Affordable Housing Compliance Manager Job Description (Responsibilities, Skills, Duties & Sample Template)

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If you’ve Googled “affordable housing compliance manager job description”, you’ve probably seen dozens of generic posts. The problem? Most of them don’t actually help you attract a great compliance manager—they just recycle the same bullet points, vague wording, and lifeless templates.

But here’s the truth: top talent doesn’t get excited by checklists. They want clarity, transparency, and a role that feels meaningful. If your job description looks like every other one online, the best candidates will scroll right past it.

That’s why before we dive in, I recommend you check out our full guide on how to write a job post that attracts top talent , Link https://workscreen.io/how-to-write-a-job-post/  — it breaks down why generic job descriptions fail, and shows you how to make your posts more compelling, human, and effective.

In this article, we’ll take those principles and apply them to a very specific role: the Affordable Housing Compliance Manager. You’ll get clear definitions, sample job descriptions (for both experienced and entry-level candidates), a breakdown of why they work, and even a quick copy-paste template you can use right away.

By the end, you’ll know how to create a compliance manager job post that doesn’t just check legal boxes—but actually resonates with the kind of professionals you want on your team.

Build a winning team—without the hiring headache.

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What An Affordable Housing Compliance Manager Actually Does - Their Duties Explained

An Affordable Housing Compliance Manager is the person who makes sure your housing program or property stays compliant with federal, state, and local housing regulations. That means keeping track of everything from income eligibility and rent limits to reporting requirements and fair housing laws.

But here’s the part most job descriptions leave out: this role isn’t just about paperwork and checklists. A great compliance manager is also a guardian of trust—ensuring residents get fair access to housing while protecting your organization from costly violations, penalties, or reputational risks.

In plain English: they’re the bridge between regulators, your organization, and the residents you serve. They make sure your affordable housing program not only runs smoothly, but also aligns with its mission—providing safe, fair, and affordable homes for people who need them most.

Key traits that matter just as much as technical knowledge? Attention to detail, integrity, problem-solving, and clear communication. Compliance managers often need to explain complex rules in a way that property staff, tenants, and leadership can all understand.

Two Great Affordable Housing Compliance Manager Job Description Templates

We’ll provide two tailored job description options:

1.✅ Option 1: For employers looking to hire an experienced candidates with prior experience.

2.Option 2: For employers open to hiring entry-level candidates or those willing to train someone with potential.

✅ Job Description Template 1 (Experienced Candidate Version)

Job Title: Affordable Housing Compliance Manager – Shape Fair Housing at Harborview Communities
 💼 Location: Remote (HQ: Denver, CO)
 🕒 Type: Full-Time
 💰 Salary Range: $72,000–$88,000 + Benefits

🎥 Hear from Our Team
 (Insert Loom/YouTube video of the Compliance Director or HR Lead sharing why this role matters, the impact it has on residents, and what the candidate experience is like. Example: “At Harborview, compliance isn’t just about checklists—it’s about making sure families have access to safe, fair, and affordable housing. We’re excited to welcome someone who shares that mission.”)

Who We Are

Harborview Communities develops, manages, and supports affordable housing properties across five states. For over 20 years, we’ve been committed to providing safe, dignified homes for families, seniors, and individuals who need them most. We believe compliance is at the heart of that mission—because staying aligned with HUD, LIHTC, and state regulations means keeping doors open for the people we serve.

What You’ll Do

As our Compliance Manager, you’ll:

  • Oversee property-level compliance for HUD, LIHTC, Section 8, and other affordable housing programs

  • Review and approve resident files for eligibility, recertifications, and income verification

  • Conduct internal audits and prepare for external monitoring visits

  • Train property staff on compliance requirements and best practices

  • Maintain detailed reporting for state and federal agencies

  • Partner with leadership to ensure compliance strategies align with company goals

What We Look For

  • 3+ years of affordable housing compliance experience (LIHTC & HUD required)

  • Strong knowledge of Fair Housing laws and affordable housing regulations

  • Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills

  • Strong communication skills—you can explain complex compliance issues in plain English

  • Housing Credit Certified Professional (HCCP) certification is a plus

Why This Role Is Worth Your Time

At Harborview, compliance isn’t just a box to check—it’s a way to serve families and communities. You’ll be trusted with meaningful work that protects our residents and strengthens our mission. We offer:

  • Competitive salary ($72k–$88k based on experience)

  • Health, dental, and vision insurance

  • Paid time off (starting at 20 days annually)

  • 401(k) with employer match

  • Professional development and certification support

📥 How to Apply
 We care about making hiring fair, transparent, and respectful. That’s why we use WorkScreen. Apply here: [Workscreen Apply Link]. Complete a short evaluation so we can understand your skills directly—not just your résumé.

✅ Job Description Template 2 (Entry-Level / Willing-to-Train Candidate Version)

Job Title: Affordable Housing Compliance Associate – Learn & Grow With Harborview Communities
 💼 Location: Remote (HQ: Denver, CO)
 🕒 Type: Full-Time
 💰 Salary Range: $48,000–$58,000 + Benefits

🎥 Hear from Our Team
 (Insert Loom/YouTube video of a current Compliance Associate or Team Lead: “I started here without prior compliance experience, and the training I received gave me the skills to grow into a manager-level role. If you’re detail-oriented and want to build a meaningful career, this is a great place to start.”)

Who We Are

Harborview Communities develops, manages, and supports affordable housing properties across five states. For over 20 years, we’ve been committed to providing safe, dignified homes for families, seniors, and individuals who need them most. Compliance is a big part of that mission, and we’re excited to train the right person who’s passionate about helping people and eager to learn.

What You’ll Do

As our Compliance Associate, you’ll:

  • Assist with reviewing resident files for eligibility and recertifications

  • Support property teams in preparing compliance documentation

  • Help track deadlines and reporting requirements

  • Learn the fundamentals of HUD, LIHTC, and Section 8 compliance

  • Partner with senior compliance managers and receive ongoing mentorship

What We Look For

  • 1+ year of office, admin, or property management experience (housing background a plus, but not required)

  • Strong attention to detail and willingness to learn

  • Clear communicator—you can explain details in a helpful, professional way

  • Organized and proactive—able to manage deadlines without micromanagement

  • Passion for affordable housing and serving communities

Why This Role Is Worth Your Time

This isn’t just a “starter job.” It’s the beginning of a career path in affordable housing—a field where demand for compliance professionals continues to grow. We offer:

  • Competitive salary ($48k–$58k based on experience)

  • Health, dental, and vision insurance

  • Paid time off (starting at 20 days annually)

  • 401(k) with employer match

  • Structured training and mentorship programs

  • Opportunities for growth into compliance manager or director-level roles

📥 How to Apply
 We care about giving every candidate a fair shot. Apply here: [Workscreen Apply Link]. Through WorkScreen, you’ll go through a short, skill-based evaluation designed to show us how you think and work—not just what’s on your résumé.

Don’t let bad hires slow you down.

WorkScreen helps you find the right people—fast, easy, and stress-free. 

Why These Affordable Housing Compliance Manager Job Posts Work

  1. The Job Titles Are Clear and Specific

    • Instead of just “Compliance Manager” or “Compliance Associate,” the titles highlight affordable housing and mission-driven context.

    • Example: “Affordable Housing Compliance Manager – Shape Fair Housing at Harborview Communities.” This instantly signals the type of compliance, the sector, and the purpose. Candidates know it’s not corporate finance compliance or healthcare compliance—they know exactly what they’re applying for.

  2. Human, Story-Driven Introductions

    • Both posts open with a video from the team—something most employers overlook. Seeing a leader or peer speak directly to candidates makes the opportunity feel personal and real.

    • Instead of launching into dry company facts, the intros connect compliance work to the bigger mission: keeping families in safe, affordable homes. That emotional weight resonates with mission-driven professionals.

  3. Transparent Salary Ranges

    • Both versions include salary upfront ($72k–$88k for experienced, $48k–$58k for entry-level).

    • This builds trust, filters out mismatched applicants, and signals to serious candidates that the company values transparency.

  4. Responsibilities Show Impact, Not Just Tasks

    • The posts don’t just say “review files” or “complete audits.” They frame it as: “protecting residents, ensuring fair access, keeping properties compliant with HUD and LIHTC.”

    • This connects daily tasks to the larger mission—making the work feel meaningful rather than mechanical.

  5. Tailored Requirements for Different Candidate Pools

    • The experienced version emphasizes HUD/LIHTC expertise, certifications, and leadership.

    • The entry-level version emphasizes attention to detail, willingness to learn, and growth potential.

    • This dual approach widens the funnel without lowering standards—it meets candidates where they are.

  6. The “Why This Role Is Worth Your Time” Section Sells the Job

    • Many job descriptions stop at duties. These posts add a pitch section—clear benefits, growth opportunities, culture, and real reasons why someone should care.

    • For experienced candidates, the emphasis is on ownership, trust, and professional recognition.

    • For entry-level candidates, the emphasis is on training, mentorship, and career progression.

  7. Candidate Experience Is Prioritized

    • Both posts reassure applicants they’ll be treated fairly and respectfully during the hiring process.

    • By using WorkScreen, the company shows it values skills over résumés—giving all candidates a fair shot while filtering out low-effort or AI-generated applications.

  8. Personal Touch With Video

    • Including a Loom/YouTube clip from the hiring manager or team adds authenticity. Candidates get to “meet” the people they might work with before they even apply—something that instantly differentiates these posts from 99% of job ads online.

Example of a Bad Affordable Housing Compliance Manager Job Description (And Why It Falls Short)

❌ Bad Job Post Example

Job Title: Compliance Manager
 Company: Harborview Communities
 Job Type: Full-Time
 Deadline: Open until filled

Job Summary

We are seeking a Compliance Manager to oversee affordable housing compliance at our company. The ideal candidate will manage files, ensure regulations are followed, and oversee compliance staff.

Key Responsibilities

  • Review files and ensure compliance

  • Submit required reports to agencies

  • Monitor deadlines and documentation

  • Train staff as needed

Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree in business or related field

  • 3–5 years of compliance experience preferred

  • Knowledge of affordable housing programs

  • Strong organizational skills

How to Apply

Please email your résumé and cover letter to HR@harborview.com. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

❌ Why This Job Post Fails

  1. Generic Title

    • “Compliance Manager” is vague. Compliance in what industry? Finance? Healthcare? Without specifying affordable housing, this could attract the wrong applicants.

  2. Cold, Impersonal Introduction

    • The summary is dry and offers no context, mission, or reason why the role matters. It doesn’t connect with candidates or highlight the community impact of affordable housing.

  3. No Salary or Benefits Information

    • Leaving out compensation feels outdated and creates mistrust. It forces candidates to apply “blind,” which often turns away serious applicants.

  4. Responsibilities Are Too Broad

    • “Review files” and “submit reports” are technically accurate but lifeless. They don’t show impact, importance, or how the role contributes to the mission.

  5. Requirements Feel Like a Checklist

    • There’s no flexibility. It may discourage strong candidates who don’t have a degree but do have relevant experience. It feels rigid and uninviting.

  6. Dismissive Hiring Process

    • “Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted” communicates a lack of respect for applicants. This is the fastest way to signal poor candidate experience.

  7. No Personality, No Culture

    • There’s no mention of values, team dynamics, or what it’s like to work at the company. To a candidate, it feels like a ghost posting.

  8. Weak Call to Action

    • Ending with a cold “email us” doesn’t inspire confidence. It feels like the company isn’t invested in making the process clear or engaging.

Bonus Tips to Make Your Compliance Manager Job Post Stand Out

Even with a strong structure, a few extra touches can take your job post from “good” to “truly memorable.” These are the little details that show candidates you care about their experience.

1. Add a Security & Privacy Notice

Job seekers are more cautious than ever about scams. A short statement can build instant trust:
 “We take the security and privacy of all job applicants seriously. We will never ask for payment, banking details, or personal financial information at any point in the hiring process.”

✅ Why it works: Candidates feel safe and respected.

2. Mention Leave Days or Flex Time

Candidates don’t just look at pay—they look at balance. Even one line makes your role more attractive:
 “Enjoy 20 days of PTO each year, plus 2 personal flex days to recharge.”

✅ Why it works: It signals that you value rest, not just output.

3. Highlight Training & Growth Opportunities

Especially for compliance roles, professional development is key. Add a line like:
 “We invest in your growth. From HCCP certification support to ongoing compliance workshops, you’ll have opportunities to build your career while making an impact.”

✅ Why it works: Ambitious candidates want to know you’ll help them level up.

4. Use a Short Video From the Team

This could be a Loom from the hiring manager, or even a casual intro from the compliance team.
 “Meet the team you’ll be working with!”

✅ Why it works: It humanizes your company and makes the job feel less like words on a page, more like an invitation.

Here is an example that we used in our master guide on how to write a great job post description , you can check it out here https://www.loom.com/share/ba401b65b7f943b68a91fc6b04a62ad4

5. Show Respect in the Hiring Process

Instead of the cold “only shortlisted candidates will be contacted,” try:
 “We respect your time. Every applicant will receive a response from us, no matter the outcome.”

✅ Why it works: Most candidates have been ghosted before. Standing out here builds huge goodwill.

Should You Use AI to Write Your Job Description?

It’s tempting to fire up ChatGPT or an ATS “AI job description generator” and click Create. In seconds, you’ve got a job post ready to publish.

But here’s the problem: when you rely on AI alone, you almost always end up with generic, soulless content that looks exactly like every other posting online.

That creates three big risks:

  • You attract the wrong applicants. Lazy, AI-stamped posts tend to pull in low-effort, mass applicants who aren’t truly aligned with the role.

  • You turn off serious candidates. Top talent can spot templated fluff a mile away. It signals your company isn’t thoughtful about hiring.

  • You hurt your employer brand. A job description is often the first impression someone gets of your organization. If it feels copy-pasted, so does your culture.

The Right Way to Use AI

AI can be powerful—but only if you give it real input. Think of it as your editor, not your author.

Here’s how to use it the smart way:

  1. Feed AI the raw details.

    • What your company does

    • What the role entails

    • Your company values

    • The traits of your ideal candidate

    • Salary and benefits

    • Your hiring process

  2. Prompt AI with context.
    Example:
     “Help me write a job post for our company, Harborview Communities. We’re hiring an Affordable Housing Compliance Manager to oversee LIHTC and HUD compliance. Our culture is mission-driven, collaborative, and growth-focused. We want to attract candidates who are detail-oriented, passionate about affordable housing, and strong communicators. We offer $72,000–$88,000, health benefits, 20 PTO days, and certification support. Here are a few notes I’ve drafted: [Insert Notes]. Please refine and organize into a clear, engaging job description.”

  3. Customize & humanize.

    • Add a Loom video.

    • Infuse your culture and mission.

    • Adjust the tone so it feels like you, not a robot.

When you do this, AI becomes a polisher, not a crutch. The end result? A job description that’s professional, structured, and still authentically yours.

Smart Hiring Starts Here

WorkScreen simplifies the hiring process, helping you quickly identify top talent while eliminating low-quality applications. By saving you countless hours and reducing the risk of bad hires, it empowers you to build a team that delivers results

Need a Quick Copy-Paste Job Description Template?

We get it—sometimes you just need something fast. Maybe you’ve already gone through this guide and understand what a strong job post looks like. But you also want a solid starting point you can copy, paste, and tailor to your company in just a few minutes.

That’s what this is.

✏️ Important Reminder:
 Don’t copy this word-for-word and expect magic.
 This is a foundation, not a final draft.
 Add a Loom video, inject your team culture, and edit the details to reflect your actual company.

In this section, you’ll find two ready-to-use job description templates for quick copy-paste use — but please remember, like we mentioned above, don’t just copy them word-for-word and expect results.

Think of these as starting points, not final drafts.

  • Option 1: A more conversational, culture-first job description that highlights personality and team fit.
  • Option 2: A more structured format, including a Job Brief, Responsibilities, and Requirements for a traditional approach.

✅ Option 1: Conversational, Culture-First Job Description

Job Title: Affordable Housing Compliance Manager – Protecting Homes & Communities at [Company Name]
 💼 Location: [City, State or Remote]
 🕒 Type: [Full-Time/Part-Time]
 💰 Salary Range: [$X,000 – $X,000 + Benefits]

🎥 Meet the Team
 (Insert Loom/YouTube video link from the Compliance Director, Team Lead, or HR Manager sharing why compliance matters and what it’s like to work here.)

Who We Are

At [Company Name], we believe affordable housing is more than a program—it’s a promise. For over [X years], we’ve worked to ensure families, seniors, and individuals have access to safe and dignified housing. Compliance isn’t just paperwork for us—it’s how we keep that promise and protect the communities we serve.

What You’ll Do

As our Affordable Housing Compliance Manager, you’ll be the bridge between regulators, our team, and our residents. You’ll:

  • Oversee compliance with HUD, LIHTC, Section 8, and other housing programs

  • Review and approve tenant files for eligibility and recertifications

  • Lead audits, monitor reporting, and prepare for agency reviews

  • Train property teams on compliance best practices

  • Protect the company’s mission by ensuring every detail meets regulatory standards

What We Look For

  • [X]+ years of affordable housing compliance experience (HUD/LIHTC required)

  • Knowledge of Fair Housing laws and housing program rules

  • Strong attention to detail, organization, and documentation

  • Clear communicator—you can explain complex requirements simply

  • Certification (HCCP, SHCM, or equivalent) is a plus

Why You’ll Love Working Here

At [Company Name], you won’t just manage compliance—you’ll protect access to housing for people who need it most. We offer:

  • Competitive pay ($X–$X based on experience)

  • Health, dental, and vision insurance

  • Generous paid time off

  • Professional development & certification support

  • A mission-driven team that values your expertise

📥 How to Apply
 Apply through our WorkScreen link: [Insert Link]. Complete a short evaluation that helps us understand your skills—not just your résumé. We respond to every applicant because we believe hiring should be fair and respectful.

✅ Option 2: Structured “Job Brief + Responsibilities + Requirements” Format

Job Title: Affordable Housing Compliance Manager
 Location: [City, State or Remote]
 Type: Full-Time
 Salary: $[X,000] – $[X,000] + Benefits

Job Brief

We are seeking an Affordable Housing Compliance Manager to ensure our properties remain compliant with HUD, LIHTC, and other affordable housing program regulations. This role requires exceptional attention to detail, strong regulatory knowledge, and the ability to communicate compliance standards across teams.

Key Responsibilities

  • Manage and oversee compliance for HUD, LIHTC, and Section 8 programs

  • Review tenant files for eligibility and recertifications

  • Conduct internal audits and prepare for external monitoring

  • Submit required reports to state and federal agencies

  • Provide compliance training for property and admin staff

Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience

  • 3+ years of compliance management experience in affordable housing

  • Strong knowledge of Fair Housing laws and housing regulations

  • Excellent organizational and communication skills

  • Relevant certification (HCCP, SHCM, or equivalent) preferred

Benefits

  • Salary range: $[X,000] – $[X,000]

  • Health, dental, and vision insurance

  • Paid time off (20+ days annually)

  • 401(k) with employer match

  • Professional growth and training support

📥 How to Apply
 Apply via our WorkScreen link: [Insert Link]. We value transparency and respect your time, so every applicant will hear back from us regardless of the outcome.

Make Hiring Compliance Managers Easier with WorkScreen.io

Writing a great job description is just the first step. The real challenge begins once the applications start pouring in. If you’ve ever tried to hire for a compliance role, you know how tough it can be:

  • Dozens of résumés that all look the same

  • Candidates who copy-paste buzzwords but don’t have the real skills

  • Wasted hours reviewing low-effort or irrelevant applications

That’s exactly where WorkScreen.io comes in.

With WorkScreen, you can:

Quickly identify your most promising candidates
 WorkScreen automatically evaluates, scores, and ranks applicants on a performance-based leaderboard—making it easy to spot top talent, save time, and make smarter, data-driven hiring decisions.

Test real-world skills in one click
 Workscreen allows you to easily administer one-click skill tests. This way you can Assess candidates based on real-world ability—not just credentials like résumés and past experience. This helps you hire more confidently and holistically.

Filter out low-effort & AI-generated applications
 Workscreen automatically eliminates low-effort applicants—including those who use AI Tools to apply, copy-paste answers, or rely on “one-click apply.” This way, you focus only on genuine, committed, and high-quality candidates—helping you avoid costly hiring mistakes.

Save time and hire with confidence
 No more endless résumé reviews or guesswork. You get a shortlist of candidates who’ve already proven themselves against the job’s requirements.

👉 If you’re ready to hire smarter—not just faster

 Create a compelling job post, share your link, and let WorkScreen do the heavy lifting so you can focus on choosing the best hire.

Affordable Housing Compliance Manager Job Description - FAQs

A strong compliance manager needs more than just regulatory knowledge. The best ones combine technical expertise with human skills.

  • Attention to detail: Compliance work means spotting small errors that could cause big penalties.

  • Regulatory knowledge: Deep understanding of HUD, LIHTC, Section 8, and Fair Housing laws.

  • Communication skills: Ability to explain complex rules clearly to staff, leadership, and sometimes residents.

  • Problem-solving: Compliance challenges often require creative, fair solutions.

  • Integrity & accountability: This role is about trust—protecting both the organization and the people it serves.

  • Leadership: Whether training staff or guiding audits, compliance managers need to influence and mentor others.

  • Salaries vary depending on location, company size, and experience, but most compliance managers in affordable housing earn between $65,000–$90,000 annually. Entry-level compliance associates typically start around $45,000–$58,000, while senior managers with certifications and 5+ years of experience can earn upwards of $95,000+.

    • Certifications aren’t always required, but they’re often preferred and can make candidates much more competitive. Some common ones include:

      • HCCP (Housing Credit Certified Professional)

      • SHCM (Specialist in Housing Credit Management)

      • COS (Certified Occupancy Specialist)

      These demonstrate mastery of affordable housing compliance standards and can help with career advancement

  • Yes. Transparency builds trust and attracts more qualified applicants. Studies consistently show that job posts with salary ranges receive more applications and higher-quality candidates. For compliance roles, where expertise is specialized, being upfront about pay helps filter out mismatches early.

  • A Compliance Manager typically oversees compliance across multiple properties or programs, leads audits, and trains staff.

  • A Compliance Associate usually supports the manager by preparing files, tracking deadlines, and learning the rules.
    Many associates grow into manager roles after gaining experience.

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Author’s Details

Mike K.

Mike is an expert in hiring with a passion for building high-performing teams that deliver results. He specializes in streamlining recruitment processes, making it easy for businesses to identify and secure top talent. Dedicated to innovation and efficiency, Mike leverages his expertise to empower organizations to hire with confidence and drive sustainable growth.

Hire Easy. Hire Right. Hire Fast.

Stop wasting time on unqualified candidates. WorkScreen.io streamlines your hiring process, helping you identify top talent quickly and confidently. With automated evaluations , applicant rankings and 1-click skill tests, you’ll save time, avoid bad hires, and build a team that delivers results.

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