CNI Grant Compliance Specialist

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS

The Grant Compliance Specialist plays a critical role in ensuring adherence to HUD Choice Neighborhoods Implementation (CNI) grant requirements, regulations, and reporting standards. Under the supervision of the Director of Development, this position oversees the compliance processes related to fund disbursement, monitors grant-related expenditures, and ensures accuracy in reporting and financial management. This work involves responsibility for handling eLOCCS (Electronic Line of Credit Control System) submissions, preparing compliance reports, and maintaining meticulous records of all grant-related documentation. The specialist provides essential support to project teams, conducts on-site audits, and interacts with HUD representatives to maintain accountability throughout the grant lifecycle. The Grant Compliance Specialist may also coordinate the efforts of clerical support staff involved in related tasks and projects. Does related work as required.

CNI Grant Compliance Specialist is an Open-Competitive Onondaga County Civil Service position and if hired, continued employment will be contingent on qualifying for, successfully passing, and reachability off the applicable Onondaga County Civil Service Exam. You MUST meet the minimum qualifications of the position in order to be considered and compete in the examination. 

After a conditional offer of employment, a favorable background check, verification of education and work history, and illegal drug screening must be completed prior to starting employment. Proof of identity and legal work authorization will also be required.

TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES

• Processes funding requests and manages disbursements through HUD’s eLOCCS system, ensuring all transactions align with grant provisions.
• Tracks fund drawdowns and reconciles eLOCCS records with internal financial systems, reviewing and verifying expenditures against approved budgets.
• Prepares, reviews, and submits regular compliance reports, financial statements, and performance metrics as required by HUD and other regulatory bodies.
• Develops and maintains a comprehensive electronic and physical filing system for grant documentation, including agreements, budget modifications, and official correspondence, ensuring documents are audit-ready.
• Monitors compliance with HUD’s CNI grant requirements, providing guidance to Director of Development and other departmental staff on regulatory standards.
• Conducts on-site audits and internal control reviews to evaluate program compliance and recommends corrective actions as needed.
• Confers with Director of Development and other departmental staff to develop project timelines, outline milestones, and ensure timely submission of required documentation.
• Provides training for staff and stakeholders on HUD requirements and compliance standards, conducting workshops and informational sessions as necessary.
• Assists in internal and external audit preparation, coordinating responses to inquiries and ensuring accuracy in submitted information.
• Prepares detailed written reports, summarizing compliance findings, financial status, and suggested modifications to improve grant management efficiency.
• Analyzes cost/benefit aspects of alternative courses of action and prepares reports supporting recommendations for improved operational compliance and financial oversight.
•  

FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, ABILITIES, AND PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS

• Comprehensive knowledge of HUD regulations and grant management principles, particularly concerning CNI or community redevelopment grants.
• Working knowledge of compliance and reporting requirements associated with federal grant programs.
• Familiarity with eLOCCS or similar federal disbursement platforms, as well as a working understanding of financial and grant tracking systems.
• Ability to organize, analyze, and interpret complex financial and regulatory data.
• Skilled in identifying, analyzing, and solving compliance issues in a grant-funded program environment.
• Strong communication skills, both oral and written, with the ability to interact effectively with HUD officials, agency staff, and community stakeholders.
• Proficient in the use of Microsoft Office and grant management software, with experience in preparing comprehensive compliance reports.
• Detail-oriented, with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously while meeting deadlines.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Open Competitive:

• Graduation from a regionally accredited college or university with a baccalaureate degree in Public Administration, Business Administration, Finance, or a related field; or
• Four (4) years of paraprofessional or professional-level work experience in grant management or compliance; or
• An equivalent combination of training and experience as defined by the limits of (A) and (B).