CERTIFIED OCCUPANCY SPECIALIST

Position Summary    

The Certified Occupancy Specialist (COS) reports to the Housing Manager. They provide clerical support to the site offices. The COS performs all required typing, copying, and coordination of all paperwork for the Housing Manager, including ordering all necessary supplies for copiers, faxes, and other related equipment. The COS determines the continued eligibility of residents who are seeking affordable housing assistance. They will monitor and adhere to policies and procedures. Manages priorities and multiple projects commensurate with Housing Authority standards. Clarifies and handles occupancy certification standards and trains other clerk typists when needed. Maintain a high degree of rent calculation accuracy.

Key Duties/Essential Job Functions:

1. Type a wide variety of material, including correspondence, reports, and forms.
2. Set up and maintain all files required to operate the office. Make changes to files, as needed, on family composition and income. Maintain files on all verified information.
3. Interview applicants to obtain background information to clarify questions about occupancy and public housing eligibility requirements.
4. Assemble and organize information received from various agencies regarding family income, expenses, etc., to determine eligibility.
5. Receive and transmit various information by telephone from applicants, residents, offices of the Housing Authority, and others.
6. Process applications for apartments, rents, and transfers. Assist in processing move-ins, move- outs, and transfers within the sites.
7. Assist in the continual review of active residents and in verifying continuing resident eligibility during annual reviews and updates.
8. Calculate rent based on the resident's income and HUD regulations with high accuracy. Conduct annual re-certifications.
9. Clarify questions about occupancy certification standards and income. Explain the rules, regulations, and eligibility requirements for public housing.
10. Enter data into a computer program (Yardi). Produce calculated worksheets with rent determination.
11. Track rent payments and outstanding debt through the Yardi database.
12. Operate standard office equipment, such as a telephone, computer terminal, calculator, photocopy machine, fax machine, etc., as needed.
13. Interact with residents in assistance with the Site Manager.
14. Perform other duties as assigned.

Education/Qualifications 

High school diploma or equivalent, business school courses a plus. At least two years of clerical experience is a must. Have a clear understanding of HUD regulations and guidelines to ensure compliance. 

• Ability to make moderately complicated arithmetic computations. 
• Interviewing skills involving tact, courtesy, and discretion when dealing with applicants.
• Ability to make independent judgments on problems and issues. 
• Strong computer proficiency. 
• Excellent communication skills, both oral and written. Must be able to follow instructions accurately. 
• Cooperative/courteous to the public and team player. 
• Work with minimal supervision. 
• Possess a valid CT driver's license.

Working Conditions/Physical Requirements

Typical office environment and able to attend meetings, training, and travel to PCC sites unaccompanied.

Benefits

• State of CT 2.0 Partnership Healthcare Plan w/ HEP Dental & Vision
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Employer paid group health life insurance $25,000
• CT Municipal Employee Retirement System Employee 5.25% contribution, Employer Match 16.68% (5-year vesting) 
• PTO or Vacation, Sick & Personal Days
• 13 paid holidays per calendar year
• Professional growth and development opportunities
• Eligible Public Service Loan Forgiveness employer
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Employee discount perks via ADP services
• Supplemental Insurance Retirement 

Pay Rate

• No 4-year degree or non-certified- $23.00/hr
• Bachelor's degree or Certified Occupancy Specialist Certificate- $25.00/hr