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 buildingParticipate in outreach events and community resource fairs to promote housing servicesCollaborate with local partners, landlords, and agencies to support client success and resource navigationCompliance & Documentation
Maintain accurate and timely client files in database or other HUD-compliant systemsTrack services, outcomes, and deliverables in accordance with HUD, IHDA, and other funder requirementsAssist with data collection and reporting for grant compliance and program evaluationUphold all confidentiality and data protection policiesProgram Development & Continuous Learning
Stay current on HUD regulations, IHDA policies, and relevant housing laws and programsAttend required training and continuing education (minimum of 30 hours every 2-3 years)Participate in Housing Action Illinois training, networking, and professional development opportunitiesContribute to program planning, outreach strategy, and quality improvement initiativesMINIMIUM QUALIFICATIONS
Bachelor's degree in human services, social work, urban planning, finance, or related fieldHUD Housing Counselor CertificationFluent in reading, writing and speaking in Spanish and EnglishMinimum of 2 years of experience in housing counseling, social services, financial coaching, or related fieldMust be able to pass a criminal background checkMust have a valid driver's license and reliable transportationKNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
Knowledge of HUD Housing Counseling requirements, allowable services, and reporting standardsStrong interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey information clearly and compassionately across diverse audiencesComprehensive 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 documentationKnowledge of credit, budgeting, debt reduction, and financial empowerment strategiesProficiency with Microsoft Office and housing counseling software (e.g., mPact Pro)Ability to lead workshops and outreach events on housing and financial topicsProfessionalism in managing competing priorities and maintaining composure during high-pressure or fast-paced situationsUnderstanding of confidentiality protocols and secure client data handlingAbility to provide services through a strength-based, client-centered and equity-focused lensAbility to work independently and cooperatively within a team environmentPHYSICAL AND WORK ENVIRONMENT REQUIREMENTS
Regular travel to partner agencies and a second site in KankakeeAbility to sit, stand, or walk for extended periodsMay involve occasional evening or weekend work depending on client needs and eventsBenefits
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
ExcellenceTrust through integrityWelcoming environment through empathy and respect for allBelief in the potential of each individualAdvocacy for and with the communityThe power of a diverse local community