Intake and Eligibility Specialist

Breaking Ground is the largest developer and manager of permanent supportive housing in New York. Since its founding in 1990, Breaking Ground is regarded as industry leaders in the marketing, lease-up, quality assurance and compliance for projects financed through the federal Low Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) program. The Leasing and Compliance Team oversees the marketing, tenant selection, and compliance for projects as well as annual compliance and recertification for buildings.

Breaking Ground operates nearly 4,000 units of housing across New York City, along with housing in upstate New York and Connecticut. Supportive housing - affordable housing paired with wraparound services designed to help people maintain their homes for the long-term - is widely recognized as a proven and cost-effective solution to chronic homelessness.

Reporting to the Leasing Manager, the Intake and Eligibility Specialist screens leasing applicants for a portfolio of Breaking Ground's supportive housing and affordable housing that is managed by Breaking Ground. The Intake and Eligibility Specialist works directly with affordable and special needs applicants assisting them with the housing application process. 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: 

• Determine initial eligibility of applicants by reviewing initial verifications of applicants’ housing, income, and assets
• Create and send initial eligible and ineligible letters to applicants 
• Prepare, send, and track interview invite letters for eligible applicants 
• Schedule and conduct applicant interviews 
• Facilitate collection and submission of required applicant documents
• Contact applicants to update documents as needed
• Perform credit and criminal background checks
• Confirm applicant’s eligibility and conduct lease signings
• Conduct unit showings
• Perform other duties as assigned

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: 

• High school diploma or equivalent required
• 2 years of comparable work experience in supportive housing, property management, social services, or a closely related field preferred
• Working knowledge of Low-Income Housing Tax Credits and Section 8 preferred. Required: Must obtain LIHTC certification within the first year of employment. Breaking Ground will pay certification fees
• Detail oriented and organized 
• Strong writing and analytical skills 
• Ability to interact effectively with applicants 
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite programs including Word, Excel, Outlook, and Microsoft Teams