Financial Counselor

The Ark, Chicago's safety net for the Jewish community, is hiring a Financial Counselor to help clients build financial stability. Working with the Social Services and Housing teams, you'll meet regularly with clients referred from case management, the Gesher day program and other Ark programs to set goals, budget and manage money. You'll also help run The Ark's Shallow Subsidy and New Beginnings programs.

Responsibilities:
• Meet one-on-one with clients to assess financial needs, goals and challenges
• Build individualized plans covering budgeting, bill management, debt and savings
• Tailor financial education to each client's cognitive, emotional and functional needs
• Help clients understand income, benefits and expenses, and address urgent issues like utility shutoffs and collections
• Make timely payments of client expenses (rent, utilities, medical costs) and keep accurate account records
• Coordinate with the Benefits Navigator and the Social Services and Housing teams

Qualifications:
• Experience providing financial counseling, coaching or money management services (required)
• Bachelor's degree in finance, social work, human services, accounting or a related field preferred
• Experience working with people with mental health challenges or complex needs strongly preferred
• Strong knowledge of budgeting and benefits income, and the ability to explain it clearly
• Sound ethical judgment, discretion and attention to detail
• Knowledge of Jewish traditions, or willingness to learn

Benefits:
No-cost HMO health insurance (PPO options available), 100% employer-paid dental and vision, a retirement plan with matching, PTO, generous Jewish and secular holidays, and one remote day per week.