Project-Based Occupant Specialist
Location: Providence, RI
Work Arrangement: Hybrid
Salary: $51,896–$62,276
About the Employer
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.
Role Summary
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. You will be an integral part of the Leased Housing team, based in Providence, Rhode Island, with a hybrid work arrangement designed for face-to-face collaboration and direct involvement in the office environment.
What You'll Do
- 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
Required Qualifications
- 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
- 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
Preferred Qualifications
- Property management certification
- Associate's degree in real estate, business administration, or a related field
- Bilingual ability (especially Spanish or Portuguese)
Compensation
$51,896–$62,276. 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.
Benefits
Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance; paid time off; retirement options; flexible work hours; parking stipend; education reimbursement; onsite fitness classes; volunteer days; and future hybrid work may be available if position eligible.
Additional Information
RIHousing is a mission-driven organization with a dedicated workforce. The company is a winner of "Best Places to Work" 2016, 2018, 2019, 2021–2026; Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce Worksite Health Award 2013–2025; and PBN's Healthiest Employers of RI 2025. Not sure if you meet all the qualifications? Let us decide!
