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 correct identified errors promptly.

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 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.