Private Sector Housing Officer

Our client is currently looking to recruit a Private Sector Housing Officer on an initial 3 month temporary basis

Private Sector Housing Officer

Essex - Hybrid

Rate: £33.00-£35.00 per hour (umbrella)

We are currently recruiting for an experienced Private Sector Housing Officer to join a local authority housing service on an initial 3-month temporary contract.

This is an excellent opportunity for a housing professional with experience in private rented sector procurement, homelessness prevention, lettings or tenancy management.

The role offers flexibility to work 4 or 5 days per week, with an expectation to work from the Council offices 1-2 days per week.

About the Role

As a Private Rented Sector Officer, you will help prevent and relieve homelessness by sourcing suitable private rented accommodation for households referred through Housing Services. You will be responsible for identifying available properties, developing relationships with landlords and letting agents, negotiating tenancy arrangements and supporting residents through the process of securing and moving into accommodation. You will work closely with colleagues across the housing service to achieve successful and sustainable placements.

Key Responsibilities

• Source and secure suitable private rented accommodation for households.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with landlords and letting agents.
• Promote the benefits of working with the Council's PRS Scheme.
• Negotiate tenancy terms and arrangements.
• Manage a caseload of households seeking private rented accommodation.
• Assess household needs and match applicants to suitable properties.
• Arrange and coordinate property viewings.
• Provide advice on private renting, tenancy responsibilities and housing options.
• Support residents with move-in arrangements and required documentation.
• Liaise with Housing Officers, homelessness prevention colleagues and external agencies.
• Maintain accurate case records and property information.
• Monitor placements and tenancy outcomes.
• Work towards the target of placing at least one household into private rented accommodation each week.
• Ensure all work complies with relevant housing legislation, policies and procedures.

You will have:

• Experience in housing, homelessness prevention, tenancy management, lettings, estate agency or a similar role.
• Experience working with landlords, letting agents, customers and partner organisations.
• Experience managing a caseload and working to performance targets.
• Good knowledge of the Private Rented Sector and housing options.
• An understanding of homelessness legislation and tenancy management principles.
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills.
• Strong relationship-building and customer service skills.
• Good organisational and time-management abilities.
• The ability to manage competing priorities and work under pressure.
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Good IT skills, including Microsoft Office and housing management systems.

If you are an experienced Private Rented Sector or Housing Officer looking for an immediate temporary opportunity, we would love to hear from you.