Occupancy Specialist

Responsibilities

We are seeking a highly organized and detail-oriented Occupancy & Recertification Specialistat our 497 unit Low Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) and HUD Project Based Section 8 community Marine Terrace in Astoria, NY. At Marine Terrace, we are proud to serve a diverse population, including multi-family residents and homeless veterans, providing a supportive environment for those who need it most. You will lead day-to-day leasing and income certifications for an affordable housing community, managing move-ins, renewals, and the recertification process in line with HUD, LIHTC, Section 8, and HPD rules.

Bring your eye for accuracy and commitment to great service to keep files compliant, residents supported, and occupancy on target.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Generate and manage prospect traffic and the waitlist; conduct property tours and convert qualified prospects.
• Qualify applicants, prepare program-appropriate lease documentation, and complete move-in files and procedures.
• Execute renewals in alignment with program rules and property objectives; maintain organized, audit-ready files.
• Manage initial, annual, and interim recertifications, including retroactive rent calculations, in compliance with HUD regulations, LIHTC standards, and HPD guidelines.
• Review and verify income, assets, and household composition; calculate program rents for diverse income sources, including self-employment and small businesses; identify and address income discrepancies, initiate necessary rent adjustments, and ensure all documentation is properly filed and recorded.
• Review applicant files for Section 8 eligibility, ensuring all required documents meet agency and program criteria.
• Maintain compliance with Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) and Section 8 program guidelines.
• Serve as a liaison between residents and property management, offering support on recertification processes and income verification requirements.
• Maintain accurate resident folders; track deadlines and recertification pipelines to prevent non-compliance.
• Support agency audits, MORs, and file inspections; respond to findings with timely corrections.
• Partner with the Property Management and Compliance teams on rent collection follow-ups, lease enforcement, and renewals.
• Provide notary services as needed for official documentation.
• Collaborate with the property management team to support resident relations, rent collection, and lease renewals.
• Complete initial, annual, and interim recertifications, including retroactive rent calculations, in compliance with HUD, LIHTC, Section 8, and (if applicable) HPD standards.
• Enter and maintain data in property management/compliance systems (e.g., Yardi, RealPage, EIV/TRACS, iREMS), as assigned.
• Run periodic reports (traffic, occupancy, recert status, delinquency, compliance tasks) and support responses during audits and inspections.
  
  

ANTICIPATED SALARY RANGE:

• $31.25 - $33.65 / hour
• 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.

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!
• Parking available on-site
• 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!
  
  

Qualifications

• 2 years of experience in affordable housing, HUD programs, leasing, or property compliance.
• Strong proficiency in rent calculation methods, including HPD and HUD standards.
• HS Diploma/GED (bachelor’s preferred).
• Review and interpret financial documents like pay stubs, tax returns, and rent statements.
• Certification in COS, TCS, or other affordable housing compliance training preferred (or willingness to obtain).
• Current State Real Estate License (preferred).
• Commissioned Notary Public preferred
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple deadlines, stay highly organized, and ensure compliance under regulatory frameworks.
• Experience with property management software (e.g., RealPage, OneSite, Yardi, JD Edwards), a plus.
• Strong financial, organizational, and critical thinking skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to quickly build trust with teams and residents.
• Adaptable, proactive, and comfortable working in fast-paced, changing environments.
• Demonstrates accountability and resilience, with a commitment to resident-centered service and collaborative teamwork
• Demonstrated ability to maintain confidentiality and navigate sensitive issues professionally.
• 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 problemsolving, while continuously engaging in learning and development to enhance performance; fosters collaboration and a resident-centered environment, ensuring empathy, respect, and cross-functional success in all interactions.
  
  

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 .

We are proud to be an equal-opportunity employer committed to building an inclusive culture with competitive compensation aligned with experience and market standards.

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