Compliance Specialist

Job Title: Compliance Specialist – Affordable Housing (LIHTC / HOME / PSH)

About the Role

We are seeking a detail-oriented Compliance Specialist to support our affordable housing portfolio in Illinois. In this role, you will review and approve resident applications, process annual recertifications and renewals, and prepare and maintain required compliance documentation for properties financed through LIHTC, HOME, Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH), and IHDA programs. You will help ensure our properties stay in good standing with funders, auditors, and regulators.

Key Responsibilities

• Review, verify, and approve applications for eligibility under LIHTC, HOME, PSH, and IHDA program requirements, including income, household composition, and student status rules

• Prepare, review, and process Tenant Income Certifications (TICs) for move-ins, annual recertifications, and interim recertifications

• Complete and maintain Lease-Up / Tenant Occupancy forms and other required program paperwork, including LTO forms and supporting documents

• Manage lease renewals and annual recertification schedules, ensuring all paperwork is completed accurately and on time

• Verify income and assets using third-party verifications and supporting documentation

• Maintain complete, accurate, and audit-ready tenant files

• Monitor unit and household compliance, including rent limits, utility allowances, set-asides, and occupancy requirements

• Prepare for and support IHDA, HUD, and other funder monitoring reviews and file audits; help respond to findings and corrective actions

• Ensure all leasing and notice practices comply with the Illinois Landlord and Tenant Act and applicable local ordinances (including the Chicago RLTO where applicable), as well as Fair Housing laws

• Coordinate with property management, onsite staff, and supportive service providers to resolve compliance issues

• Prepare compliance reports and track key deadlines and program requirements

Required Qualifications

• Hands-on experience with LIHTC compliance, including TICs and recertifications

• Experience with HOME, PSH, and/or IHDA-financed developments

• Working knowledge of Illinois landlord-tenant law and Fair Housing requirements

• Strong attention to detail, organization, and ability to meet deadlines

• Strong written and verbal communication skills

• Proficiency with property management and compliance software (such as Yardi, RealPage, or similar) and Microsoft Office

Certifications

Active housing compliance certifications are preferred (e.g., HCCP, C3P, or NAHMA/SHCM-related credentials). Candidates who do not yet hold these certifications must be willing and able to complete the required coursework and pass the certification exam(s) within a timeframe set by the company.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working with formerly homeless or special-needs populations in a PSH setting

• Prior experience with IHDA audits or monitoring visits

• Associate's or bachelor's degree in a related field, or equivalent experience

What We Offer

• Competitive salary based on experience

• Support and paid time for certification coursework and exam fees

• Opportunity to make a meaningful impact in affordable housing

• Collaborative team environment with growth opportunities

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and welcome applicants of all backgrounds.

Pay: $48,000.00 - $60,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off

Work Location: In person