Outreach Independent Living Specialist - Homeless Outreach

Jointly funded by the Department of Homeless Services and the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, BRC's Transit Homeless Outreach staff members operate throughout the transit system 24 hours a day to provide outreach and case management services that help homeless individuals permanently relocate from MTA properties. The program serves Manhattan, The Bronx, Brooklyn, and Queens.

About the role

You will provide comprehensive case management services to identified chronic homeless individuals, working intensively with clients as they move through the program continuum.

Responsibilities

• Meet with clients regularly both in the field and in the office.
• Ensure all clinical files and reports are complete and up-to-date.
• Conduct comprehensive assessments to identify barriers to housing.
• Assist clients in overcoming housing barriers and securing entitlements.
• Develop and implement individualized housing plans with clients.
• Build a network of support services for clients.
• Prepare clients for housing interviews and arrange housing appointments.
• Participate in case conferences as necessary.
• Liaise with clinical staff in other BRC or outside programs regarding common clients.
• Obtain Fire Safety and First Aid/CPR certification (or pass the test to acquire these credentials).
• Perform related duties as assigned.

Requirements

• BA in a related field preferred.
• Significant experience working in outreach or case management strongly preferred.
• Strong interest in providing direct services to homeless and/or mentally ill and substance-abusing populations.
• Experience referring clients to substance abuse programs, mental health programs, entitlements, and work readiness programs.
• Ability to assess and recognize signs and symptoms of mental illness and substance abuse.
• Good writing and oral communication skills.
• Computer literacy.
• Ability to work in a high-stress, high-volume environment while maintaining communication with the clinical team.
• Bilingual preferred (Spanish, Polish, Russian, Chinese, Korean, or other language).
• Valid state driver’s license.
• CPR training certification or willingness to complete training.
• Vaccination preferred but not required.

Schedule

Full-time, 37.5 hours per week. Sunday–Thursday, 7:00 AM–3:30 PM.

Benefits

• Health insurance and paid sick time available immediately upon starting work.
• Competitive health and dental plans covering employees, spouses, domestic partners, and dependents.
• Minimum of 3 weeks paid vacation, 12 paid holidays, and additional paid sick and personal time.
• 403(b) pension plan with employer matching.
• Tuition assistance and career development training opportunities.
• Flexible spending accounts (FSAs) for healthcare, transit, and childcare.