Certified Occupancy Specialist (COS)
Pico Union Housing Corporation
(HUD Section 8 PBRA / LIHTC / Blended Properties)
Position Classification
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
This position is classified as non-exempt under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). The Certified Occupancy Specialist is eligible for overtime compensation in accordance with federal and state wage and hour laws. Overtime must be pre-approved by management.
Position Summary
The Certified Occupancy Specialist (COS) is responsible for managing occupancy compliance for properties operating under HUD Section 8 Project-Based Rental Assistance (PBRA), LIHTC (Low-Income Housing Tax Credit), and blended funding layers.
The COS ensures strict adherence to HUD Handbook 4350.3, IRS Section 42 regulations, and all applicable regulatory agreements. The role requires expertise in EIV compliance, waiting list management, recertifications, and preparation for HUD Management and Occupancy Reviews (MOR) and state agency audits.
Each Occupancy Specialist must review and sign this job description upon hire.
Core Responsibilities
HUD Section 8 (PBRA)
- Process move-ins, annual and interim recertifications.
- Calculate rent and assistance accurately.
- Submit and monitor TRACS transmissions.
- Maintain MOR-ready files at all times.
LIHTC Compliance
- Complete initial and annual certifications.
- Apply IRS Section 42 income and rent limits.
- Ensure compliance with extended use agreements.
- Maintain files for state agency audits.
Blended Properties
- Apply the most restrictive program requirements.
- Coordinate layered funding compliance.
- Maintain property-specific regulatory binders.
EIV Compliance
- Run and review required EIV reports (Income, IVT, Existing Tenant Search).
- Resolve discrepancies and document corrections.
- Maintain EIV access security and safeguard resident data.
Waiting List Administration
- Maintain accurate, chronological waiting lists.
- Document preferences and eligibility screening.
- Ensure affirmative fair housing compliance.
Self-Auditing & MOR Preparation
- Conduct internal file audits quarterly.
- Correct deficiencies proactively.
- Maintain audit-ready files (physical and electronic).
- Track recertification deadlines.
Required Qualifications
- Active Certified Occupancy Specialist (COS) designation.
- 2–3 years of HUD PBRA and LIHTC experience.
- Experience preparing for MOR and state compliance audits.
- Strong working knowledge of EIV.
- High level of accuracy and organization.
- Bilingual in English and Spanish is a MUST.
Pay: $28.00 - $38.00 per hour
Application Question(s):
- Do you have a COS certificate?
- Do you have 2–3 years of HUD PBRA and LIHTC experience?
- Do you speak English and Spanish?
Work Location: In person
