Benefit Advisor

Essential Functions include, but are not limited to:

·         Conduct client meetings in person or virtually to assess needs, determine benefit eligibility, and provide ongoing support throughout the benefit application process.

·         Utilize approved screening tools to identify all applicable city, state, federal, and private benefits, and assist clients with completing applications, gathering and submitting documentation, and preparing for interviews or appeals.

·         Manage an active and fluid caseload in accordance with agency and funder requirements, ensuring timely intake, service delivery, documentation, follow-up, and case closure; meet established productivity and quality benchmarks.

·         Track the status of benefit applications using relevant databases and communication channels; proactively intervene to resolve delays, advocate for clients, and initiate appeals or mediation as needed.

·         Coordinate referrals to external providers for needs outside the program’s scope, including but not limited to legal services, housing support, food resources, financial counseling, and employment assistance; engage collateral contacts and family members when appropriate.

·         Maintain strict confidentiality and adhere to all agency privacy standards and legal requirements in the handling of sensitive client information and external communications.

·         Accurately document all client interactions, services rendered, and outcomes in funder databases and internal tracking systems within required timeframes; ensure documentation meets agency, program, and contractual standards.

·         Participate in outreach and engagement activities, including in-person or virtual events, community presentations, targeted flyer distribution, promote program services and support client enrollment efforts.

·         Monitor service trends, identify barriers to access or engagement, and communicate emerging issues to program leadership in a timely and solutions-oriented manner.

·         Attend mandatory trainings and incorporate learned practices into service delivery; utilize available incentives (e.g., MetroCards, diapers, movie tickets) to support outreach and retention efforts.

·         Perform other duties and special projects as assigned by program management to ensure program effectiveness, compliance, and alignment with agency goals.

Expectations, include but are not limited to:

· Prepare for and actively participate in supervision meetings by setting clear agendas, providing timely updates on work activities, and integrating feedback and directives into daily practice.

· Communicate professionally and consistently with supervisors, demonstrating sound judgment, adaptability to changing assignments, and the ability to manage responsibilities independently and competently.

· Foster a respectful and inclusive work environment by building positive relationships with clients and staff of diverse backgrounds and experiences, and by supporting a team-based, mission-driven approach to service delivery.

· Collaborate with colleagues and contribute to shared client responsibilities as needed; participate in team meetings, trainings, and program initiatives to ensure alignment with program goals.

· Analyze issues proactively and escalate concerns appropriately within the supervisory chain of command; support conflict resolution and maintain professionalism and productivity in high-pressure situations.

· Adhere to all agency policies, procedures, and contractual requirements, including standards for documentation, conduct, service delivery, and confidentiality.

· Manage work schedules responsibly by reporting on time, coordinating breaks to ensure coverage, completing assignments within required timeframes, and complying with attendance and timekeeping protocols.

· While this position is primarily site-based, program management may authorize a hybrid work schedule as appropriate and in accordance with agency policy.

Requirements
Education & Experience

Title

Education & Experience

Benefit Advisor 1

High School Diploma and two (2) years of relevant work experience

Benefit Advisor 2

Bachelor’s Degree

OR, High School Diploma and four (4) years of relevant work experience

Benefit Advisor 3

Bachelor’s Degree and two (2) years of relevant work experience

OR, BSW degree and one (1) year of relevant work experience

OR, High School Diploma and six (6) years of relevant work experience

Benefit Advisor 4

Bachelor’s Degree and five (5) years of relevant work experience

OR, BSW degree and four (4) year of relevant work experience

OR, High School Diploma and nine (9) years of relevant work experience

Benefit Advisor 5

Bachelor’s Degree and eight (8) years of relevant work experience

OR, BSW degree and seven (7) year of relevant work experience

OR, High School Diploma and eleven (12) years of relevant work experience

Note: For applicants without college degrees, every 30 college credits earned may be substituted for one (1) year of experience.

Note: Relevance pertains to the essential tasks and functions of this role.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Knowledge of public benefit systems at the city, state, federal, and private levels, including eligibility requirements, application procedures, and appeals processes for programs such as SNAP, Medicaid, Social Security, and housing-related benefits.
Demonstrated ability to conduct comprehensive needs assessments and apply screening tools to accurately determine benefit eligibility and service needs for a diverse client population
Strong case management and client service skills, including the ability to manage a fluid caseload, maintain follow-up, and support clients through the entire benefit application process.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to explain complex processes clearly, manage client expectations, and engage respectfully with individuals from diverse backgrounds, including those with histories of incarceration or homelessness.
Proficiency in documentation and data entry, with strong attention to detail and the ability to meet data quality standards in both internal systems and funder databases.
Organizational and time management skills, including the ability to balance multiple priorities, adhere to deadlines, and maintain productivity in a high-volume, fast-paced environment
Knowledge of confidentiality and privacy regulations, including HIPAA and agency-specific protocols, with the ability to handle sensitive information with discretion.
Ability to collaborate effectively with internal teams and external partners, including legal, housing, medical, and social service providers, to coordinate referrals and ensure comprehensive care
Crisis intervention and problem-solving skills, with the ability to identify barriers, advocate for clients, and mediate or escalate issues when necessary.
Adaptability to work in varied settings, including correctional facilities, office environments, and virtual platforms, with a willingness to participate in outreach and marketing activities as assigned.
Cultural competency and commitment to equity, with the ability to provide person-centered services in alignment with CUCS’s mission and values.

Physical Demands. The physical demands described below are generally required to perform the essential job functions for this role. Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities.

Sit and stand for extended periods of time
Walk, bend over, reach overhead, grasp, push, pull, and move
Lift and move items or equipment weighing up to 10 pounds
Walk up/down stairs (note, most agency sites have elevators)
Work primarily indoors in a standard, open space office environment and operate standard office equipment. Note that some community-based programs require working outdoors.
View and read computer screens and written documents, and enter data into computer
Ability to commute via public transportation for lengthy periods of time.
Ability to travel to various locations in order to provide services.