SNAP Specialist, Russian Speaking

Metropolitan Council on Jewish Poverty•Forest Hills, NY

2d•$45,000 - $45,000•Hybrid

About The Position

The SNAP Specialist conducts outreach for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), targeting underserved communities. The role provides clients with education, assessment, and facilitated enrollment services. As part of the Benefits Access Department, the specialist works with a team to reach the working poor, seniors, and immigrant communities under the supervision of the department director. The position is currently hybrid, with 3–4 days on-site, based out of offices in Forest Hills, Queens, and the Financial District, Manhattan. Services are provided in person at community-based organizations, and the role requires travel throughout New York City's five boroughs. The primary location is Forest Hills, Queens, though other sites may be assigned. Community events may occasionally require nontraditional work hours.

Requirements

High school diploma.
Russian/English bilingual proficiency.
Sensitivity and cultural competency when working with low-income New York City communities.
Solid computer skills and strong data-entry skills.
Excellent communication skills and comfort using online technologies and database systems daily.
Benefits-screening skills, especially for SNAP.
Public-speaking skills, including conducting presentations in various settings.
Exceptional customer-service skills.
Ability to help clients navigate barriers while adhering to local, state, and federal rules and regulations.
Attention to detail to ensure client applications are properly submitted with necessary documentation.
Professionalism and patience in serving diverse client needs.
Promptness and adherence to regular work hours.
Willingness to travel throughout the five boroughs of New York City.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree.
Background in Public Health, Public Administration, or Human Services.
Prior experience working with low-income communities.
Knowledge of government benefits.

Responsibilities

Conduct outreach to community-based organizations, emergency food programs, and other partners, and provide information on SNAP rules and regulations.
Educate potentially eligible clients about SNAP.
Screen, counsel, and advise clients on necessary documentation and SNAP eligibility requirements.
Help potentially eligible households and individuals access SNAP by providing application guidance and assistance using web-based tools such as Access HRA.
Provide post-application assistance and advocacy for disputed cases, as needed.
Provide case management assistance to existing clients, including periodic reports and case change forms.
Assist SNAP participants with recertification using web-based tools such as Access HRA.
Work in tandem with staff at partner agencies and other Met Council departments.
Attend community outreach events, fairs, and forums as needed.
Connect clients with other low-income programs and benefits, including Fair Fares, free tax preparation services, health insurance, HEAP, NYC Care, and WIC.
Document services in Met Council’s database system (Salesforce) and other relevant tracking tools.
Perform additional responsibilities as required.