Job Description

GRANT-FUNDED ROLE DISCLOSURE This appointment is supported by the HomeGrown Grant Program for a specified period of one to three years. Although Neighborhood Housing Services (NHS) aims for this position to persist throughout the grant term, employment remains strictly at-will. Maintaining this role is dependent upon the continued availability of grant resources.

PRIMARY JOB OBJECTIVE The Public Engagement Specialist acts as the lead liaison for community questions regarding the HomeGrown Grant Program. This individual guarantees that all stakeholders and residents receive uniform and precise data. The successful applicant will be service-driven, exceptionally structured, and capable of professional interaction with a broad range of audiences.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES Handling Public Inquiries

Act as the initial representative for persons requesting details on the HomeGrown Grant Program.
Address electronic mail, telephone messages, and general questions within a 48 to 72-hour window.
Deliver reliable updates on applicant qualifications, submission procedures, schedules, and required paperwork.
Log all interactions within designated NHS databases and keep meticulous documentation of all outreach.
Perform preliminary file assessments (soft underwriting) prior to transferring cases for official financial review. Community Outreach & Interaction
Articulate program rules clearly and guide residents toward supplementary support services when required.
Portray the HomeGrown Program with high levels of professionalism and cultural awareness.
Work alongside internal departments to maintain a unified public voice.
Support marketing initiatives, public forums, and the creation of community-facing documentation. Operational Coordination
Detect recurring topics and common questions originating from the public.
Propose updates for digital platforms, instructional guides, and external messaging.
Track the quantity of incoming requests and report findings to program management.
Assist with the program’s general administrative and clerical functions as required.

SALARY & ADVANTAGES: $25/hour

Medical, dental, and vision coverage
Accrued leave
A collaborative culture focused on delivering premier client support.

CANDIDATE REQUIREMENTS Academic Background

Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, Communications, Social Sciences, or a related discipline; or an equivalent combination of professional history. Professional Background
Two to three years of background in community relations, client services, or program administration. Key Abilities
Superior oral and written messaging capabilities.
Capacity to handle significant workloads while adhering to strict deadlines.
High level of precision and systematic planning skills.
Proven ability to interact effectively across diverse cultural landscapes.
Technical Literacy: Expert use of Microsoft Office and experience with Salesforce or similar CRM platforms (highly valued).

CORE COMPETENCIES Prospective employees should exhibit the following traits:

Focus on the Client
Expert Communication
Conflict Resolution
Prioritization Skills
Flexibility
Group Cooperation

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS The physical tasks mentioned are standard for this position. Adjustments can be made to assist individuals with disabilities in fulfilling these core duties.

Constant verbal interaction and listening.
Regular periods of sitting, standing, walking, and manual dexterity.
Occasional lifting or shifting of items weighing up to 25 pounds.

OFFICE SETTING This role merges traditional office tasks, digital correspondence, and periodic neighborhood-based activities. Occasional work during weekends or evenings may be necessary for public functions.

OFFICE ATTENDANCE POLICY HomeGrown Program personnel must operate on-site for the full work week. This role does not support remote or hybrid work. Staff must be physically present in the office for all shifts and internal sessions.

NHS’ DEDICATION TO INCLUSIVITY AND EQUITY NHS of Chicago is firmly committed to maintaining a diverse and equitable workforce that mirrors the neighborhoods we champion. We recognize that varied backgrounds and viewpoints improve our impact. NHS ensures equal opportunity for all staff and candidates regardless of race, age, identity, or any protected status.

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Job Summary

The Public Engagement Specialist serves as the essential link between the HomeGrown Grant Program and the Chicago community. You will manage high-volume inquiries, perform soft underwriting, and provide eligibility guidance. This role requires in-office presence and focuses on providing accurate, professional, and culturally competent support to diverse populations.

FAQs

Is this a permanent position? This is a grant-funded role with an expected term of 1–3 years, contingent upon ongoing funding.

Can I work from home? No, this position requires full-time in-office work with no remote options available.

What is the required response time for inquiries? The specialist is expected to respond to all calls and emails within 2–3 business days.

Does this role involve financial tasks? Yes, you will perform “soft underwriting” on files before they are sent to the formal Underwriting department.

What are the education requirements? A Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field like Communications or Public Administration is required, or equivalent experience.

Expert Analysis

This role is a critical frontline position within the Chicago housing ecosystem. Given that 44% of Chicago’s population is Rent-Burdened (spending over 30% of income on housing), specialists in grant programs like HomeGrown are essential for resource distribution. Success requires balancing administrative precision with high-level empathy for diverse urban stakeholders.

Location & Logistics Guide

The position is based in Chicago, a city with 77 distinct community areas. Since the role requires full-time office presence, commuting via CTA or Metra is common. Activities are primarily office-based but include outreach in various neighborhoods.

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Career Path

Working for a high-impact nonprofit like NHS of Chicago offers a trajectory into Program Management, Community Development Leadership, or Public Policy. Experience in “soft underwriting” and CRM management makes this a strong stepping stone for roles in urban planning, government relations, or financial counseling in the nonprofit sector.

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