Compliance Specialist

Job Description:

Division: Central Office

Status: Non-exempt

Reports to: Director of Affordable Housing Compliance

Position Summary

Under the general supervision of the Director of Affordable Housing Compliance, the Leasing and Compliance Specialist supports the Housing Division of National Church Residences by ensuring compliance with all applicable state, federal, and accreditation regulations. This role focuses on Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) compliance, lease-up, and ongoing property support for tax credit properties.

Essential Functions

• Ensure compliance with company policies, fair housing laws, and LIHTC Section 42 rules.

• Support lease-up and first-year file completion according to project Proforma timelines.

• Review and process applications in Yardi, verifying completeness and eligibility; request missing information as needed.

• Initiate and track 3rd-party verifications and confirm income qualification for applicants.

• Assist Regional Property Leaders (RPL) and Regional Vice Presidents (RVP) with newly acquired properties to achieve compliance goals.

• Manage tenant-based and project-based vouchers, ensuring timely submission of RTA packets and proper subsidy payments.

• Support onsite staff with Tax Credit Audits and Inspections.

• Collaborate with onsite staff to gather utility data and update utility allowances annually using HUD or PHA models.

• Conduct LIHTC file reviews and prepare required reporting for state housing agencies or financial reporting obligations.

• Serve as liaison between Limited Partnerships, Compliance Department, and sites to resolve issues identified during first-year file reviews.

• Provide Yardi and HUD system support.

• Perform other duties as assigned.

Non-Essential Functions

• Report significant compliance issues to supervisor.

• Support additional projects to enhance property performance.

• Stay current with handbook updates, code changes, and other regulations impacting affordable housing compliance.

• Assist in other compliance tasks as assigned to support the Housing Division.

Expectations

• Demonstrated expertise in Section 42, LIHTC regulations, HOME program, Bond financing, and HUD Handbook 4350.3 as they relate to resident file compliance and unit qualification.

• Maintain a professional, positive demeanor, manage time effectively, and foster a collaborative team environment.

• Adhere to all company policies, the Employee Information Guide (EIG), Code of Conduct, and applicable federal, state, and local regulations.

• Ensure resident rights are respected, report complaints, allegations of abuse, or misuse of resident property to appropriate supervisors.

• Complete all annual training requirements (Compliance, Privacy, Security, HIPAA) and demonstrate professional behavior consistent with company standards.

Qualifications

Education & Experience:

• Associate's degree preferred or equivalent experience in Affordable Housing.

• Minimum of 4 years' experience in the Affordable Housing industry, including LIHTC housing.

• Active Housing Credit Certified Professional (HCCP) certification.

Skills & Knowledge:

• Strong knowledge of LIHTC, HUD, TRACS, and EIV.

• Yardi experience required.

• Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Office tools.

• Expertise in tax credit delivery, mixed financing, HOME, Bonds, acquisitions/rehabs, correcting non-compliance, and 8823s.

• Strong organizational, customer service, project management, research, problem-solving, and strategic thinking skills.

• High ethical standards, confidentiality, and professionalism.

Benefits: Comprehensive health coverage (medical, dental, vision, life), paid time off and holidays, 401(k) with up to 5% company match, tuition reimbursement, plus employee discounts and wellness programs.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, military status, disability, genetic information and/or any other characteristics protected by applicable law.