Occupancy Specialist

Our StoryThe West Side Federation for Senior and Supportive Housing, Inc. (WSFSSH) is a communitybased organization whose mission is to provide safe, affordable housing with supportive services within a residential setting which enhances the independence and dignity of each person. WSFSSH develops, manages, and provides housing for low-income older persons, many of whom live with mental illness and/or have experienced homelessness.Position DescriptionThe Occupancy Specialist is a key member of the Leasing and Compliance team. They will report to the Assistant Director of Occupancy and work closely with Leasing and Compliance colleagues and Property Management. The Occupancy Specialists chief responsibility is to maintain a high occupancy rate at buildings owned and/or managed by WSFSSH and conduct all duties in compliance with Low Income Housing Tax Credit guidelines, subsidy guidelines, and equal housing opportunity laws.Please Note: This is a full-time position (4) days a weekon-site, (1) day a week working from home.Responsibilities * Analyze occupancy rate at sites in portfolio and determine the appropriate number of interview/appointment notices * Manage waiting lists in accordance with HUD tenant selection plans and Fair Housing Law * Coordinate with the management team to ensure the apartments are ready for move-in * Maintain and update applicant referrals through HRAs Coordinated Assessment and Placement System (CAPS) (if applicable) * Pre-qualify applicants in accordance with the program procedures and housing requirements * Interview applicants for program and determine eligibility * Send third-party income verifications * Run EIV reports and background checks (if applicable) * Prepare income certification package and submit to WSFSSHs Compliance department as well as the city for approval (if necessary) * Gather and Input information into the property management database * Finalize initial leasing and subsidy paperwork and submit to the building * Prepare and conduct weekly vacancy meetings with designated members of building staff in portfolio * Participate in lease-up of affordable housing developments by WSFSSH. Lease up activities can include Housing Connect log tracking, unit eligibility review, unit showings, lease package preparation, conducting lease signings, and other tasks as needed * Field housing inquiries and route them to the appropriate person * Attend training sessions and conferences as required for enhancement of job skills * Comply fully with all WSFSSH confidentiality guidelines with discretion and integrity * Attend supervision, team, and staff meetings * Assist with other duties as neededRequired Skills / Abilities * Familiarity with HUD, Homeless programs, and Section 8 subsidy required * Working knowledge of NYC service programs such as, but not limited to: NYC 15/15, ESSHI, DHS SRO Supportive Services, SPC CoC, NYCs supportive housing application (2010E) * Ability to manage substantial amounts of data such as annual contract rent increases, legal rents, income limit changes, etc. * Ability to prioritize and work independently with minimal supervision * Possess excellent organizational, interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills * Proficiency in Word, Excel, Outlook, Teams, and Internet search/usage Office 365 * Ability to maintain a high level of care and respect for applicants and tenants * Ability to liaise effectively with WSFSSH employees throughout the organization to achieve the WSFSSH Leasing & Compliance Teams goal - The ability to maintain professional relationships and boundaries * Ability to uphold standards of diversity, equity, and inclusion in provision of services * Maintain a commitment to supporting underserved communities who have experience systemic oppression and bias * Bilingual (Spanish) preferredEducation & Experience * High School Diploma/GED required * Minimum of 2 y