Occupancy & Recertification Specialist

About the Role

We’re looking for an Occupancy & Recertification Specialist to join our team at our 446-unit affordable housing community in Chicago, IL. This role is responsible for the recertification process, ensuring compliance with affordable housing programs, and maintaining strong resident relations.

Responsibilities

• Process and collect resident information, including third-party verification.
• Determine eligibility for continued occupancy and process interim certifications as needed.
• Ensure proper calculation of income, assets, and rent levels.
• Provide guidance and training to team members on compliance processes and best practices.
• Maintain and update EIV binders, ensuring timely generation of monthly and quarterly EIV reports.
• Monitor and enforce adherence to Low Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) and HUD regulations.
• Prepare and process required documentation for audits and compliance reviews.
• Process initial, annual, and interim recertifications, including calculating retroactive rent, in compliance with HUD regulations and HPD guidelines.
• Accurately determine tenant rents for annual and interim recertifications.
• Maintain detailed records of all transactions to ensure compliance with housing policies.
• Collaborate with property management to address resident concerns related to recertifications.
• Ensure timely submission of all necessary forms and documentation.

Extensive knowledge of Affordable Housing, LIHTC, HUD, Section 8, Federal, State, and Local Housing regulations is required.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated ability to complete recertification accurately and within an established time frame.
• Familiarity with HUD/Public Housing/Tax Credit policies and procedures.
• Highly detail-oriented, with the ability to manage a deadline-driven schedule.
• Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• COS (Certified Occupancy Specialist) certification is required; Notary Public certification is preferred.
• Proficiency in housing management software, RealPage is a plus.
• Leasing License or ability to obtain within 120 days of hire.
• A strong passion for social action, delivery of quality services, and the preservation of affordable housing.
• Demonstrates accountability and reliability by taking full ownership of projects and outcomes, prioritizing precision, and approaching challenges with proactive problem-solving.

Benefits

• 19+ days of paid time off.
• Customizable total rewards package, including medical, vision, dental, life insurance, and an Employee Assistance Program.
• Financial wellness perks: 401(k), FSA & HSA, employer-paid life and AD&D insurance, paid leave, and disability programs.
• Mental health resources, including counseling.
• Fertility benefits, such as surrogacy and adoption assistance.
• Paid time off to volunteer and charitable donation matching.
• Learning and training programs, tuition and certification reimbursement, and internal advancement opportunities.

Pay

Anticipated salary range: $24.00–$25.00 per hour. This position is non-exempt and eligible for overtime pay. Actual compensation may vary based on qualifications, location, and role responsibilities. In addition to salary, this position may be eligible for performance bonuses and a comprehensive benefits package.

About the Company

Related Affordable spearheads Related's initiatives to preserve and enhance the nation's affordable housing supply. With over 50 years of experience in affordable housing acquisitions and development, Related Affordable is nationally recognized for its innovation in financing, preservation, and rehabilitation. The company manages one of the largest affordable housing portfolios in the United States and is committed to ensuring everyone deserves a quality home.