Housing Counselor

JOB SUMMARYUnder the supervision of the Program Director and in accordance with the direction and mission of District 7 HRDC, the Housing Counselor is delegated the responsibility for coordinating and conducting HUD compliant Housing Counseling and Education. This includes pre-purchase, post-purchase and foreclosure prevention counseling services along with HUD certified Homebuyer Education classes and Rental Education classes.ESSENTIAL DUTIESThe requirements listed, are representative of the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to perform the essential functions of the job.  To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to carry out each task satisfactorily and perform other duties as assigned.  

• Provide HUD compliant pre-purchase, post-purchase and foreclosure prevention counseling to clients in person and with alternative formats that are mutually acceptable.
• Schedule, coordinate, and facilitate HUD certified First Time Homebuyer Education classes and Rent Strong tenant classes.
• Develop and maintain relevant curriculum and training materials for each category of education.
• Develop and maintain relationships with community and business partners. Recruit and manage volunteers, who are experts in their fields to act as guest presenters, consult on curriculum.
• Collect and input client information correctly and timely using appropriate data tracking system. Maintain complete, secure information files. Generate accurate reports as required, including monthly, quarterly and annual activities.
• Utilize client pre and post surveys to evaluate effectiveness of education programs and implement any necessary improvements.
• Create an action plan that identifies strategies and tasks that will aid the client to achieve their housing goal.
• Represent The Home Center and HRDC7, in a consistent professional manner at workshops, classes, community presentations and other events.
• Assist in the overall mission of the Home Center and HRDC7 programs, working in a team environment to effectively complete other duties as assigned.

Additional Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Knowledge in fields of mortgage lending, real estate and financial capabilities is preferred.
• Ability to communicate effectively to a group, in a classroom or professional setting.
• Understand and adhere to the National Industry Standards for Homeownership Education and Counseling code of ethics.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including some evenings and weekends.
• Requires excellent time-management and ability to work independently in a team environment.
• Effectively communicates on all platforms.
• Demonstrates dependability and punctuality.
• Adheres to a consistent work schedule.
  • Demonstrates professionalism in the workplace.
  • Maintains professional boundaries with participants;
  • Must have the ability to work with low income and disadvantaged people by modeling an   unbiased, non-judgmental attitude.
  • Demonstrates positive and appropriate interactions with coworkers and management.
  • Contributes to a harmonious and productive work environment.
  • Must be a team player to ensure overall program success.

• Nurtures, builds, and mentors employees to build a cohesive team.

• Brings creative suggestions and potential solutions to direct supervisor regarding work.  

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Education and Experience: Bachelor’s degree in Human Services or related field, or High School Diploma or GED and at least four (4) year’s experience in a related human services field, or equivalent combination of education and experience to fully meet the required minimum job qualifications.Licenses and/or Certifications:

• Possess the ability to become a HUD certified Housing Counselor within ninety days of  employment.
• Must also possess the ability to become HUD certified in Homebuyer Education within six months of employment and maintain NCHEC certification.
• Must possess a valid Montana Driver’s License, proof of personal automobile insurance and must meet insurability requirements for agency automobile insurance policy.