Assistant Property Manager - Affordable

About the Role

The Assistant Property Manager supports the Property Manager in the day-to-day operations of affordable housing communities, including leasing, resident support, regulatory compliance, rent collection, office administration, and coordination of maintenance and vendor services. Responsibilities may vary based on site needs, with potential focus areas in compliance, leasing, or operational tasks.

Responsibilities

• Leadership & Staff Support
  • Step into site leadership responsibilities when the Property Manager is unavailable.
  • Support onboarding, orienting, and training site staff.
  • Foster a positive and efficient team environment through guidance and collaboration.
  • Provide ongoing support and cross-training to ensure leadership readiness.
• Resident Relations
  • Deliver responsive, courteous service to residents regarding inquiries, complaints, and maintenance needs.
  • Assist in coordinating resident services, programming, or events.
  • Assist with new resident orientations and maintain a welcoming site environment.
  • Maintain respectful relationships with Resident Council representatives and Social Services personnel (if applicable).
• Compliance & Regulatory Management
  • Ensure adherence to federal, state, and municipal housing regulations, including Fair Housing, ADA, and FCRA.
  • Support certification, recertification, and interim processes based on site needs.
  • Assist with documentation for HUD, LIHTC, and other funding programs.
  • Remain familiar with the HUD 4350.3 Handbook and attend compliance training as needed.
  • Assist with preparation for Management and Occupancy Reviews (MORs), file audits, and physical inspections.
• Leasing & Marketing
  • Show units and market the property to prospective residents.
  • Assist with outreach efforts, waiting list maintenance, and implementation of Resident Selection and Affirmative Fair Housing Marketing Plans.
  • Conduct market surveys and shop competing properties as needed.
• Financial & Rent Administration
  • Collect and record rent payments, fees, and security deposits accurately and timely.
  • Prepare and deliver notices (late rent, lease violations, etc.) in coordination with the Property Manager.
  • Input accounts payable and submit required documentation to the corporate office.
  • Assist with tracking accounts receivable, subsidy receivables, and tenant ledgers.
• Office & Operations
  • Respond to inquiries and manage office reception, phones, and front desk coverage.
  • Maintain accurate and organized records, including certifications, leases, vendor documentation, and correspondence.
  • Support coordination of vendor work, supply procurement, and staff maintenance schedules.
  • Enter maintenance requests into OneSite and follow up on work orders and unit turnovers.
• Maintenance & Property Oversight
  • Conduct property and unit inspections as assigned.
  • Monitor the condition of the building, common areas, and grounds; report issues promptly.
  • Support emergency response and on-call duties when required.
• Safety & Risk Management
  • Report all resident incidents, safety hazards, and work-related injuries immediately to the Property Manager.
  • Assist in completing required safety checklists with the maintenance team.

Requirements

• Education & Experience
  • High school diploma or GED required.
  • 1–3 years of experience in affordable housing, leasing, or site operations.
  • Familiarity with HUD, LIHTC, or other compliance programs preferred.
• Licenses & Certifications
  • Illinois Real Estate Licensee (or must obtain Illinois Residential Leasing License within 120 days of hire).
  • Valid Driver’s License and current auto insurance.
  • Certified Occupancy Specialist (COS) or Tax Credit Certification preferred.
  • ARM or CAM designation a plus.
• Technical & Other Requirements
  • Ability to work evenings, weekends, or emergencies as needed.
  • Proficiency in OneSite property management software or equivalent.
  • Knowledge of Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, Teams).
  • Strong math skills and ability to reconcile accounts.
  • Ability to professionally interact with residents, vendors, owners, and regulatory staff.
  • Must be adaptable, collaborative, and service-focused.
  • Capable of inspecting buildings, apartments, and grounds.
  • Reliable transportation, valid driver's license, active auto insurance, and a reliable personal vehicle for frequent travel.
• Physical Demands
  • Ability to stand, walk, and sit for extended periods.
  • Occasional climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, or lifting up to 25 pounds.
  • Ability to access and inspect units, common areas, and mechanical spaces.

Skills

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Customer Focus: Delivers quality service; responds promptly and respectfully to resident needs.
• Communication: Listens well, communicates clearly both verbally and in writing, and presents professionally.
• Compliance Awareness: Understands and follows housing regulations; supports compliance documentation.
• Organizational Skills: Prioritizes tasks, maintains records, and works efficiently in a multi-tasked environment.
• Teamwork: Collaborates with others; supports cross-functional cooperation across site staff.
• Adaptability: Responds well to shifting priorities and learns quickly in a dynamic housing environment.

Working Conditions

• Frequently exposed to outdoor elements during inspections or emergencies.
• Occasionally exposed to fumes or cleaning chemicals.
• Moderate noise level in property office and surrounding areas.