OCCUPANCY SPECIALIST

Quality Placement Authority; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 28,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

Quality Placement Authority in Chicago is seeking a Housing Occupancy Specialist to support the Bridge Subsidy Initiative. The role emphasizes direct client services and administrative tasks to help maintain housing stability and program compliance.

Ideal candidates have housing experience, strong communication skills, and the ability to handle sensitive situations professionally. Bachelor's degree is required, and COS certification should be obtained within one year of hire.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required.
• 1–2 years of experience in housing or related field; 3–4 years preferred.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel.
• Must obtain COS certification within one year of employment; existing COS preferred.
• Background checks and program-specific screenings required.

Responsibilities

• Manage an assigned caseload and respond to client inquiries regarding the Bridge Subsidy Initiative.
• Prepare correspondence, notifications, and documentation related to holds, reinstatements, and security deposit returns.
• Collaborate with the Occupancy Team to assist tenants at risk of eviction.
• Apply program regulations and housing agency policies to address tenant and landlord concerns.
• Respond to client complaints and crises following agency policies and procedures.
• Maintain accurate client files, databases, and program records.
• Complete administrative tasks and documentation to meet agency, program, and regulatory standards.
• Ensure compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and program requirements.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

Communication

Excel

Education

Bachelor's degree

Job description

Now Hiring: Housing Occupancy Specialist

Location: Chicago (Marquette Park area)
Employment Type: Temp to Hire
Pay Rate: $25.00

Position Summary

We are seeking a compassionate, organized, and detail-oriented Housing Occupancy Specialist to support the Bridge Subsidy Initiative. This position provides direct client services and administrative support to help maintain housing stability, ensure program compliance, and resolve tenant and landlord concerns. The ideal candidate has experience in housing services, strong communication skills, and the ability to handle sensitive situations professionally.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage an assigned caseload and respond to client inquiries regarding the Bridge Subsidy Initiative.
• Prepare correspondence, notifications, and documentation related to program holds, reinstatements, and security deposit returns.
• Collaborate with the Occupancy Team to assist tenants at risk of eviction.
• Apply program regulations and housing agency policies to address tenant and landlord concerns.
• Respond to client complaints and crisis situations in consultation with the supervisor, following established agency policies and procedures.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date client files, databases, and program records.
• Complete administrative tasks and documentation required to meet agency, program, and regulatory standards.
• Ensure compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and program requirements.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications and Requirements

• Education: Bachelor's degree required.
• Experience: Minimum of 1–2 years of experience in housing or a related field; 3–4 years preferred.
• Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Technical Skills: Proficiency in Microsoft Excel.
• Certification: Must obtain the National Center for Housing Management (NCHM) Certified Occupancy Specialist (COS) certification within one year of employment. Existing COS certification is preferred.
• Background Check: Must successfully complete required background checks and any program-specific screening requirements.

Physical Requirements

• This position requires the ability to:
• Kneel and transition between sitting, standing, bending, and kneeling throughout the day.
• Push and pull objects weighing up to 25 pounds.
• Lift up to 25 pounds.
• Climb four or more flights of stairs as needed.

Ideal Candidate

The successful candidate will be professional, empathetic, and highly organized, with the ability to manage multiple priorities while working with individuals experiencing housing instability. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and a commitment to maintaining accurate records and protecting client confidentiality are essential.