Project-Based Occupant Specialist

Rhode Island Housing•Providence, RI

10d•Hybrid

About The Position

RIHousing is seeking a dynamic professional to serve as a Project-Based Occupant Specialist in their Leased Housing Department. This position is responsible for administering admissions, initial and continued occupancy, and waitlist management for the Project-Based Voucher (PBV) and Moderate Rehabilitation (MOD Rehab) programs, in compliance with all applicable federal (HUD) and state regulations. This is a hybrid position based in Providence, Rhode Island, where you will be an integral part of their Leased Housing team. The role is designed for face-to-face collaboration and direct involvement in the office environment.

Requirements

Ability to interpret and apply complex regulations with accuracy
Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills
High attention to detail and commitment to data integrity
Ability to manage a high-volume caseload while meeting deadlines
Customer-service mindset with professionalism and empathy
Ability to build collaborative relationships with tenants, landlords, and partner agencies
Adaptability in a fast-changing regulatory environment
Commitment to equity, fairness, and consistent application of program rules
Five years of related housing management experience
Working knowledge of HUD regulations related to the Housing Choice Voucher program
Strong verbal and written communication skills, along with solid organizational, negotiation, and computer skills
Use of a personal vehicle, a valid driver’s license, and proof of insurance required

Nice To Haves

Property management certification strongly preferred
Associate’s degree in real estate, business administration, or a related field preferred; equivalent work experience accepted
Bilingual ability preferred (especially Spanish or Portuguese)

Responsibilities

Manage leasing activities for the Project-Based Voucher (PBV) and Moderate Rehabilitation (Mod Rehab) programs, including waitlist oversight, eligibility screening, and updates to admissions processes to meet HUD and organizational requirements.
Collaborate with project-based management staff to fill vacancies promptly and reduce vacancy loss.
Conduct applicant briefings and individual interviews to explain program requirements and determine eligibility.
Administer annual and interim reexaminations, verify income and household composition, calculate tenant rent and Housing Assistance Payments (HAP), and process changes in family composition or unit.
Prepare and execute rent adjustments, HAP contracts, repayment agreements, compliance notices, and termination actions in accordance with HUD and agency policies.
Address tenant and landlord concerns by interpreting program regulations, internal policies, and legal documentation.
Maintain timely communication with tenants, owners, applicants, and the public, responding to inquiries within 24 hours per department policy.
Ensure full compliance with federal (HUD) and state regulations, staying current with policy updates.
Maintain accurate electronic tenant files and perform timely data entry in YARDI and HUD PIC systems, correcting discrepancies as needed.
Review HUD Secure Systems reports (e.g., income verification, identity verification, deceased tenant, multiple subsidy) and take appropriate action.
Participate in monthly quality control audits and correct identified errors promptly.
Provide training and technical assistance to project-based property management teams to support compliance, timely vacancy reporting, and accurate HAP payments.
Build and maintain positive working relationships with property owners, state agencies, nonprofit partners, public housing authorities, and other stakeholders.
Coordinate with the Portability Specialist for households moving outside RIHousing’s jurisdiction, ensuring proper documentation and communication with tenants and landlords.
Assist the Program Manager with developing performance standards, training materials, and standard operating procedures.
Participate in hearing processes related to terminations and appeals, ensuring proper protocol is followed.
Identify and refer eligible households to the Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) program and ensure accurate FSS data entry.
Support special projects, reporting needs, and cross-training initiatives as assigned.