AH Associate

Position Summary

The Affordable Housing Associate (Mentor Program) is an entry-level, training-focused position designed for individuals interested in beginning a career in the affordable housing industry. Associates participate in a structured mentorship program emphasizing hands-on experience in Occupancy and Compliance.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with the intake, eligibility verification, and maintenance of applicant waitlists.
• Learn key principles of LIHTC and HUD compliance through supervised tasks and structured E-learning (e.g., Getting Started: Introduction to LIHTC).
• Help organize and maintain resident files to meet regulatory and company standards.
• Observe and support leasing and compliance processes, including interviews, certifications, and audits.
• Aid in preparing compliance documentation for review by funding agencies.

Professional Development & Workplace Skills

• Attend weekly mentorship sessions and progress reviews with program supervisors.
• Uphold RHF’s values, ethical standards, and service philosophy.
• Complete assigned HR, safety, and workplace culture modules (e.g., Respect in the Workplace, Drug-Free Workplace).
• Engage in cross-training with staff from property management, accounting, and resident services departments.

Essential Duties And Responsibilities

• Income Qualification: Learn and assist in verifying applicant income, assets, and household composition for program eligibility.
• Tenant Recertification: Support processing of annual and interim recertifications to ensure compliance with HUD/LIHTC guidelines.
• Application Screening: Review applications, conduct preliminary checks, and maintain accurate waitlists.
• File Maintenance: Ensure documentation is well-organized and audit ready.
• Customer Service: Provide general information to residents on leasing, renewals, and compliance procedures.
• Lease Administration: Assist with move-in/move-out inspections, lease renewals, and documentation updates.

Mentorship & Training Commitment

• Complete assigned classroom and E-learning coursework, including introductory LIHTC, Fair Housing, and Occupancy Specialist training.
• Pursue at least one certification track (e.g., Tax Credit Specialist or Certified Occupancy Specialist) within 12–24 months of hire under mentor supervision.

Physical Demands and Working Conditions

• Primarily office-based with sedentary work.
• Occasional lifting (up to 20 lbs.) of files or supplies.
• May require limited local travel between sites for training or mentorship activities.

Competencies Developed During Program

• Knowledge of affordable housing program compliance (LIHTC/HUD).
• Customer service and resident relations best practices.
• Basic leasing processes and documentation management.
• Introduction to property operations, vendor coordination, and maintenance requests.
• Entry-level understanding of accounting, reporting, and budgeting fundamentals.
• Fair Housing, safety, and workplace professionalism standards.

Career Path Opportunities

• Upon successful completion of the mentorship program, Associates may advance to roles such as: Occupancy Specialist clerk / Occupancy Specialist, Occupancy Compliance Coordinator/ Specialist, Assistant Property Manager, Property Manager, Regional Manager.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED.
• Demonstrated interest in property management, affordable housing, or community services.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and customer service skills.
• Ability to follow procedures and learn within a structured, mentor-led environment.
• Basic computer literacy; ability to use email, Microsoft Office Word, and Excel.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bilingual in English and Spanish (helpful but not required).
• Previous experience in office administration, customer service, or social services.

Compensation

• Actual base salary considers several factors including but not limited to geography, job-related knowledge, experience, and budget.
• The start of the salary range is typically associated with the minimum experience required.
• The role is considered Part-Time non-exempt and may be eligible for overtime pay in accordance with federal and state law.
• The anticipated base pay range for the position is $21.00- $21.00 per hour.

Benefits

• Competitive pay.
• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Paid time off and holidays.
• Retail savings plan.
• Employee assistance and more.
• Term life and Voluntary supplemental life insurance.

Why RHF?

• We are dedicated to making a meaningful difference in the lives of our residents.
• We strive to create vibrant communities where individuals can thrive, regardless of age or background.
• We have over 60 years of experience in providing affordable housing and supportive services.
• We offer a collaborative and supportive work environment, opportunities for professional growth, and a commitment to making a lasting impact in the communities we serve.
• We believe in making every day better for those who need it most.