Assistant Community Manager - Gary, IN

Assistant Community Manager

Job Description

Revised January 2026

Organization Overview

Communities First, Inc. is a Michigan-based nonprofit 501(c)(3) whose mission is to build healthy, vibrant communities through economic development, affordable housing, and innovative programming. CFI is committed to providing safe, quality affordable housing, increasing economic opportunities, and improving the quality of life for the populations we serve.

Job Summary

The Assistant Community Manager supports the Community Manager in the day-to-day operations and administration of CFI-owned and managed properties. This role assists with leasing, compliance, resident relations, reporting, and coordination with maintenance and service partners to ensure properties operate efficiently, remain compliant, and provide high-quality service to residents. The Assistant Community Manager acts as a key support to ensure operational continuity and resident satisfaction.

Essential Functions

Leasing & Occupancy Support

• Assist with tenant selection activities including application intake, file review, unit showings, leasing paperwork, and unit transfers

• Support timely processing of move-ins, move-outs, and waitlist management

• Maintain accurate leasing documentation and resident files

Compliance & Certifications

• Assist with income certifications and recertifications for LIHTC, Section 8, supportive housing, and other rental assistance programs

• Gather and verify third-party income and asset documentation (employers, banks, government agencies, etc.)

• Maintain certification data in MSHDA's Certification Online System and other required databases

• Support audit preparation and respond to file review requests under the direction of the Community Manager

Resident Relations & Customer Service

• Serve as a point of contact for residents, responding to questions, concerns, and service requests

• Assist with resident retention efforts, eviction prevention strategies, and payment plan coordination

• Support enforcement of lease compliance, including notices and documentation

Maintenance & Operations Coordination

• Submit and track maintenance work orders; follow up to ensure timely completion

• Coordinate unit readiness and turnover activities with maintenance staff

• Assist with inspections and document findings as directed

Administrative & Reporting Support

• Assist with preparation and submission of weekly, monthly, and site-level reports

• Support accurate recordkeeping, data entry, and file organization

• Participate in on-call rotation as required

Team & Organizational Support

• Collaborate with service partners, case managers, and internal departments

• Support Community Manager with operational tasks and special projects

• Perform other duties as assigned to support property and organizational goals

Education

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree preferred

• Relevant experience may be substituted for formal education

Certificates and Licenses

• Valid driver's license required

• Housing compliance certifications (COS, AHM, LIHTC) preferred or willingness to obtain within a specified timeframe

Required Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Training, and Experience

• Strong customer service and interpersonal skills

• Attention to detail and ability to manage multiple priorities

• Basic understanding of affordable housing programs (LIHTC, Section 8, supportive housing preferred)

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) and property management software

• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism

• Effective written and verbal communication skills

• Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced, community-focused environment

• Flexibility and willingness to learn and grow within property management

Essential Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs

• Ability to sit, stand, walk properties, and work at a computer for extended periods

Equal Employment Opportunity & ADA Compliance

Communities First, Inc. provides equal employment opportunity to all individuals regardless of race, color, creed, religion, gender, age, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Reasonable accommodations will be provided to qualified individuals with disabilities unless doing so would cause undue hardship.

Disclaimer

This job description does not list all duties of the position. Duties may be added or modified at any time. This job description is not a contract of employment, and employment with Communities First, Inc. is at-will.