Housing and Financial Counselor

Description

About

Seeking to put God’s love into action, Greater Des Moines Habitat for Humanity (GDM Habitat) brings people together to build homes, communities, and hope. We strive to make affordable housing accessible to everyone and create a positive impact on the lives of families in need.

Position Summary

As a Housing and Financial Counselor, you will work with first-time homebuyers by providing personalized housing counseling and financial education. Our counselors guide individuals through the complexities of the home-buying process, fostering financial stability and homeownership readiness.

Core Responsibilities:

• Customer Service Excellence: Provide compassionate and objective assistance to a diverse clientele, treating everyone with dignity and respect.
• Program Pathways Navigation: Serve as the initial point of contact for prospective homebuyers, conducting comprehensive assessments and offering tailored guidance on Habitat’s services and partner referrals.
• Housing Counseling Expertise: Engage clients in detailed discussions on the home buying journey, financial management, goal setting, and essential tools for achieving homeownership.
• Financial Education Leadership: Facilitate engaging Financial Literacy classes, updating materials, delivering presentations, and organizing interactive learning activities.
• Area Expertise Development: Stay informed on homeownership and personal finance trends through continuous learning, certifications, and training opportunities provided by Habitat.
• Data Management: Ensure accurate collection, storage, and reporting of client-related program data in compliance with Habitat and HUD requirements.
• Technology Proficiency: Navigate Habitat’s software ecosystem, client management systems, and third-party web services confidently and effectively.
• Community Ambassadorship: Represent Habitat at various events, community coalitions, and professional conferences to advocate for our mission and initiatives.
• Flexibility and Team Support: Assist the Habitat team with diverse tasks as needed, demonstrating adaptability and collaboration.
• Experience working with third-party interpreters.

Requirements

• 1-2 years of relevant experience in social work, personal finance, or related fields, or a college degree in a relevant discipline.
• HUD Counseling Certification OR willingness to obtain certification within 3-6 months of hire.
• Commitment to serving historically excluded populations with empathy and dedication.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong organizational abilities with keen attention to detail.
• Proficiency in mathematical calculations and computer applications including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Salesforce, and others.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a diverse team environment.
• Availability to work a Tuesday-Saturday schedule, including occasional evenings.
• Successful completion of a criminal background check.

Preferences:

Special consideration is given for candidates with any combination of the following:

• Bilingual proficiency.
• Experience working in diverse low-moderate income communities.
• Background in Social Work, Mortgage Banking, Real Estate, Education, or non-profit sectors.

Job Competencies:

Demonstrate alignment with Greater Des Moines Habitat for Humanity’s Mission and Values:

Mission: Seeking to put God’s love into action, Greater Des Moines Habitat for Humanity brings people together to build homes, communities, and hope.

Values:

• Build Solutions
• Build a Safety Mindset
• Build Faith and Compassion
• Build as Stewards
• Build with Heart

Join us in making a tangible difference in the lives of individuals and communities. Apply now to be part of our mission-driven team!