About Our Opportunity
The City of Asheville is seeking qualified applicants for the Affordable Housing Specialist position in the Housing and Economic Development Department. The purpose of this position is to (1) perform professional functions in the coordination and administrative management of City-funded affordable housing policies, procedures, and programs, (2) support the implementation of initiatives to redevelop City-owned property for affordable housing and (3) support the Affordable Housing Division in accomplishing the City of Asheville’s objectives of creating and preserving affordable housing in the Asheville community. The ideal candidate for this position is well-organized, detail-oriented, skilled at data and file management, an excellent communicator, and has experience in affordable housing development and/or finance. Employee reports to the Affordable Housing Officer.
This position is responsible for the coordination and administrative functions of City-funded affordable housing programs, including the Housing Trust Fund, the Land Use Incentive Grant Program, the Affordable Housing Plan, and the Fee Rebate Program. Work involves processing applications, managing record keeping and legal files; tracking affordable housing projects; preparing agreements and contracts for legal review; creating program reports on outcomes; and providing information and technical assistance to applicants. An important piece of work will be monitoring affordable housing projects for compliance with contracts and program requirements.
This role supports affordable housing development initiatives on City-owned property and provides project support for City-initiated affordable and mixed-income development projects. Work includes processing contracts and agreements with developers, funding partners, and allied agencies, non-profits, and for-profit entities; managing consultants and contractors engaged to do work on the City’s behalf, including bid solicitation, evaluation, award, and negotiation; preparing website and communications materials for project(s); and monitoring project progress.
This position’s work is supported by close guidance, partnership, and supervision of the Affordable Housing Officer position and relies on robust internal working relationships with the City’s legal, finance, development services, and planning and urban design departments to accomplish objectives. Independent judgment and initiative are imperative in supporting long- and short-range plans for the City's affordable housing initiatives. Presentation skills, tact, and courtesy are required in frequent dealings with elected officials, other City departments, associated agencies, and the general public. Work is performed with considerable independence and is evaluated by assessing the effectiveness and efficiency of affordable housing programs.
Work Schedule: Generally Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.; however, this position requires some evening attendance at community meetings and related meetings. Flexible/remote work options are available.
Initial review of applications will occur as received. This position will remain open until filled or until a sufficient number of applications are received.