The Occupancy Specialist (OS) is a member of the Property Management Compliance team, and is responsible for processing Tax Credit, HOME, USDA RD & HUD paperwork to verify applicants/residents meet regulatory requirements of the properties. This individual is responsible for interviewing housing applicants or residents in the main office, at properties or by telephone, and preparing data for entry into Property Management software regarding occupancy (Interim and annual re-certifications). The Occupancy Specialist works independently and as part of a collaborative team to ensure Champlain Housing Trust properties remain in compliance with all applicable regulations.

Annual Recertification

• Check property management software (Real Page One Site) monthly for re-certifications.
• Send notices to residents requiring certification.
• Prepare individual files for each resident in need of re-certification.
• Meet with tenants and obtains signatures on re-certification paperwork.
• Regularly check outstanding third-party verification paperwork for return and follow up with agencies/individuals to ensure verifications are received in a timely manner.
• Process all Annual and Interim certifications in property management software (Real Page One Site).
• Ensure all necessary documentation is in order.
• Regularly audits resident files to ensure accuracy and completeness.
• Ensure compliance with HUD, LIHTC, HOME, and RD regulations for all recertification and reporting requirements.
• Assist in Special Claims preparation, submission, and tracking.
• Coordinate with local housing authorities for residents who have a Section 8 vouchers.
• Run reports from property management software (Real Page One Site) as requested.

Application Review

• Participates and is an active member of the application review team.
• Review screened applications to determine approval or denial.
• Follow up with applications department with any clarifications.

Other General Duties

• Adhere to all fair housing and local landlord and tenant laws and regulations.
• Demonstrate a commitment to equity and inclusion in all interactions.
• Answer applicant/resident questions regarding regulations.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Associates Degree or equivalent experience working in a professional office environment required.
• Proficiency using computers, Microsoft Office Suite, aptitude for learning new software products and standard office technology required.
• Positive attitude, strong work ethic and willingness to learn required.
• Must demonstrate a commitment to equity and inclusion.
• Knowledge of Section 8 NC/SR 811 and Federal, and State tenant laws and regulations strongly preferred.
• Current Tax Credit, HUD and RD Occupancy & Compliance Requirements Certifications or ability to obtain same within six months of employment required.
• Must be committed to CHT's membership based model of community controlled and permanently affordable housing.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation required.
• Ability to pass a routine criminal background check required.

• Excellent attention to detail, customer service skills, ability to handle confidential information, organization and planning skills, and ability to relate to internal and external parties professionally.
• Strong written and verbal communication, self-motivation, verbal de-escalation, interpersonal, computer and technology skills.
• Contributes positively to professional and respectful office environment.

Physical and Mental abilities: The Occupancy Specialist must have the physical and mental abilities to perform the essential job duties listed above. Reasonable accommodation may be extended to help perform those duties. The job entails long periods of sitting at a desk. There will be prolonged periods of computer work. While performing the essential duties of this job the Compliance Specialist may have to use eyes, hands and fingers, walk, stand, reach, or lift up to 25 pounds.

Champlain Housing Trust is a non-profit, member-based organization. This individual must be committed to equity, inclusion, CHT’s membership based model of community controlled and permanently affordable housing and must also be committed to delivering exceptional customer service and executing CHT’s mission by focusing on our customers - listening attentively, identifying needs, and making their best effort to resolve issues or concerns. The work entails significant self motivation. Travel to rental sites and occasional travel to meetings and seminars will be required.

Equal Opportunity Employer - CHT is committed to a diverse workplace and highly encourages women, persons with disabilities, Section 3 low income residents, and people from diverse racial, ethnic and cultural backgrounds to apply.