Housing Specialist Lead

Job DetailsJob Location: Colorado Springs, CO 80903Position Type: Full TimeSalary Range: $25.50 - $27.45 HourlyClassification:                                               Housing Specialist Lead HCV

FLSA Status:             Non-Exempt

Definition:

Summary / Definition:

The Housing Specialist Lead plays a key role in supporting the Department Head with the administration of the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Program and related rental assistance programs. This position helps ensure the day-to-day operations of the department run smoothly by directly supervising an assigned team of Housing Specialists and Administrative staff while taking on assignments that allow leadership to focus on strategic oversight and departmental planning.

Typical duties carried out daily include supervising assigned staff, overseeing workloads, training, coaching, scheduling, approving timecards and leave requests, ensuring adequate staffing coverage, and monitoring temporary employee performance when assigned. The Lead serves as the primary point of contact for staff questions and provides day-to-day operational direction and support. This position will ensure that required forms, packets, and supplies are properly maintained, with timely reordering as needed to support program operations.

This role is a resource for the team and helps maintain program compliance by assisting with file reviews, quality control checks, and ongoing staff training. The Housing Specialist Lead helps promote consistency and accuracy across the department, working closely with staff to support program success. Under supervisor direction and guidance, the Lead is responsible for delegating tasks effectively, considering individual strengths and workloads to ensure efficient workflow. The Lead will track team performance and report on agreed upon team metrics, ensuring projects and tasks stay on schedule and deliverables are met. The Lead will create channels for feedback, ensuring that information flows smoothly with the team and between the team and management.

The Lead also serves as a point of contact for third-party agencies, vendors, and contractors, helping coordinate external partnerships and ensuring they align with program goals. This role offers the opportunity to take initiative, build strong working relationships, and contribute meaningfully to the department's overall effectiveness.

Supervision Received and Exercised

 


Receives general direction from senior management.
Functions with a high level of autonomy and expertise.
Directly supervises assigned Housing Specialists and Administrative staff. 
Responsible for assigning work, monitoring workloads, approving employee timecards and leave requests, providing training and coaching, completing performance evaluations, and addressing routine performance concerns in accordance with agency policy.
Exercises independent judgment in the day-to-day operation of the assigned team while keeping the Department Head informed of significant operational or personnel issues.





Essential Duties and Responsibilities


Administer a reduced caseload of participating households, performing all processes including the review of applications and recertifications for HCV and non-voucher programs while ensuring compliance with HUD regulations and Housing Authority policies.
Participate in and oversee audits for voucher and non-voucher programs, including the collection, review, authorization, and submission of audit data.
Provide quality control of staff performance in areas of processes, documentation, and electronic records in agency systems.
Provide training, mentorship, and case support for Housing Specialists and Administrative Clerks.
Directly supervise assigned staff by providing daily guidance, assigning work, monitoring productivity, conducting one-on-one coaching, and supporting employee development.
Approve employee timecards, leave requests, and work schedules in accordance with agency policy.
Complete employee performance evaluations, provide ongoing coaching and feedback, and assist with corrective action, when necessary, in coordination with the Department Head.
Participates in the recruitment and selection of staff; screens resumes, participates in interviews, and recommends qualified candidates to the hiring manager.
Seamlessly transition new direct reports into their roles by equipping them with the knowledge, resources, and supports required through department orientation and team integration.
Serve as the point of contact for third-party consultants or contractors, providing oversight and process-based guidance to ensure accurate and compliant program implementation.
Submit accurate PIC reporting and submissions to HUD when assigned.
Monitor waiting lists in coordination with intake staff.
Collaborate with other departments and external agencies to ensure program effectiveness.
Provide day-to-day oversight of front desk operations, including monitoring performance, coordinating coverage, and serving as the point of contact for reporting absences or staffing needs.
Provide backup coverage for Housing Specialists and the Department Supervisor.
Perform other related duties as assigned.

QualificationsRequired Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Knowledge of:


Federal, state, and local housing laws, fair housing practices and regulations.
Housing Quality Standards (HQS) and unit inspection processes.
Basic knowledge of community resources and supportive services.
Reporting systems (e.g., HUD, PIC, FV systems) and data accuracy requirements.


Ability to:


Interpret and apply complex program regulations into clear actionable guidelines the team can easily understand and implement.
Supervise and coordinate assigned programs, services, and activities
Calculate income and rent accurately.
Resolve conflicts and handle sensitive situations with professionalism; communicate performance issues to the supervisor so they are addressed fairly and effectively
Research and analyze eligibility data and prepare detailed reports.
Communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
Maintain organized and accurate program records.
Work independently, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines.
Collaborate effectively with a wide range of internal and external stakeholders.
Represent the agency with professionalism in all public-facing interactions.





Minimum Qualifications


Education: Bachelor’s degree in social work, public administration, behavioral science, or a related field.


-OR-


Experience: Five (5) years of progressive experience in housing programs, social services, or related fields.  
One year of administrative and/or lead supervisory experience. 


 




Preferred Qualifications


Three (3) years of experience in property management, housing authority operations, or case management.
Experience supporting or leading audits or quality control activities.
Three (3) years of supervisory experience preferred.





Licenses and Certifications


Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Certification from an accredited source is required at the time of hire.





Working Conditions

Environmental:
Office and field settings; may require local travel; exposure to varying weather, traffic, and occasional interactions with distressed or confrontational clients.

Physical:
Ability to sit, stand, walk, bend, and use a computer for extended periods. Occasional lifting of files or materials may be required.