Benefits Navigator

Description

Community Health Action of Staten Island (CHASI) drives dramatic improvements in the health of New Yorkers by feeding people who are hungry, healing families broken apart by violence, and bridging the gaps between people and the compassionate health care they deserve. CHASI provides outreach, education, prevention, and direct support services for populations most affected by health disparities, including people with low or no income, low-income people with chronic illnesses, people with criminal justice involvement, people who use drugs, domestic violence survivors, people of color, and the LGBTQ community.

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Benefits Navigator provides person-centered assistance to Staten Island residents seeking Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits through CHASI's Nutrition Navigators Direct Services program. The role conducts SNAP pre-screening, supports initial and recertification applications, helps applicants understand and obtain required verification documents, monitors application progress, and follows up with clients to reduce barriers to enrollment and continued benefits. The Benefits Navigator is based at CHASI's Community Access Center and may provide services at other CHASI and community locations as scheduled.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Conduct SNAP pre-screening using approved tools and explain potential eligibility and next steps in clear, accessible language.
• Assist individuals and families with completing and submitting SNAP applications and recertification materials to the appropriate local social services district.
• Review application requirements with clients and help them identify, understand, and obtain required verification documents.
• Conduct interviews and assessments to understand each client's needs, barriers, preferred language, and support needs.
• Track the status of applications and recertifications; provide appointment reminders, follow-up communication, and updates to clients.
• Respond to questions regarding SNAP eligibility, application status, documentation, interviews, and recertification requirements within the scope of the role.
• Help resolve barriers encountered during the SNAP application or recertification process and coordinate with supervisors, HRA/DSS, and community partners as appropriate.
• Maintain complete, accurate, timely, and confidential client records, service documentation, and required data entries.
• Prepare or contribute to internal and funder reports on screenings, applications, recertifications, follow-up activities, and outcomes.
• Support outreach activities as needed while maintaining primary responsibility for SNAP screening, applications, recertifications, and client follow-up.
• Maintain current knowledge of SNAP eligibility rules, application procedures, and program guidance by completing required training and professional development.
• Provide services in a culturally responsive, trauma-informed, and respectful manner and use interpretation resources when needed.
• Perform all functions in alignment with CHASI's Mission, Vision, and Core Values.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

The above is intended to describe the essential job functions, general supplemental functions, and essential requirements for the position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive statement of all job functions.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• At least two years of relevant experience in benefits navigation, health or human services navigation, case management, client services, or a closely related field.
• Ability to conduct interviews, review documentation, explain complex requirements clearly, and support clients through multi-step application processes.
• Strong oral and written communication skills with the ability to communicate tactfully and professionally.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple clients and deadlines.
• Demonstrated proficiency with computers, web-based applications, Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and comply with data security and documentation requirements.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team-based environment.
• Ability to travel to CHASI and community service locations across Staten Island as needed.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Associate or bachelor's degree in human services, social services, public health, or related field.
• Experience with SNAP screening, application assistance, recertification, or public benefits advocacy.
• Bilingual English/Spanish or proficiency in another language commonly spoken by the communities CHASI serves.
• Familiarity with Staten Island community resources and HRA/DSS systems.

TO APPLY:

E-mail your resume to [email protected]; include the job title in the subject line.

CHASI is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to hiring and supporting diverse staff. All qualified applicants will be afforded equal employment opportunities without discrimination because of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, genetic information, disability, or marital status.