Benefits Navigation Specialist-St. Lawrence County

Food Bank of Central New York•Syracuse, NY

6d•Remote

About The Position

The Benefit Navigation Specialist helps clients understand eligibility requirements, complete SNAP applications, gather required documentation, navigate renewals and recertifications, and overcome barriers to food assistance. The specialist conducts benefit eligibility prescreenings and provides application assistance and referrals by phone, email, and in person, including home visits. The role includes tracking assigned cases and applications, advocating for clients, connecting them with community resources that support food security and financial stability, and participating in community outreach and educational events. This is a remote, work-from-home position that requires daily travel throughout St. Lawrence County and Northern New York. Applicants are strongly encouraged to live in or near St. Lawrence County. The position is full-time, hourly, and non-exempt, scheduled for 40 hours per week, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m., including a 30-minute unpaid meal break. Occasional off-hour events and weekend work may be required based on community schedules. The role reports to the Outreach Manager. The salary range is $22.99–$23.68 per hour. Food Bank of Central New York is a not-for-profit organization established in 1985 that works to end hunger across an 11-county service area. It distributes food and household items and addresses food insecurity through programming, nutrition education, outreach, partnerships, and advocacy.

Requirements

Minimum of 2 years of experience in social services, outreach, or related fieldwork.
Experience conducting eligibility prescreening and providing application assistance for public benefits programs.
Previous experience working with diverse populations and community organizations.
Ability to work with people from diverse backgrounds, vulnerable populations, and varied environments.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Strong organizational and time-management abilities.
Proficiency in using databases and maintaining accurate records.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Knowledge of SNAP and other public benefits programs.
Ability to multitask and compile reports with strong attention to detail.
Ability to assist with and track applications, including following up with clients.
Familiarity with the Food Bank’s mission and services.
Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion.
Competency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and other relevant software.
Valid driver’s license required.
Ability to travel regularly within assigned regions and throughout the service area, including independently visiting community locations, events, and client homes.
Ability to sit, stand, and walk for extended periods; lift and carry outreach materials and supplies independently up to 50 pounds; and work in diverse environments, including outdoor events.

Nice To Haves

Associate’s degree in Social Work, Human Services, Public Health, or a related field preferred.
Bachelor’s degree is a plus.
Certification or training in SNAP application processes is a plus.
Community Health Worker or Human Services certification is a plus.
Knowledge of SNAP eligibility rules and public assistance programs preferred.
Bi- or multilingual ability preferred.
Residence in or near St. Lawrence County is strongly encouraged.

Responsibilities

Conduct eligibility prescreenings for SNAP and other public benefits for individuals in assigned regions.
Assist clients with SNAP applications, renewals, and recertifications by phone, web, and home visitation.
Educate clients about SNAP requirements, benefit calculations, reporting obligations, and application timelines.
Help clients gather and submit verification documents, including proof of income, residency, household composition, and expenses.
Track application status and follow up with clients about outstanding requirements and application completion.
Advocate for clients facing barriers, delays, denials, or interruptions in benefits.
Coordinate referrals to food pantries, community meal programs, WIC, Medicaid, HEAP, housing assistance, and other supportive services.
Collaborate with local Departments of Social Services to track and manage submitted applications.
Disseminate referrals by phone, email, and in-person meetings.
Maintain confidential and accurate records of applications and client interactions in the internal tracking database.
Develop partnerships with community organizations, food pantries, schools, churches, healthcare providers, and government agencies.
Conduct and participate in outreach events and educational workshops about SNAP benefits, food access resources, and Food Bank services.
Monitor policy changes and updates related to SNAP and other public assistance programs.
Prepare and distribute outreach materials promoting SNAP and Food Bank services.
Report required metrics regularly to internal and external stakeholders.
Monitor community changes and trends so the Food Bank can adapt its services appropriately.
Represent the Food Bank at community meetings and events to foster partnerships and collaboration.
Assist other regions within the service area when needed.