Advocate

Disability Rights Texas • Houston, TX

8h • Hybrid

About The Position

The Protection and Advocacy for Beneficiaries of Social Security (PABSS) Advocate provides advocacy services to individuals with disabilities who are Social Security beneficiaries, with a focus on supporting employment and removing barriers to work. This role is responsible for evaluating requests for assistance, determining eligibility in accordance with organizational priorities, and delivering non-litigation advocacy services in coordination with the supervising attorney.

The Advocate manages a caseload that may include complex client issues, conducts interviews and investigations, develops and implements case strategies, and provides advocacy through negotiation, problem-solving, administrative complaint filing and referral. The role also includes developing and delivering outreach and training to individuals, families, and service providers to increase awareness of rights, employment supports, and available services. This includes participating in different activities in order to present information regarding the organization’s services and programs.

This position requires the ability to exercise sound judgment, analyze complex situations, and communicate effectively with diverse audiences while maintaining compliance with applicable laws, policies, and program requirements. The Advocate shall provide information and referrals to beneficiaries about work incentives, employment, overpayments, as well as addressing issues that may arise while working with employer networks under the Ticket to Work Program.

This position handles highly confidential and private information and government security clearance is required. Persons employed in this position must be cleared through a thorough and invasive background investigation conducted by the United States Government Office of Personnel Management. This investigation includes fingerprinting, review of personal information including physical and mental health information and conditions, criminal records, personal finances, and history on employment, personal relationships, marital status, familial relationships, and international travel.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Rehabilitation Counseling, Disability Studies, Social Services, or a related field and two (2) years of relevant experience working with individuals with disabilities; or four (4) years of equivalent experience
• Demonstrated knowledge of federal and state laws and programs affecting individuals with disabilities, including the Americans with Disabilities Act, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, vocational rehabilitation, and Social Security benefits, or the ability to acquire such knowledge within a reasonable period of time
• Ability to develop and implement case strategies by analyzing complex problems and identifying effective solutions
• Ability to communicate effectively in writing, verbally, and through negotiation with diverse audiences, with or without reasonable accommodation
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and perform effectively in a dynamic work environment
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team environment
• Strong organizational, case management, and time management skills
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and safeguard sensitive information
• Demonstrated professionalism, sound judgment, and ethical decision-making
• Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills

Nice To Haves

• Bilingual proficiency in Spanish (written and spoken), or demonstrated experience effectively serving Spanish-speaking individuals through direct communication or use of interpretation resources.

Responsibilities

• Conduct client interviews, gather relevant information, and assess eligibility for services in alignment with organizational priorities.
• Investigate complaints, analyze facts, and identify legal advocacy issues.
• Develop and implement case strategies for short- and long-term advocacy cases in coordination with the supervising attorney.
• Manage an assigned caseload, including documentation, follow-up, and case progression.
• Communicate effectively with clients, staff, and stakeholders regarding case status and advocacy efforts.
• Prepare written advocacy materials, including complaints, reports, and case summaries.
• Provide advocacy services, including negotiation, mediation, and problem resolution to support employment outcomes for beneficiaries.
• Maintain accurate, timely, and complete case records in compliance with organizational and legal standards.
• Apply relevant laws, regulations, and program requirements related to disability rights and Social Security benefits.
• Provide information, referrals, and resources as assigned.
• Develop and deliver outreach presentations, training sessions, and educational materials.
• Utilize case management systems and technology tools to support service delivery.
• Prioritize workload and manage multiple responsibilities to meet deadlines and program expectations.
• Travel as needed to provide services and support program activities, and to attend required training if needed.
• Participate in team meetings, training, and organizational initiatives as required.
• Perform other job-related duties as assigned, consistent with the scope and level of the position.

Benefits

• Generous leave allocations including personal leave days, vacation hours, and sick leave
• Paid winter break
• Flexible schedules
• Generous 401k plan where DRTx contributes 7% of your annual salary
• Health care plans with little to no cost (if choosing employee only coverage)

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 11-50 employees