JOB TITLE: Housing Counselor

PROGRAM: Housing Advocacy (HAP)

REPORTS TO: Housing Advocacy Program Manager

EMPLOYMENT STATUS: Full-time

FLSA CLASSIFICATION: Non-Exempt

WORK SCHEDULE: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM

HOURLY RATE: $25.20

POSITION SUMMARY

The HUD-Certified Housing Counselor provides direct, client-centered housing counseling services to low- and moderate-income individuals and families. This role supports clients in achieving stable housing, financial wellness, and long-term housing goals through education, individual counseling, and advocacy. Services may include rental counseling, pre-purchase counseling, foreclosure prevention, financial coaching, and housing workshops, in accordance with HUD and Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) requirements.

ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES AND KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Direct Client Services

Conduct intake assessments to determine client housing needs, goals, and barriers
Provide individualized counseling on rental, pre-purchase, foreclosure prevention, and financial capability topics
Develop action plans and support clients in implementing strategies to reach housing stability
Review and explain credit reports, assist with budgeting, and recommend debt reduction strategies

Group Education & Outreach

Facilitate group workshops such as first-time homebuyer education, tenant rights, eviction prevention, and credit building
Participate in outreach events and community resource fairs to promote housing services
Collaborate with local partners, landlords, and agencies to support client success and resource navigation

Compliance & Documentation

Maintain accurate and timely client files in database or other HUD-compliant systems
Track services, outcomes, and deliverables in accordance with HUD, IHDA, and other funder requirements
Assist with data collection and reporting for grant compliance and program evaluation
Uphold all confidentiality and data protection policies

Program Development & Continuous Learning

Stay current on HUD regulations, IHDA policies, and relevant housing laws and programs
Attend required training and continuing education (minimum of 30 hours every 2–3 years)
Participate in Housing Action Illinois training, networking, and professional development opportunities
Contribute to program planning, outreach strategy, and quality improvement initiatives

MINIMIUM QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor’s degree in human services, social work, urban planning, finance, or related field
HUD Housing Counselor Certification
Fluent in reading, writing and speaking in Spanish and English
Minimum of 2 years of experience in housing counseling, social services, financial coaching, or related field
Must be able to pass a criminal background check
Must have a valid driver’s license and reliable transportation

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

Knowledge of HUD Housing Counseling requirements, allowable services, and reporting standards
Strong interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey information clearly and compassionately across diverse audiences
Comprehensive knowledge of housing rights, credit and lending practices, and the Illinois housing landscape—including rental laws, tenant-landlord protections, mortgage processes, foreclosure prevention, and fair housing regulations.
Ability to assess needs, create action plans, and maintain accurate, timely documentation
Knowledge of credit, budgeting, debt reduction, and financial empowerment strategies
Proficiency with Microsoft Office and housing counseling software (e.g., mPact Pro)
Ability to lead workshops and outreach events on housing and financial topics
Professionalism in managing competing priorities and maintaining composure during high-pressure or fast-paced situations
Understanding of confidentiality protocols and secure client data handling
Ability to provide services through a strength-based, client-centered and equity-focused lens
Ability to work independently and cooperatively within a team environment

PHYSICAL AND WORK ENVIRONMENT REQUIREMENTS

Regular travel to partner agencies and a second site in Kankakee
Ability to sit, stand, or walk for extended periods
May involve occasional evening or weekend work depending on client needs and events

Benefits
Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
401
Paid time off

Compensation: $25.20 per hour

History

The Spanish Community Center (SCC) has a special place in Will County’s history as an example of what a small group of committed individuals can do to make a difference.

Over 50 years ago, the Adler, Maher, and Hernandez personally responded to the needs of the migrant community in Joliet by founding the SCC out of a house located at 205 Herkimer St, before relocating to its current location in the early 1980's.

Today, the SCC stays true to its mission of serving as Will County’s only bilingual one-stop shop of social and educational services. Although originally focused on Spanish-speaking peoples, we proudly serve individuals of all backgrounds.

Our Mission
The Spanish Community Center helps improve the life for Latinos, immigrants, and low income people through educational and social services.

Our Vision
The Spanish Community Center is a bridge to the well-being of all members in an inclusive and engaged community.

Our Values