other activities related to role.

6. Participates in all Pre-Service, In-Service training, and professional development activities as required for the position.

Leadership & Teamwork

1. Builds cooperative goals and relationships of mutual trust internally and externally.

2. Collaborates with partner agencies to ensure effective referral, coordination of services and communication processes to support program and client needs.

3. Establish sound working relationships and cooperative arrangements with community groups and organizations to eliminate duplicative services and reduce barriers.

4. Adheres to the policies in the use of computer technology and all tele-communication devices.

Safety and Wellness

1. Actively promotes safety and accident prevention within the workplace.

2. Reports any unsafe conditions, incidents and/or accidents immediately.

Non-Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Performs additional duties as assigned.

2. Supports Housing and or Resource Advocacy needs when necessary.