Outreach Specialist - PENN - Thursday-Monday 7am-3:30pm

Bowery Residents Committee • Manhattan, NY

2d • Onsite

About The Position

The Outreach Specialist works on BRC’s Transit Homeless Outreach team, engaging directly with people experiencing chronic homelessness in New York City’s transit system. The role builds trust and supports individuals in transitioning to housing and stability through hands-on guidance and connections to services.

This is a full-time, field-based position in a 24/7 program. Staff conduct outreach in transit locations, including high-need areas such as end-of-line stations, and collaborate with partner agencies and outreach teams. The work involves engaging with individuals in crisis or with complex behavioral health needs and traveling across boroughs.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience.
• Strong communication, documentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to build trust and work effectively in the field.
• Valid driver’s license and willingness to travel across boroughs.
• Basic computer skills.
• Comfort working in transit stations, public spaces, and outdoor environments in all weather.
• Comfort engaging individuals in crisis or with complex behavioral health needs.
• Comfort working closely with individuals who may have limited access to hygiene and personal care and may present with unmet self-care needs.
• Ability to stand, walk, and travel for extended periods.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in outreach, social services, or behavioral health.
• Interest in working with individuals experiencing homelessness, mental illness, or substance use.
• Bilingual in Spanish, Polish, Russian, Chinese, or Korean.
• Internal candidates, such as Community Technicians with 6+ months of experience, are encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities

• Conduct compassionate, street-based outreach in transit locations.
• Connect clients to housing, medical, mental health, and substance use services.
• Complete brief assessments, provide escorts, and make referrals.
• Document outreach activity and client interactions.
• Work primarily in high-need areas, including end-of-line stations.
• Collaborate with partner agencies and outreach teams.

Benefits

• Medical benefits and paid sick time starting Day One.
• 3+ weeks vacation, 12 holidays, plus personal time.
• 403(b) with employer match.
• Tuition assistance and career advancement opportunities.
• Training in harm reduction, trauma-informed care, and Housing First.
• Supervision, mentorship, and clear internal growth pathways.
• CPR/First Aid certification provided.
• Professional development support.
• A mission-driven team committed to staff wellbeing.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level