Program Specialist

Way Finders is a 2024 Top Workplaces for Nonprofit organization, named as an employer of choice because our employees said so!  

At Way Finders, we are passionately invested in lifting up the region’s people, places, and systems. Though our team performs a wide variety of functions, we are united by our shared mission: to build and advocate for a thriving and equitable region; to improve the stability and economic mobility of families and individuals; and to develop and manage a robust range of safe, affordable housing options.

Interested in joining our team of dedicated professionals? Way Finders is currently seeking a Program Specialist in our Rental Assistance department. The Program Specialist supports our mission by providing a breadth and depth of knowledge on rental assistance programs, including compliance, program rules and regulations, and in the completion of applications.  The Program Specialist supports staff and management by providing 1:1 and group trainings, plus through additional administrative support as necessary.

Benefits include:  20 days of accrued paid time-off in year one | 15+ holidays annually | Health, dental, and vision insurance options FROM DAY ONE | Educational assistance | Medical Reimbursement Account | Dependent Care Account | 403(b) retirement plan with employer match | Life insurance | Short-term and long-term disability insurance | Transportation benefits | Employee Assistance Program | Annual staff picnic!

Wage starts between $21.50 and $24.25 per hour depending on equivalent qualifications. Interested applicants must submit a resume and cover letter; applications will be accepted until the position is filled. CORI.
 
The candidate will work fully onsite.

Responsibilities include:
•    Maximize client achievement by acting as an in-house expert and consultant to colleagues on the intricacies of all offered programs
•    Educate and advise staff on policies, procedures, regulations, community concerns, and issues; act as trainer/mentor in 1:1 and group settings
•    Educate and advise landlords, tenants, community groups, and stakeholders on policies, procedures, and regulations
•    Assist with the development of resources and trainings, updating as necessary; conduct trainings in both group and individual sessions
•    Assist in the review and preparation of tenant files for hearings and appeals, consulting with in-house legal counsel as necessary to ensure appropriate case management
•    Conduct fraud investigations as assigned and appropriate, preparing recommendations and obtaining supervisory approval
•    Ensure the accurate retention and reporting of data to funding sources
•    Act as liaison with other housing or social service agencies, authorities, civic associations, and stakeholders
•    Perform quality assurance audits as assigned, reporting on discrepancies in a timely manner
•    Monitor incoming visitors and documentation log for regular and proper use 
•    Conduct ongoing assessments of client participation to measure successes and areas for improvement; report findings to management
•    Provide direct advisement to clients as necessary and appropriate; conduct home visits and fieldwork as necessary
•    Provide indirect supervision and direction to team members in the performance of assigned duties and resolution of matters of a more complex nature
•    Attend trainings  to remain updated and expand knowledge of rules, guidelines, best practices, and compliance measures for all programs
•    Establish and maintain strong, collaborative relationships with internal staff (including across departments), owners, landlords, community groups, funding sources, and other housing related departments or agencies 
•    Proactively identify and inform manager/leadership of any issues that may adversely affect the department or organization

Requirements include:
•    2 years' equivalent experience in housing, social services, public administration, or a related role, with 1 year as a field specialist; a combination of experience plus an Associate degree may be a substitute
•    Bilingual (Spanish/English) written and verbal skills highly preferred, but not required
•    Demonstrated in-depth knowledge of myriad housing assistance programs with the ability to effective train/mentor others on rules, regulations, and compliance measures
•    Adept with the Microsoft Suite, databases, and comfort learning new technologies
•    Excellent organizational skills with a high degree of accuracy and attention to detail, plus the ability to reprioritize
•    Demonstrated ability to effectively train and impart knowledge in classroom and mentoring environment
•    Ability to effectively communicate (both written and verbal) and in group settings
•    Ability to analyze financial and other data, following guidelines to determine program eligibility
•    Ability to travel to perform position duties from multiple locations as necessary
•    Ability to attend trainings, and earn and maintain various certifications (training provided; six-month time limit to earn certs)
•    CORI

Way Finders is an Equal Opportunity Employer that seeks a diverse staff in order to reflect our community and those we serve. Qualified individuals from diverse backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply. This position is available to all without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, disability, age, gender or gender identity, sexual orientation, political affiliation, or veteran status. We provide reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals.