SOAR Specialist - Navigation

Lifeworks•Austin, TX

7d•Onsite

About The Position

LifeWorks of Austin, TX is looking for a SOAR Specialist to join our Navigation team! The Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) Outreach, Access, and Recovery (SOAR) Specialist provides training, advocacy, and assistance to clients who may be eligible and want to apply for SSI/SSDI benefits and helps those clients complete SOAR applications. This position supports youth who experience homelessness, trauma, serious mental illness, and/or co-occurring substance use disorder. This role collaborates with Case Managers and other direct service positions to ensure effective coordination of support for clients through services available at the agency and community providers.

Requirements

Requires a Bachelor’s degree in social or behavioral sciences or administrative field.
Requires 2 years relevant experience with youth; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
Experience with databases; proficient level experience with Microsoft Office including Word, Excel, and Outlook.
Must possess or be able to obtain a valid Texas driver's license within 30 days and provide proof of valid insurance.
Standard First-Aid and CPR Certification as required by individual program, can obtain post hire.

Nice To Haves

Client Focus – Builds strong client relationships and delivers client-centered solutions.
Action Oriented – Takes on new opportunities and tough challenges with a sense of urgency, high energy and enthusiasm.
Interpersonal Savvy – Relates openly and comfortably with diverse groups of people across levels, functions, cultures, and geography.
Values Differences – Recognizes the value that different perspectives and cultures bring to an organization; is sensitive to socio-economic and cultural norms, expectations, and ways of communicating.
Instills Trust – Gains the confidence and trust of others through honesty, integrity and authenticity.
Situational Adaptability – Adapts approach and demeanor in real time to match the shifting demands of different situations.
Detail oriented – work with strong focus on accuracy to maintain neat, well-organized records.
Work independently, exercise initiative, and accomplish tasks without continuous supervision.

Responsibilities

Provide support for clients applying for SSI/SSDI benefits through the SOAR process.
Work with staff in LifeWorks housing programs to identify potentially eligible clients and conduct initial assessments for benefits eligibility.
Complete interviews with clients to gather medical records and other information required to complete SSI/SSDI applications.
Write SOAR Medical Summary Reports for individual applications.
Coordinate and/or accompany clients to appointments at the Social Security Administration, medical doctors, psychiatrists, and other specialists to obtain medical documentation for application.
Complete SOAR applications on behalf of clients.
Work in partnership with the SSI/SSDI office regarding eligibility for clients.
Assist client with appeals if denied.
Research, prepare reports and negotiate with the office of Social Security and/or judicial staff to resolve cases as needed.
Collaborate with Case Managers and other direct care staff at LifeWorks to ensure effective coordination of services.
Collaborate with various community programs and agencies to advocate for client needs and provide appropriate referrals to specialized services promoting client success; Keep apprised of available community resources.
Meet with individual clients to establish a safe, healthy relationship for problem-solving and advocacy.
Maintain case records and documentation related to SSI/SSDI applications.
Communicate with members of the community, colleagues, and clients effectively and efficiently.
Prepare for and actively participate in supervision meetings and all other required meetings or trainings.
Transport clients to agencies and services, as needed.
Other duties as assigned.