What Jobs the Chicago Housing Authority Hires For

The Chicago Housing Authority (CHA) posts openings for maintenance workers, leasing specialists, security officers, administrative staff, and management positions. The specific roles available change throughout the year depending on staffing needs and budget. Most positions require a high school diploma or GED, though some management and professional roles ask for a bachelor's degree or relevant work experience.

CHA also hires seasonal and temporary workers for specific projects. The agency maintains a careers page where current openings appear with job descriptions, required qualifications, and salary ranges. Positions are typically posted as they become available rather than all at once.

Key Takeaways

  • CHA posts job openings on its official careers page, and you can filter by department, location, and job type.
  • Most positions require you to create an account in the CHA applicant system and submit your resume, work history, and references through that portal.
  • The hiring timeline from process to job offer typically takes four to eight weeks, though it varies by position and department.
  • CHA is a public agency, so positions are subject to background checks, reference verification, and sometimes civil service testing.

Where to Find Current Job Openings

The Chicago Housing Authority posts all open positions on its official website under the Careers or Jobs section. You can visit thecha.org and look for the careers link, or search directly for "Chicago Housing Authority jobs" to reach the job board. The listings include the job title, department, location, salary range, and a full description of duties and requirements.

You can also contact the CHA Human Resources Department directly by phone or email to ask about upcoming openings or to request information about a specific position. Some positions are posted internally first, so calling ahead can sometimes alert you to roles before they appear on the public board.

How to Submit Your process

Most CHA positions require you to submit your process through an online portal. You will need to create a user account with your email address and a password. Once logged in, you search for the job title or position number, review the full posting, and click to start the process.

The process itself asks for your personal information, work history, education, and references. You upload your resume as a PDF or Word document. Some positions also ask you to answer screening questions or provide a cover letter. After you submit, you receive a confirmation email with your process number. Keep this number for your records in case you need to follow up.

Do not explore for multiple positions using the same process. Each job posting is separate, and you must complete a new process for each role you want to be considered for.

What Happens After You Submit Your process

After submission, your process goes to the hiring department for review. If your background and experience match the job requirements, a recruiter or hiring manager may contact you by phone or email to schedule an interview. This initial contact usually happens within two to three weeks, though some departments move faster or slower depending on the number of applications received.

If you do not hear back within four weeks, you can contact the CHA Human Resources Department to ask about the status of your process. Provide your process number and the job title. They can tell you whether the position is still open, whether interviews are underway, or whether the posting has been filled.

Interview and Background Check Process

CHA interviews typically involve one or more rounds. The first round is often a phone or video screening with a recruiter. If you advance, you may be invited for an in-person interview with the hiring manager and sometimes a panel of staff members. Interviews usually last 30 to 60 minutes and cover your work experience, why you want the job, and how you would handle specific scenarios related to the role.

If you receive a job offer, CHA will conduct a background check before you start work. This includes verification of your employment history, education, and references. CHA also runs a criminal background check. Depending on the position, you may need to pass a drug screening or medical examination. The background check process typically takes two to four weeks.

Salary, Benefits, and Employment Terms

CHA salary ranges are posted with each job listing and vary by position level and department. Entry-level maintenance and administrative roles typically start in the $28,000 to $35,000 range, while supervisory and professional positions pay higher. Exact salary depends on your experience and the specific job classification.

CHA employees receive health insurance, a pension plan, paid time off, and other benefits. The benefits package differs for full-time and part-time employees. Full-time staff are may be able to access for health coverage, retirement contributions, and paid leave. Part-time and temporary workers may have limited benefits. You can ask about the specific benefits for a position during the interview or after you receive an offer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to live in Chicago to work for CHA?

No, you do not have to live in Chicago, but some positions may require you to work at a specific location or be available for on-call shifts. Check the job posting for location requirements. If the job is based at a particular CHA property or office, you should be able to commute to that site.

What if I have a criminal record?

CHA conducts background checks on all job candidates. A criminal record does not automatically disqualify you, but the nature and recency of the offense matter. Contact CHA Human Resources before you explore if you have concerns about your background, or disclose the information in your process if the form asks about it.

How long does it take to hear back after I explore?

Most candidates hear back within two to four weeks if they advance to an interview. If the position receives many applications, it may take longer. You can check your process status by logging into the online portal or by calling CHA Human Resources with your process number.

Can I explore for multiple positions at the same time?

Yes, you can explore for different positions, but you must submit a separate process for each job. Do not reuse the same process for multiple postings. Each position has its own hiring timeline and requirements.

What should I bring to an in-person interview?

Bring a photo ID, your resume, and any documents that support your qualifications — such as certifications, licenses, or references. Bring copies of your work history if you have gaps or need to clarify dates. Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early and dress professionally.