Description

Apply Early! The first review of applications begins December 14, 2022.

At the Department of Commerce, we are creative, collaborative, and trusted. We identify opportunities to deliver critical funding and services to strengthen communities, we cultivate an environment in which we continuously learn, and we own our work.

The Housing Division (HD) partners with local governments, Tribes, housing authorities and nonprofits to develop and preserve affordable housing, promote individual and family self-sufficiency, and reduce adult and youth homelessness.

This Commerce Specialist 3 works within the Multifamily Housing Unit (MHU) of HD, and is responsible for specific tasks within the State Housing Trust Fund (HTF) and other special housing initiatives as required. This position implements program priorities and policies to ensure multifamily affordable housing projects remain viable and in compliance over the length of the project commitment period.

This posting may be used to fill other vacant positions within 60 days once position is filled.

Duties

This Commerce Specialist 3 exercises independent judgment and discretion regarding the interpretation and implementation of policies and regulations. Here are some of the duties performed in this role.

Program, Project and Contract Management

• Administer the Housing Preservation Program (HPP) and other special legislative initiatives.
• Develop application, develop and coordinate the application review process, make recommendations to management for the allocation of HPP funding to awardees.
• Review project and organizational information, Capital Needs Assessments, and proposals for building improvements or repairs for affordable multifamily rental properties.
• Provide outreach and technical assistance in response to stakeholder and applicant inquires.
• Negotiate contract terms and ensure awardees meet all programmatic pre-contracting requirements.
• Undertake the management of new projects, as assigned, in each funding round with an average of 25 projects in various stages—pre-development, development, construction, or placed-in-service—actively managed. This includes consistent and timely updates to Commerce database systems and project files (electronic and physical).
• Coordinate internal project transfer from project management to asset management team.
• Coordinate between MHU contract specialists and awardee representatives to ensure accurate drafting and execution of contract and other legal documents. Coordinate and communicate with other private and public financing partners and third party consultants involved in preservation and rehab-construction projects. Troubleshoot and problem-solve issues as they arise through the contracting and contract management timeframe.
• Facilitate real estate closings and coordinate escrow processing.
• Review, analyze and approve reimbursement requests according to MHU guidelines; update applicable data systems; process for payment. Ensure payment of awarded funds aligns with progress of construction and rehab activities.

Manage Special Projects as Assigned

• Coordinate and collaborate with MHU team members and HD staff for the development and revision to processes, procedure documents, and workload and performance management tracking tools, by using process improvement methodologies.
• Assist with writing Request for Qualifications and Quotations (RFQQs), Request for Proposals (RFPs), and Notice of Funding Availability (NOFAs) in response to legislative provisos or requirements. Implement proviso programs.
• Ensure project and contract data are updated and maintained within MHU data systems. Maintain knowledge and understanding of industry best practices related to affordable housing real estate development and underwriting, the Housing Trust Fund, and the federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credit program requirements.
• Participate in unit and team work groups.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

• 
  Bachelor Degree AND three years of professional experience in community, trade or economic development with a focus in affordable housing, housing finance, real estate, contracting, or in a related field. If the applicant does not have a Bachelor’s Degree, seven years of professional experience, or seven years total of a combination of higher education and professional experience as described
• A graduate or advanced degree may substitute for one year of the required professional experience.
• Experience with and demonstrated understanding of multifamily/rental housing development and lending, and related real estate transactions and legal documentation.

Preferred/Desired Qualifications:

• Good understanding of state and federal low-income housing program regulations.
• Experience reviewing not-for-profit financial reports (annual audits, financial statements, cash flow).
• Knowledge of agencies, institutions, and processes involved in affordable housing development.
• Proficiency in verbal and written communication skills to clearly and succinctly document and describe processes, procedures, performance measures, and results.
• Ability to track, organize and maintain individual workload timely and efficiently.
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate and build partnerships, develop work teams, and work effectively with authorizing and external environment.
• Experience working in an open work environment and/or telework.
• Experience with writing and implementing policies and procedures
• Ability to apply negotiation and conflict resolution skills.
• Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Excel and ability to create and manipulate pro forma financial models.

Supplemental Information

To be considered for this position the following are needed:

• 
  A complete and detailed online application
• A Cover letter (enter online);
• At least three (3) professional references (enter online).

This position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement

The initial screening will be solely based on the contents and completeness of your application. All information may be verified and documentation may be required. For questions about this recruitment, please contact Jose Dominguez at 360-810-0182 or jose.dominguez@commerce.wa.gov.

Work From Anywhere
This position may be located anywhere within Washington state though occasional travel to a Commerce office building or in-state travel to attend events or meetings may be required. If selected, you will need to travel to pick up equipment and receive instruction. Many Commerce employees work remote or have a hybrid schedule. However, it is anticipated that interviews for this position will be held using virtual videoconferencing. You will work with your supervisor to identify an appropriate work schedule and balance, including telework and reporting to a duty station for work activities, if needed.

Important Notice
Per Governor Inslee’s Directive #22-13.1, state employees must be fully vaccinated prior to your first day of employment. Your vaccine status will be verified prior to an offer of employment. Please reach out to Human Resources Specialist Jimmie Wimberly at jimmie.wimberly@commerce.wa.gov if you need information on medical or religious accommodation.

Additional Information
The Washington State Department of Commerce is an equal opportunity employer. We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, racial, ethnic, sexual orientation and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons of disability, persons over 40 years of age, veterans or people with military status, and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply. Persons needing accommodation in the application, testing, or interview process or this job announcement in an alternative format may call Human Resources at (360) 725-2650. Applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing may call through the Washington Relay Service by dialing 7-1-1 or 1-800-833-6388.