Housing Specialist

Internal

Job Title:

Occupancy Specialist

The Chelmsford Housing Authority (CHA) is mission-driven organization dedicated to providing safe, affordable housing and supportive services to the community. We are seeking an Occupancy Specialist to support our prospective and current tenants. This role will provide support for two LIHTC properties (116-unit LIHTC/HOME and an 18-unit LIHTC/HOME) and will serve as the main point of contact for applicants and residents when completing annual certifications.

This position is key to the successful operation of an all-affordable rental community managed by the Chelmsford Housing Authority. The Occupancy Specialist will focus heavily on gathering paperwork and financial information to determine eligibility for the Low-Income Tax Credit Housing program through the entire application process in accordance with the regulations of all funding and regulatory agencies. Throughout the work performed, the Occupancy Specialist must:

• Maintain the highest level of confidentiality and provide high quality customer service in an efficient and accurate manner.
• Respond to general requests for information, assisting in overall administrative functions in an organized and professional fashion.
• Provide general support to the Property Manager.

• Process initial and annual recertifications. Reviews applications for completeness upon receipt (via mail, fax, walk-in, etc.) following procedures set forth in the HUD Handbook.
• Notifies applicants regarding status (eligibility, missing documentation, disability, preference verification, emergency priorities, etc.)
• Notify residents of their impending recertifications using notices supplied by Property Management Software.
• Conduct certification interviews with residents.
• Review each certification to ensure that all checklist items are complete for Property Manager’s review and final determination.
• Send certification verification forms to the appropriate agencies (e.g., Social Security Administration, place of employment, welfare agency, Veterans Administration) relevant banks, and other organizations.
• Performs CORI and Credit Checks.
• Complete certification worksheet, which includes having the resident or applicant sign all applicable paperwork.
• Ensure all information is accurate and entered in the Property Management Software.
• Comply with agency policies regarding the proper treatment of Tax Credit and resident files.
• Ensure that files comply with the regulations of all funding/regulatory agencies, such as HOME and HIF, etc.
• Create folders for new applicants and files in appropriate location. Ensures the proper treatment of residents' personal/private information and maintaining such records in accordance with local, state and/or federal law.
• Provide instruction and guidance to prospective residents during certification process.
• Foster a positive, active and collaborative relationship with residents, communities and associated agencies.
• Work patiently, professionally and cooperatively with residents and staff to provide high quality customer service.

REQUIRED:

• High school diploma or equivalent
• 3-5 years' Tax Credit experience/with the recertification process and related regulations of affordable housing programs (Section 8 & LIHTC)
• Intermediate Microsoft Office skills and expertise with managing Excel spreadsheets
• Good communication and collaboration skills
• Organized and efficient

PREFERRED:

• TCS/C3P Certification - or willingness to pursue if hired

This is a fully onsite 37.5 hour a week position, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM with a 30-minute lunch.

For this full-time position you will be eligible for medical, dental and vision coverage, paid time off, state pension plan, life insurance and professional development opportunities.

The expected hiring range for this position is $55,000-$60,000 annually, depending on experience and qualifications.

The Chelmsford House Authority is committed to Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO). Applicants for employment shall not be discriminated against based upon their membership in a protected class.