Education Debt Legal Manager

About the role

The Community Service Society (CSS) is an independent, not-for-profit organization that has been at the forefront of public policy innovations that support low-income New Yorkers for more than 180 years. In 2019, through its Program Services Department, CSS launched an initiative called the Education Debt Consumer Assistance Program (EDCAP), which is focused on helping consumers navigate their student loan debt. More specifically, EDCAP provides over the phone, remote video conferencing and in-person assistance to individuals who need help managing their student debt, including selecting an appropriate repayment plan, loan consolidation, applying for forgiveness and discharge programs, avoiding or getting out of default, and much more. EDCAP also funds and operates a network of non-profit and legal aid organizations that provide direct services across New York State. EDCAP is specifically looking for an attorney who is committed to public service and has a background or high interest in issues related to higher education debt.

Responsibilities

• Provide legal information, strategic guidance, and case management services to borrowers facing complex student loan and education debt challenges.
• Manage complex debt-related cases and work with borrowers involving student loan debt negotiations, effectively liaising with lenders and debt collectors.
• Supervise student debt counselors by conducting case reviews to ensure proper advice is provided, help formulate and implement legal strategies to address student casework and related policy issues.
• Provide technical assistance, training, and presentations to consumers and advocates, as needed.
• Maintain thorough case records of services provided, advice, complaints and/or referrals.
• Help identify systemic trends or practices that adversely affect clients and work closely with senior CSS staff and other appropriate stakeholders.
• Other responsibilities identified by Supervisor.

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree or licensed attorney
• 3+ years of experience helping consumers and/or advocates on consumer debt or related issues.
• Ability to speak, type and write clearly, concisely, persuasively and keep detailed notes of all communications.
• Demonstrated expertise in conducting legal research and analysis.
• Written and spoken fluency in Spanish or a language other than English strongly preferred.

Benefits

• Health, dental, and vision coverage
• Life, AD&D, and long-term disability insurance
• Annual performance-based bonus
• 403b retirement savings plan
• Defined benefit retirement plan
• Flexible spending accounts
• Commuter benefits plan
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Robust paid time off policy

Pay

The annual salary range for this position is $95,000.00 to $105,000.00.

Schedule

CSS currently offers a hybrid work environment requiring onsite work at CSS’ office at least two days per week and three days per week remote work.