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Economic Empowerment Specialist - Supportive Housing

Urban Resource Institute (URI) · New York, NY · 1 mo ago
Finance$49k–$55k/yrFull-time

Position Overview

The Economic Empowerment Specialist supports residents in achieving long term financial stability, increased income, and economic independence. The Specialist provides individualized coaching, employment readiness services, financial literacy education, and benefits navigation to help residents build sustainable pathways toward self-sufficiency. This role requires strong knowledge of workforce development systems, financial coaching principles, and the unique economic challenges faced by families impacted by domestic violence. The Specialist collaborates closely with Case Managers, Housing Specialists, and the Director of Clinical Services to ensure integrated, high quality service delivery aligned with ESSHI and OTDA standards.

Major Duties And Responsibilities

  • Conduct employment and vocational assessments to identify strengths, barriers, and career goals.

  • Provide individualized job readiness coaching, including resume development, interview preparation, and job search strategies.

  • Facilitate employment-focused workshops and skill-building groups.

  • Support residents in accessing workforce programs (SBS, HRA, DYCD, CUNY, WIOA programs, etc.).

  • Build and maintain relationships with employers, training programs, and workforce partners to create employment pipelines.

  • Conduct financial assessments and develop individualized financial plans.

  • Provide coaching on budgeting, banking, credit building, debt reduction, and long-term financial planning.

  • Facilitate financial literacy workshops and group sessions.

  • Support residents in accessing financial resources such as tax credits, banking services, and credit repair programs.

  • Aid residents in navigating public benefits including SNAP, Medicaid, childcare subsidies, and cash assistance.

  • Collaborate with Case Managers and Housing Specialists to ensure income stability supports housing retention.

  • Assist residents with income documentation required for recertifications, subsidies, and rent calculations.

  • Identify early signs of income instability and intervene to prevent arrears or tenancy risk.

  • Support residents in developing long-term economic plans that align with housing stability goals.

  • Ensure all services align with ESSHI service categories related to employment, education, and benefits access.

  • Maintain accurate and timely documentation in CAPS, HMIS, and other required data systems.

  • Track employment outcomes, income changes, and financial milestones for reporting and quality assurance.

  • Participate in audits, case reviews, and program evaluations.

  • Connect residents to community-based services including vocational training, GED/HSE programs, ESL classes, childcare, and legal services.

  • Provide warm handoffs and follow-up to ensure continuity of care.

  • Maintain updated knowledge of workforce trends, training opportunities, and financial resources.

  • Interact with interdisciplinary case conferences and service coordination meetings.

  • Collaborate with Case Managers to integrate economic goals into service plans.

  • Work closely with the Housing Specialist to support income-related tenancy needs.

  • Communicate regularly with the Director of Clinical Services regarding residents with complex needs.

  • Participate in ongoing training on trauma-informed care, DV best practices, financial coaching, and supportive housing standards.

  • Engage in reflective supervision and contribute to a culture of learning and accountability.

Specifications For Education/Certifications/Licenses

  • Bachelor’s degree in social work, human services, business, education, or related field required.

  • Certifications in financial coaching, workforce development, or career counseling preferred but not required.

Required Skills And Experience

  • Minimum of 2 years of experience in employment services, financial coaching, economic empowerment, or related fields.

  • Knowledge of workforce development systems, financial literacy principles, and public benefits.

  • Experience working with survivors of domestic violence and families with complex needs.

  • Strong facilitation skills for groups and workshops.

  • Ability to support residents with varying levels of education, employment history, and financial literacy.

  • Strong organizational, communication, and documentation skills.

  • Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office and data management systems.

Physical Requirements

  • Will be required to read printed and handwritten materials.

  • Will be required to use computer mouse and keyboard.

  • Must be able to sit for extended periods of time.

  • Must be able to enter information in digital forms and spreadsheets.

  • May require occasional work outside established working hours, including evenings and weekends.

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