Community Housing Financial Officer

**Competition #**: 44343
**Department**: Municipal Affairs and Housing
**Location**: HALIFAX
**Type of Employment**: Permanent
**Union Status**: NSGEU - NSPG
**Closing Date**: 19-Nov-24 (Applications are accepted until 11:59 PM Atlantic Time)
About Us
The Department of Municipal Affairs and Housing is dedicated to working with municipalities to build healthy, vibrant, and safe communities throughout Nova Scotia. Municipal Affairs provides programs, grants, and funding opportunities for municipalities and community groups. The Department also provides services and guidance to municipalities in many areas including land use planning, budget planning and finance, infrastructure development, policy and program development, and support for economic development through the management of the Regional Enterprise Network program.
The Department of Municipal Affairs and Housing is also responsible for ensuring the availability of safe, suitable, and affordable housing for all Nova Scotians. Our work involves making strategic investments, leveraging new funding, and building on critical partnerships to help further position ourselves to meet current and future housing challenges.
About Our Opportunity
Join our team and make a meaningful impact in community housing administration. As a member of our team, you will work under the general supervision of the Community Housing Specialist to deliver community housing programs. Responsibilities include determining program eligibility, monitoring compliance with operating agreements, and providing innovative solutions to complex housing issues. You will be responsible for effective case management and workload management to determine applicant eligibility in a timely manner. You have an understanding of the challenges faced by the community housing sector and will support proponents in addressing challenges through progressive program/initiative implementation.
This position offers a unique chance to be part of positive change and to help shape the future of housing in Nova Scotia.
Primary Accountabilities
Your expertise will be invaluable in assisting with the implementation of progressive housing programs and initiatives. Key accountabilities include:
Assessing applicant eligibility for housing programs (including grant, loan, or mortgage recommendations).
Administering community and social housing programs, including disbursement of program funds and case management through the Integrated Case Management (ICM) system.
Calculating operating subsidies based on operating agreements for social and community housing organizations.
Identifying and providing specialized care for Projects in Difficulty (PIDs) in collaboration with regional office staff.
Coordinating inspections of social housing units, monitoring compliance with Community Housing agreements, and analyzing co-operative and non-profit housing projects.
Responding to inquiries from regional staff, housing organizations, and partners, and addressing project-related concerns.
Assisting in preparing various documents, including Ministerial replies, briefing notes, and information notes.
Organizing and attending public meetings, seminars, conferences, and educational sessions related to housing programs and services.
Qualifications and Experience
You have completed a bachelor's degree in a related discipline plus a minimum of one (1) year of related experience in finance/ policy/ or program delivery.
To excel in this role, you will need to have a deep understanding of the multifaceted challenges faced by the community housing sector. In addition, you have proficiency and demonstrated capabilities in:
financial analysis, business and strategic planning, and report writing.
Microsoft Office Suite and computer literacy.
Critical thinking, and analytical skills along with problem-solving, risk assessment and consultation skills.
Excellent interpersonal skills, time management skills and the ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing.
Working independently and collaboratively as part of a team.
Setting priorities, meeting deadlines, and managing multiple projects.
**Though not required, it is considered an asset if you have**:
Knowledge of the construction industry.
Experience in retail/small business/commercial lending.
Familiarity with government processes and government structure.
Knowledge of evaluation and research methodologies, data analysis methods, and data interpretation.
We will assess the above qualifications and competencies using one or more of the following tools: written examination, standardized tests, oral presentations, interview(s), and reference checks.
Equivalency
We recognize equivalent combinations of training, education, and experience, providing opportunities for individuals with diverse backgrounds to contribute their skills and expertise. Equivalencies include, but are not limited to:
A completed 2-year diploma and three (3) years of related experience.
A completed related master's