Occupancy & Recertification Specialist

RELATED; Chicago, Northern (IL, KY); On-site; USD 68,770,000 - 71,635,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid time off

Health insurance

401(k) plan

Dental & Vision

Job summary

Related Affordable is seeking an Occupancy & Recertification Specialist in Chicago, IL to manage recertifications & compliance at a 446-unit property. You’ll handle resident information, 3rd party verifications, and rent determinations in line with HUD and HPD guidelines.

This role emphasizes accuracy, timely processing, and strong knowledge of affordable housing policies. The team offers strong benefits and opportunities for professional growth within Related Affordable.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated ability to complete recertification accurately and within established time frames.
• Familiarity with HUD/Public Housing/Tax Credit policies and procedures.
• Detail-oriented with deadline-driven scheduling.
• COS certification required; Notary Public preferred.

Responsibilities

• Provide guidance and training to team members on compliance processes and best practices.
• Maintain and update EIV binders and generate monthly/quarterly EIV reports.
• Monitor adherence to LIHTC and HUD regulations.
• Prepare documentation for audits and compliance reviews.
• Process initial, annual, and interim recertifications with rent calculations.
• Accurately determine tenant rents for annual/interim recertifications.
• Maintain detailed records of transactions to ensure policy compliance.

Skills

Detail-oriented

Organized

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Team training

Education

COS (Certified Occupancy Specialist)

Notary Public (preferred)

Tools

RealPage

Job description

Responsibilities

Are you detail-oriented, organized, and passionate about ensuring compliance in affordable housing? We’re looking for a Occupancy & Recertification Specialist to join our team at our 446 unit affordable housing community in Chicago, IL . The Recertification Specialist is responsible for the recertification process at the property and is required to know about all aspects of recertifications, program compliance, and resident relations. Your responsibilities include but are not limited to processing and collecting resident information including 3rd party verification, determining eligibility for continued occupancy, processing interim certifications as needed, ensuring proper calculation of income, assets and rent levels.

If you’re ready to leverage your knowledge of affordable housing policies and passion for excellence in a high-impact role, we’d love to hear from you!

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• 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

WHY YOU'LL LOVE IT HERE:

• Lots of paid time off (19+ days!) – we value your life outside of work.
• Customizable total rewards package – pick from our medical, vision and dental options, along with our life insurance and an Employee Assistance Program
• Financial wellness perks to set you up for success - such as 401(k), FSA & HSA, employer-paid life and AD&D insurance; paid leave & disability programs.
• Mental health resources, such as counseling, are available to our team members.
• Fertility benefits – such as surrogacy, adoption assistance and more!
• Paid time off to volunteer and we will match your charitable donations! We are a passionate team making real impact on the world!
• Grow with us – learning & training programs; tuition & certification reimbursement; internal advancement opportunities are available…and so much more!

#RAJOBS

LI-AB1

ANTICPATED SALARY RANGE:

• $24.00-$25.00 /hr.
• Annual Performance Bonus
• This position is Non-Exempt, meaning eligible for overtime pay

This range is provided as a general guideline and reflects what we reasonably expect to pay for this role at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary depending on a variety of factors, including the candidate’s qualifications, geographical location, and the specific responsibilities of the role. In addition to salary, this position may be eligible for performance bonuses and a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.

Final compensation offers will be determined following a thorough assessment of the candidate’s background and the requirements of the position.

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 attention to detail, and approaching challenges with grit, resilience, and proactive problem-solving, while continuously engaging in learning and development to enhance performance.

Overview

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 renowned nationally for its financing, preservation, and rehabilitation innovation. Presently, Related Affordable manages one of the largest affordable housing portfolios in the United States. Our team is committed to the principle that everyone deserves a quality home, and we tirelessly strive to fulfill this mission in communities nationwide. Visit our website for more information: Related Affordable Housing.