AH Associate

Position Summary

The Affordable Housing Associate (Mentor Program) is an entry-level, training-focused position designed for individuals who want to begin a career in the affordable housing industry. Associates participate in a structured mentorship program emphasizing hands-on experience in Occupancy and Compliance.

This program integrates on‑the‑job learning with guided mentorship, E‑learning modules from the RHF Training Menu, and department rotations that provide foundational knowledge of affordable housing operations, compliance standards, and resident service excellence.

Key Responsibilities

Occupancy & Compliance Support

• Assist with the intake, eligibility verification, and maintenance of applicant waitlists.
• Learn key principles of LIHTC and HUD compliance through supervised tasks and structured E‑learning (e.g., Getting Started: Introduction to LIHTC).
• Help organize and maintain resident files to meet regulatory and company standards.
• Observe and support leasing and compliance processes, including interviews, certifications, and audits.
• Aid in preparing compliance documentation for review by funding agencies.

Professional Development & Workplace Skills

• Attend weekly mentorship sessions and progress reviews with program supervisors.
• Uphold RHF’s values, ethical standards, and service philosophy.
• Complete assigned HR, safety, and workplace culture modules (e.g., Respect in the Workplace, Drug-Free Workplace).
• Engage in cross-training with staff from property management, accounting, and resident services departments.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Income Qualification: Learn and assist in verifying applicant income, assets, and household composition for program eligibility.
• Tenant Recertification: Support processing of annual and interim recertifications to ensure compliance with HUD/LIHTC guidelines.
• Application Screening: Review applications, conduct preliminary checks, and maintain accurate waitlists.
• File Maintenance: Ensure documentation is well-organized and audit ready.
• Customer Service: Provide general information to residents on leasing, renewals, and compliance procedures.
• Lease Administration: Assist with move-in/move-out inspections, lease renewals, and documentation updates.

Mentorship & Training Commitment

Associates will complete assigned classroom and E‑learning coursework, including introductory LIHTC, Fair Housing, and Occupancy Specialist training. Employees are expected to pursue at least one certification track (e.g., Tax Credit Specialist or Certified Occupancy Specialist) within 12–24 months of hire under mentor supervision.

Physical Demands and Working Conditions

• Primarily office-based with sedentary work.
• Occasional lifting (up to 20 lbs.) of files or supplies.
• May require limited local travel between sites for training or mentorship activities.

Competencies Developed During Program

• Knowledge of affordable housing program compliance (LIHTC/HUD).
• Customer service and resident relations best practices.
• Basic leasing processes and documentation management.
• Introduction to property operations, vendor coordination, and maintenance requests.
• Entry-level understanding of accounting, reporting, and budgeting fundamentals.
• Fair Housing, safety, and workplace professionalism standards.

Career Path Opportunities

Upon successful completion of the mentorship program, Associates may advance to roles such as:

• Occupancy Specialist clerk / Occupancy Specialist
• Occupancy Compliance Coordinator/ Specialist
• Assistant Property Manager
• Property Manager
• Regional Manager

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED.
• Demonstrated interest in property management, affordable housing, or community services.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and customer service skills.
• Ability to follow procedures and learn within a structured, mentor-led environment.
• Basic computer literacy; ability to use email, Microsoft Office Word, and Excel.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bilingual in English and Spanish (helpful but not required).
• Previous experience in office administration, customer service, or social services.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Superior attention to detail and organizational discipline.
• Strong written and verbal communication abilities.
• Ability to learn and apply federal, state, and local housing regulations (e.g., HUD Handbook 4350.3, Tax Credit Compliance).
• Willingness to work with a diverse population of residents and team members.
• Adaptability to manage changing priorities and multiple assignments.

Compensation:

Actual base salary considers several factors including but not limited to geography, job-related knowledge, experience, and budget. The start of the salary range is typically associated with the minimum experience required.

The role is considered Full Time non-exempt and may be eligible for overtime pay in accordance with federal and state law. The anticipated base pay range for the position is $24.00- $24.00 per hour.

Benefits:

• Competitive pay
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off and holidays
• Retirement savings plan
• Employee assistance and more
• Term life and Voluntary supplemental life insurance 

Why RHF?

At RHF, we are dedicated to making a meaningful difference in the lives of our residents. We strive to create vibrant communities where individuals can thrive, regardless of age or background. With over 60 years of experience in providing affordable housing and supportive services, RHF is a mission-driven organization that focuses on the well-being, independence, and dignity of every resident we serve. We offer a collaborative and supportive work environment, opportunities for professional growth, and a commitment to making a lasting impact in the communities we serve. Join us in our mission to create positive change and improve lives—because at RHF, we believe in making every day better for those who need it most.