Housing and Entitlements Specialist - 10092 - Mon-Fri 10AM-6PM w/ flexibility

WellLife Network•Town of Brookhaven, NY

3d•$23 - $23•Onsite

About The Position

The Housing and Entitlements Specialist supports youth, ages 16 – 21, residing in an OMH-licensed Youth Transitional Community Residence in preparing for independent living by assisting with housing navigation and access to public benefits. The role provides direct help with entitlements such as Medicaid, SNAP, and SSI, while guiding youth through locating, applying for, and maintaining safe and affordable housing. Youth are also educated on tenants’ rights, budgeting for rent and utilities, and understanding lease agreements so they can manage housing responsibilities effectively. The Specialist works closely with the agency’s Entitlements and Eligibility Services (EES) team to ensure benefit applications are accurate, complete, and processed in a timely manner. In addition, the Specialist helps residents build practical skills such as managing paperwork, communicating with landlords and agencies, and advocating for their needs. By collaborating with the clinical and residential teams, this position ensures that housing and entitlements are fully integrated into each youth’s service and discharge plan, laying the foundation for long-term stability and independence.

Requirements

High school diploma with relevant experience considered.
At least one (1) year of experience working with adolescents or young adults in a residential, educational, or community setting.
Strong knowledge of independent living and life skills development.
Ability to engage youth in a respectful, empowering, and age-appropriate manner.
Effective written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to work collaboratively within a multi-disciplinary team.
Valid driver’s license and ability to travel with youth in the community as needed.

Nice To Haves

Associate’s degree in human services, or related field preferred.
Working knowledge of OMH regulations and trauma-informed practices preferred.

Responsibilities

Assist youth in identifying and applying for safe, stable, and developmentally appropriate housing options (e.g., supportive housing, family reunification, shared housing, independent apartments).
Educate and support youth in understanding lease agreements, tenant responsibilities, budgeting for rent and utilities, and maintaining housing.
Guide youth through the application process for public entitlements, including but not limited to: Medicaid, SNAP (food stamps), SSI/SSDI, Public Assistance, State identification and social security replacement, HEAP (Heating Assistance).
Maintain accurate records of applications, approvals, denials, and follow-up steps required for benefits and housing.
Collaborate with care managers, discharge planners, legal advocates, and housing agencies to coordinate resources and remove barriers to access.
Facilitate individual and group sessions on housing readiness, navigating community systems, and accessing entitlements.
Ensure all services provided align with OMH discharge planning requirements and trauma-informed, youth-centered practices.
Advocate for the youth’s needs during housing interviews or benefit appointments as appropriate, while supporting self-advocacy skills.
Provide crisis support or emergency housing referrals, when necessary, in coordination with the clinical team.
Participate in team meetings and contribute to service planning and discharge documentation.
Assist with setting personal goals related to independent living and help track progress toward those goals.
Model appropriate behavior and communication skills, reinforcing positive interactions and problem-solving.
Support youth in accessing and navigating community resources.
Participate in team meetings, service plan reviews, and training as required.
Ensure a trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and youth-centered approach in all interactions.
Show sensitivity to cultural norms, recognize strengths in various cultural practices related to parenting and discipline, and maintain a non-judgmental approach towards diverse backgrounds.
Actively participate in individual supervision to address any concerns and to foster professional growth.
Perform additional tasks or responsibilities, as needed, to support program operations, youth development, or agency needs, even if not specifically listed in this job description.
Flexibility and adaptability are expected as part of the role.