Job Summary
The City of Decatur is seeking a Housing Rehabilitation Specialist to help improve housing conditions and support neighborhood revitalization throughout the community. If you have experience in construction, project management, property inspection, code enforcement, or a related field, this is an opportunity to apply your skills to projects that create lasting community impact.
In this role, you'll manage residential rehabilitation projects, work directly with homeowners and contractors, and help administer grant-funded housing programs. The results of your work will be visible in neighborhoods across Decatur.
This is a full-time, benefited position with a one-year probationary period. Working hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Key Responsibilities
Housing Rehabilitation Project Management
• Conduct property inspections and document housing deficiencies after application submission
• Develop scopes of work, cost estimates, bid specifications, and all required project documentation
• Coordinate bidding processes and make contractor selection recommendations to the Grants Manager
• Monitor rehabilitation projects to ensure quality workmanship, code compliance, and timely completion
• Review contractor performance and recommend change orders and project modifications as needed
Program Administration & Compliance
• Assist with the administration, implementation, monitoring, and compliance of housing rehabilitation, neighborhood revitalization, and grant-funded programs
• Verify contractor qualifications and confirm compliance with all program requirements
• Maintain complete project records and assist with program reporting and documentation
Community Outreach & Neighborhood Revitalization
• Serve as liaison between homeowners, contractors, community organizations, and City staff
• Conduct informational meetings and educate residents on rehabilitation programs and eligibility requirements
• Promote self-help programs and private responsibility for neighborhood maintenance and revitalization
Additional Support
• Participate in the planning, development, and implementation of housing and neighborhood revitalization programs
• Assist staff on special projects and departmental initiatives as assigned
Qualifications & Preferred Skills
Education & Experience
• High school diploma or equivalent
• Training and/or experience in construction, project management, housing rehabilitation, property maintenance, lead abatement, or a related field
• Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered
Technical Knowledge
• Thorough knowledge of building construction methods, property maintenance practices, and real estate principles
• Thorough knowledge of municipal codes, ordinances, and housing regulations
• Knowledge of federal, state, and local housing, labor, wage, and equal opportunity requirements
• Ability to interpret construction-related plans, specifications, and project documents
Skills & Abilities
• Strong project coordination, organizational, and documentation skills
• Ability to prepare accurate cost estimates and written scopes of work
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to establish effective working relationships with homeowners, contractors, community partners, and City staff
• Proficiency with computers, basic accounting, and mathematical calculations
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously
Licenses & Certifications
• Valid Illinois driver’s license required
• Must obtain Lead Worker Certification, Lead Supervisor Certification, and Illinois Licensed Lead Supervisor status within six months of employment (City supports candidates in meeting this requirement)
• Must obtain Asbestos Surveying Certification within one year of employment if not already certified
Benefits
The City offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:
✔ Health, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance
✔ 14.5 paid holidays, including two flex days
✔ Generous vacation and sick leave
✔ Marathon Health Center with free services and many free prescriptions for employees and dependents
✔ Defined-benefit pension through IMRF
To Apply
This is your opportunity to bring real, practical skills to a role where the impact is tangible — improved homes, stronger neighborhoods, and a community you can be proud of. We offer a stable, team-oriented environment where your technical expertise is valued, and your contributions make a measurable difference every day.
Don’t wait — apply by July 5, 2026 at: https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/decaturil/jobs/5374831
Be sure to include all requested information; incomplete applications will be rejected. You may upload a resume to autofill sections of the application.
