Senior Compliance Specialist

Job Type Full-time Description

 

The Senior Compliance Specialist oversees affordable housing programs, ensuring compliance across properties within the company. This role is responsible for maintaining the accuracy of resident files, coordinating with property owners and reviewing agencies, and collaborating with internal teams and external partners to effectively address housing needs.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Program Compliance, Site Visits and Audits

· Ensure compliance with HUD, State Agency, and Section 8 standards across assigned properties.

· Conduct on-site audits, file reviews, property clean-up, and training as needed to maintain regulatory alignment.

· Collaborate with property managers during site visits to reinforce compliance and address any issues directly

2. Staff and Departmental Training and Development

· Train on-site personnel and work with various departments (such as Property Management and Operations) to ensure a comprehensive understanding of compliance requirements, including applicant qualification, certifications, waiting list management, and file setup.

· Support Property Managers and other department leads with data gathering, income calculations, and move-in file organization.

3. File Management and Certification Verification

· Review and ensure accuracy for all move-in and re-certification files, completing daily remote file checks with quick turnaround times.

· Verify income and asset documentation in line with program standards to ensure compliance.

4. Tenant Certifications and Recertification Oversight

· Manage tenant certifications and recertifications, ensuring timely completion across properties. Process Special Claims for Project-Based Section 8 properties as needed.

· Provide residents with resources to understand program requirements, lease obligations, and recertification processes.

5. Data Integrity and Compliance Reporting

· Maintain accurate data in internal systems, generate compliance reports to support management decision-making, and handle all reporting to local, state, and federal agencies as required.

· Monitor state agency reporting requirements, assist with audit responses, and ensure timely submission of all necessary compliance documentation.

6. Regulatory Compliance and Policy Updates

· Stay current on fair housing regulations and affordable housing program updates. Interpret policy changes and lead briefings for staff on regulatory updates.

· Collaborate effectively with third-party compliance oversight agencies to ensure program adherence and address any compliance issues.

7. Risk Management and Process Improvement

· Identify potential compliance risks and develop strategies to mitigate them.

· Continuously recommend improvements for leasing, revenue management, and delinquency reduction.

Requirements

 Preferred Qualifications:

· Minimum of 5 years of experience in affordable housing compliance, particularly with HUD or Tax Credit programs.

· Certified Occupancy Specialist (COS) and Tax Credit Specialist Certification (TCS) required.

· Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Adobe, and Yardi Software Systems.

· Strong communication skills across all levels of staff and management, with a professional appearance, positive attitude, and role model behavior.

· Flexibility to travel

· Bachelor’s degree Preferred

Additional Certifications (Preferred or Willingness to Attain Post-Hire):

· CPO Certification (Section 8)

· SHCM Designation (Section 42)

· RAM Certification or equivalent

· FHC (Fair Housing Coordinator) Certification

Skills and Competencies:

· Ability to Work Independently: Self-motivated, able to manage responsibilities with minimal supervision, and proactive in meeting compliance requirements.

· Analytical and Regulatory Interpretation Skills: Proficient in interpreting regulatory guidelines and resolving compliance issues effectively.

· Collaboration with Third-Party Oversight: Skilled in coordinating with third-party compliance agencies and responding to compliance reviews.

· Conflict Resolution and Problem Solving: Skilled in addressing tenant issues and mediating compliance concerns professionally.

· Project Management: Strong organizational abilities to manage multiple projects and meet established deadlines efficiently.

Salary Description $80,000-$100,000/year