Housing Counselor

Job Description

Job Description

Job Title: Certified Housing Counselor
Reports To: Executive Director
Status: Full-Time
Location: Pittsburgh, PA
Salary Range: 50,000

Position Summary

The Certified Housing Counselor provides comprehensive housing counseling services to individuals and families seeking assistance with rental, pre-purchase, post-purchase, foreclosure prevention, and financial management. This role involves conducting client assessments, developing individualized action plans, educating clients on their housing rights and responsibilities, and ensuring compliance with HUD and/or PHFA requirements. The counselor plays a vital role in helping clients achieve housing stability and long-term financial wellness.

Key Responsibilities

1. Client Counseling & Support

• Conduct one-on-one and group counseling sessions for rental assistance, homeownership, foreclosure prevention, and financial literacy.

• Complete comprehensive client intake, including assessment of housing and financial situation.

• Develop, monitor, and document individualized action plans in coordination with the client.

• Provide resources and referrals to appropriate community services.

2. Compliance & Documentation

• Maintain up-to-date and accurate case files in the client management system (e.g., RX Office CMS).

• Ensure compliance with HUD, PHFA, and internal program guidelines.

• Prepare and submit reports, case notes, and billing documentation on time.

3. Education & Workshops

• Facilitate housing education workshops on topics such as budgeting, tenant rights, fair housing, the homebuying process, and foreclosure prevention.

• Prepare workshop materials, evaluations, and follow-up support as needed.

4. Outreach & Partnerships

• Build and maintain relationships with landlords, mortgage servicers, real estate professionals, and community organizations.

• Participate in outreach events to promote services and attract new clients.

5. Professional Development

• Maintain active HUD certification as a Housing Counselor.

• Attend trainings, conferences, and continuing education to stay current on housing policies, programs, and regulations.

Qualifications

Required:

• Current HUD Certified Housing Counselor designation.

• Minimum 2 years experience in housing counseling or social services.

• Strong understanding of HUD housing counseling protocols, Fair Housing laws, and local/state housing policies.

• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills.

• Experience using a client management system (e.g., RX Office, CounselorMax, Home Counselor Online).

• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and general technology use.

Preferred:

• Experience working with low- to moderate-income populations.

• Familiarity with PHFA, USDA, FHA, and other government programs.

Work Environment & Physical Demands

• Must be able to work in-person and/or hybrid as required.

• Occasional evening and weekend hours for workshops or community events.

• Must be able to lift up to 25 lbs. for materials and event setup.

WAVE is an Equal Opportunity Employer

We value lived experience and encourage individuals from all backgrounds, including those with personal experience in housing instability, to apply.