Project-Based Occupant Specialist

RIHousing – Project-Based Occupant Specialist
Salary - $51,896.00 - $62,276.00

Please note: This pay range represents the base annual full-time salary for all positions within this job grade. The actual salary offered will depend on factors such as experience and other job- related qualifications.

 
What we are all about:
We are seeking a dynamic professional to serve as a Project-Based Occupant Specialist in our 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 our Leased Housing team. The role is designed for face-to-face collaboration and direct involvement in our office environment.

What you’ll do daily:        
Program Administration & Leasing

• 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.

Continued Occupancy & Case Management

• 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.

Compliance, Quality Control & Data Management

• 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 promptly correct identified errors.

Collaboration & Stakeholder Support

• 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.

Program Support & Special Projects

• 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.

What you’ll bring to the team:

• 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

What success looks like in this position:

• 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

• 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)

• Use of a personal vehicle, a valid driver’s license, and proof of insurance are required

Not sure if you meet all the qualifications? Let us decide! 

Why RIHousing:

• Mission-Driven Organization

• Dedicated Workforce

• Parking Stipend

• Medical/Dental/Vision/Life Insurance

• Paid Time Off

• Retirement Options

• Flexible Work Hours

• If Position Eligible, Future Hybrid Work May Be Available

• Education Reimbursement

• Onsite Fitness Classes

• Volunteer Days

• Winner of “Best Places to Work” 2016, 2018, 2019, 2021 – 2026

• Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce Worksite Health Award 2013 – 2025

• PBN's Healthiest Employers of RI 2025

About RIHousing:
RIHousing works to ensure that all people who live in Rhode Island can afford a healthy, attractive home that meets their needs. RIHousing provides loans, grants, education, and assistance to help Rhode Islanders find, rent, buy, build, and keep a good home. Created by the General Assembly in 1973, RIHousing is a self-sustaining corporation and receives no state funding for operations.