Outreach Independent Living Specialist - Transit Homeless Outreach

Bowery Residents Committee•Manhattan, NY

About The Position

The Outreach Independent Living Specialist provides comprehensive case management to identified chronically homeless individuals in BRC’s Transit Homeless Outreach program. The specialist manages an assigned caseload, meeting with clients regularly in the field and office and keeping clinical files and reports complete and current. The role supports clients throughout the program continuum, helping them address barriers to housing, secure entitlements, develop individualized housing plans, and build networks of support services. The specialist also prepares clients for housing interviews, arranges housing appointments, participates in case conferences as needed, and liaises with clinical staff at BRC and outside programs regarding shared clients. BRC’s Transit Homeless Outreach program is jointly funded by the Department of Homeless Services and the Metropolitan Transportation Authority. Its staff work throughout the transit system to assist homeless individuals in relocating from MTA properties and connect clients with housing and essential services across Manhattan, The Bronx, Brooklyn, and Queens. This is a full-time position, 37.5 hours per week, Tuesday through Saturday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. BRC describes its workplace as committed to employee wellbeing and development and to maintaining a safe and healthy environment, including providing PPE and following temperature-monitoring and physical-distancing practices.

Requirements

Significant experience working in outreach or case management is strongly preferred.
Strong interest in providing direct services to people experiencing homelessness and/or mental illness and substance abuse.
Experience referring clients to substance abuse programs, mental health programs, entitlement services, and work-readiness programs.
Ability to assess and recognize signs and symptoms of mental illness and substance abuse.
Good writing and oral communication skills.
Computer literacy.
Ability to work in a high-stress, high-volume environment while maintaining communication with other clinical team members.
Valid state driver's license.
Fire Safety and First Aid/CPR certification, or ability to pass a test to acquire these credentials.
CPR training certification or willingness to take a CPR training class.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor of Arts degree in a related field preferred.
Bilingual ability preferred, including Spanish, Polish, Russian, Chinese, Korean, or another language.
Vaccination preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

Provide comprehensive case management services to identified chronically homeless individuals.
Manage an assigned caseload, including meeting clients regularly in the field and in the office.
Ensure clinical files and reports are complete and up to date.
Conduct comprehensive assessments to identify barriers to housing.
Help clients overcome housing barriers and secure entitlements.
Develop individualized housing plans with clients and support their progress on those plans.
Build a network of support services for clients.
Prepare clients for housing interviews and arrange housing appointments.
Participate in case conferences as necessary.
Liaise with clinical staff in BRC and outside programs regarding shared clients.
Perform related duties as assigned.

Benefits

Health insurance eligibility and paid sick time beginning immediately upon starting work.
Competitive health and dental plans, with coverage available for a spouse, domestic partner, and dependents.
At least three weeks of paid vacation for full-time employees.
12 paid holidays and additional paid sick and personal time.
403(b) pension plan with a matching benefit paid by BRC.
Tuition assistance and training opportunities for career development.
Flexible spending accounts for healthcare, transit, and childcare expenses.

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