Occupancy Specialist

Job Statement:

The Occupancy Specialist (OS) is a member of the Property Management Compliance team, responsible for processing Tax Credit, HOME, USDA RD & HUD paperwork to verify applicants/residents meet regulatory requirements of the properties. This individual is responsible for interviewing housing applicants or residents in the main office, at properties or by telephone, and preparing data for entry into Property Management software regarding Occupancy (Interim and Annual Re-certifications). The OS works independently and as part of a collaborative team to ensure CHT properties remain in compliance with all applicable regulations.

Essential Job Responsibilities:

Annual Recertification:

• Check Onesite monthly for recertifications.
• Send notices to residents requiring certification.
• Prepare individual files for each resident in need of recertification.
• Meet with tenants and obtains signatures on recertification paperwork.
• Regularly check outstanding third-party verification paperwork for return and follow up with agencies/individuals to ensure verifications are received in a timely manner.
• Process all Annual and Interim certifications in Onesite.
• Ensure all necessary documentation is in order.
• Regularly audits resident files to ensure accuracy and completeness.
• Ensure compliance with HUD, LIHTC, HOME, and RD regulations for all recertification and reporting requirements.
• Assist in Special Claims preparation, submission, and tracking.
• Coordinate with local housing authorities for residents who have a Section 8 voucher.
• Run reports from Onesite as requested.

Application Review

• Is part of the Application Review Team
• Review screened applications to determine approval or denial
• Follow up with Applications Dept. with any clarification that may be needed

Other General Duties:

• Adhere to all fair housing and local landlord and tenant laws and regulations.
• Demonstrate a commitment to equity and inclusion in all interactions.
• Answer applicant/resident questions regarding regulations.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Job Qualifications:

• Associates Degree or equivalent experience working in a professional office environment required.
• Proficiency using computers, Microsoft Office Suite, aptitude for learning new software products and standard office technology required.
• Positive attitude, strong work ethic and willingness to learn required.
• Must demonstrate a commitment to equity and inclusion.
• Knowledge of Section 8 NC/SR 811 and Federal, and State tenant laws and regulations strongly preferred.
• Current Tax Credit, HUD and RD Occupancy & Compliance Requirements Certifications or ability to obtain same within six months of employment required.
• Must be committed to CHT's membership based model of community controlled and permanently affordable housing.
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation required.
• Ability to pass a routine criminal background check required.

Competencies:

• Excellent attention to detail, customer service skills, ability to handle confidential information, organization and planning skills, and ability to relate to internal and external parties professionally.
• Strong written and verbal communication, self-motivation, verbal de-escalation, interpersonal, computer and technology skills.
• Contributes positively to professional and respectful office environment.

Physical and Mental abilities: The Occupancy Specialist must have the physical and mental abilities to perform the essential job duties listed above. Reasonable accommodation may be extended to help perform those duties. The job entails long periods of sitting at a desk. There will be prolonged periods of computer work. While performing the essential duties of this job the Compliance Specialist may have to use eyes, hands and fingers, walk, stand, reach, or lift up to 25 pounds.

Work Atmosphere:

Champlain Housing Trust is a non-profit, member-based organization. This individual must be committed to equity, inclusion, CHT's membership based model of community controlled and permanently affordable housing and must also be committed to delivering exceptional customer service and executing CHT's mission by focusing on our customers - listening attentively, identifying needs, and making their best effort to resolve issues or concerns. The work entails significant self motivation. Travel to rental sites and occasional travel to meetings and seminars will be required.

Employer Rights and Disclaimers:

This job description is not a contract for employment. It is a list of duties and expectations. It should not, however, be considered a complete list of expected duties. Duties may be added, dropped, or changed at any time.

The job qualifications may change at any time. Champlain Housing Trust may add, drop, or change any qualifications for the position in order to fit changes in the organization. This job description should not be interpreted as a complete list of job qualifications.

This document does not extend an offer for permanent or continuous employment. Champlain Housing Trust is an at-will employer.