Benefits Navigation Specialist-St. Lawrence County

Food Bank of Central New York•Syracuse, NY

7d•$23 - $24•Remote

About The Position

The Benefit Navigation Specialist helps clients understand eligibility requirements, complete SNAP applications, gather required documentation, navigate recertification processes, and overcome barriers to receiving food assistance. The specialist conducts eligibility prescreening for SNAP and other public benefits, assists with applications and referrals by phone, email, and in person or during home visits, tracks assigned cases, and connects clients with community resources that support food security and financial stability. The role also includes participating in outreach events and educating community members about Food Bank services and program eligibility. This is a remote, work-from-home position with 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. to 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.

Requirements

Minimum of 2 years of experience in social services, outreach, or related field work.
Experience conducting eligibility prescreening and application assistance for public benefits programs.
Previous experience working with diverse populations and community organizations.
Ability to work with people from diverse backgrounds and with vulnerable populations in varied environments.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Strong organizational and time-management abilities.
Proficiency 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 track applications and follow up with clients.
Familiarity with the Food Bank's mission and services.
Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion.
Competency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and other relevant software.
Valid driver's license.
Ability to sit, stand, and walk for extended periods; lift and carry outreach materials and supplies independently up to 50 pounds; and travel regularly within assigned regions and occasionally throughout the service area.
Comfort traveling independently to community locations, events, and client homes, and working in diverse environments including outdoor events.
Ability to work occasional off-hour events and weekends based on community schedules.

Nice To Haves

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

Responsibilities

Conduct eligibility prescreening for SNAP and other public benefits for people in assigned regions.
Assist clients with SNAP applications, renewals, and recertifications by phone, web, or home visitation.
Explain SNAP program requirements, benefit calculations, reporting obligations, and application submission 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 through 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 to help the Food Bank adapt its services.
Represent the Food Bank at community meetings and events to foster partnerships and collaborations.
Assist other regions within the service area when needed.