Benefit Enrollment Specialist- Public Benefit Enrollment and Support Services
Posted
Join Our Team as a Civic Engagement Specialist!
Are you passionate about supporting the justice involved population, and making a real difference in their lives? EAC Network, a leading not-for-profit social service agency dedicated to helping over 80,000 people through 120 impactful programs across Long Island and NYC, is looking for a dedicated part time Benefit Enrollment Specialist to join the Public Benefit Enrollment and Support Services program!
Wage: $25-28/hour
Schedule: 21 hours per week; Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday - 8AM to 4PM
Location: Rikers Island in Queens, NY
Schedule: 21 hours per week; Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday - 8AM to 4PM
Location: Rikers Island in Queens, NY
What drives the core purpose of this job:
The Benefit Enrollment Specialist (Rikers Island) helps city-sentenced individuals in New York City Department of Correction (NYC DOC) facilities access critical public benefits before release. The Specialist provides in-person enrollment support for SNAP, Cash Assistance, Medicaid, Medicare, and other programs; schedules appointments; coordinates follow-up with DOC staff; and shares information about community resources that support successful reintegration.
Principal Duties & Responsibilities:
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Provide in-custody benefits education and assess individuals' eligibility and enrollment needs.
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Assist with applications for SNAP, Cash Assistance, Medicaid, Medicare, and other public benefits.
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Use DOC-approved computers and benefit portals to submit applications and schedule appointments.
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Clearly explain eligibility, documentation, application, renewal, and post-release follow-up requirements.
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Coordinate with NYC DOC staff and EAC supervision on referrals, follow-up, and continuity of services.
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Educate participants about post-release resources, including eviction prevention, family law, child support, and other civil legal services.
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Document contacts, applications, appointments, outcomes, attendance, and follow-up activities.
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Protect personal information and follow privacy, documentation, and information-security requirements.
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Work onsite three days per week, seven hours per day, and promptly report service disruptions to supervision.
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Complete NYC DOC clearances, background checks, PREA and facility training, and security requirements.
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Maintain professional boundaries, provide respectful services, and perform other assigned duties.
Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities Required:
- High School diploma or educational equivalent required.
- Public-benefit enrollment, case management, or social-service navigation experience strongly preferred.
- Knowledge of SNAP, Cash Assistance, Medicaid, Medicare, and New York benefit systems preferred.
- Experience in correctional or secure settings, or with justice-involved individuals, preferred.
- Ability to explain complex eligibility and application requirements clearly and accessibly.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
- Strong organizational, documentation, follow-up, and attention-to-detail skills.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office, benefit portals, appointment systems, and database entry.
- Ability to safeguard confidential information and maintain professional boundaries.
- Ability to satisfy NYC DOC background, clearance, training, and facility-access requirements.
What We Offer:
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At EAC Network, you will find more than just a job – you will find a supportive work environment committed to your well-being and growth. We champion equity, justice, and belonging, fostering a workplace where every voice is valued and empowered.
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We offer many roles with flexible and hybrid schedules to help you maintain a healthy work-life balance. Our commitment to wellness has allowed us to earn the Gold Healthy Workforce Designation from Cigna in 2024 and 2025.
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Additionally, all employees are eligible to participate in EAC Network’s 401(k) plan. EAC employees may also be eligible for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program. At EAC Network, you are part of a team making a difference in our communities across Long Island and New York City, every day.