SNAP Navigator

Hunger Solutions New York, Inc., founded in 1985 and based in Albany, is a statewide nonprofit organization that strives to alleviate hunger in New York by promoting awareness of hunger, public policies that contribute to ending hunger, and participation in federal nutrition assistance programs such as SNAP, WIC, the Summer Food Service Program, the School Breakfast Program, and the Child and Adult Care Food Program.

SUMMARY OF POSITION:

The SNAP Navigation Specialist provides remote and direct, hands-on assistance to individuals and households across New York State who are seeking to apply for or maintain Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits under the Nutrition Navigators Direct Service Contract with NYSOTDA.

Working remotely while traveling regularly throughout New York State, the SNAP Navigation Specialist engages directly with SNAP-eligible individuals through outreach events, community-based partnerships, one-on-one assistance sessions as well as working remotely to provide supports via phone, text, email and videoconferencing. This role supports individuals through every stage of the SNAP application process, including screening eligibility, completing applications, gathering documentation, preparing for interviews, and troubleshooting case issues in coordination with local Departments of Social Services (DSS).

The SNAP Navigation Specialist plays a critical frontline role in increasing access to nutrition assistance and ensuring that individuals receive accurate, timely, and respectful support throughout the benefits process.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Provide individualized, client-centered support to individuals applying for SNAP benefits.
• Assist clients with completing SNAP applications accurately and in a timely manner.
• Help clients understand eligibility requirements, documentation needs, and program rules.
• Support clients in preparing for interviews with local Departments of Social Services.
• Follow up with clients to ensure applications are submitted and processed appropriately.
• Help resolve common barriers to SNAP enrollment, including missing documentation or system delays.
• Participate in statewide outreach events, enrollment drives, and community-based service activities and build relationships with community partners to identify and engage SNAP-eligible individuals.
• Provide on-site enrollment assistance at community locations including libraries, food pantries, shelters, health clinics, schools, and other partner sites.
• Assist clients experiencing barriers such as application denials, delays, or administrative issues and communicate with local DSS offices, when appropriate, to clarify case status or requirements.
• Support clients in submitting appeals, recertifications, or required documentation.
• Identify patterns of systemic barriers affecting SNAP access and report trends to supervisory staff.
• Provide clear, respectful, and trauma-informed support to individuals with varying needs and circumstances.
• Ensure timely follow-up to prevent loss of benefits or application abandonment.
• Refer clients to additional community resources when appropriate.
• Accurately document all client interactions, application support activities, and outcomes.
• Maintain timely records in tracking systems.
• Maintain strict confidentiality of client information in accordance with federal, state, and organizational policies.
• Adhere to SNAP program rules, OTDA guidance, and organizational procedures.
• Ensure accuracy and integrity in all application assistance activities.
• Represent Hunger Solutions New York in a professional and culturally responsive manner at all times.

QUALIFICATIONS:

The position necessitates a basic understanding of the role of federal nutrition programs in alleviating hunger. It is imperative that the candidate be able to meet deadlines, manage multiple projects, work with colleagues with ease, focus on details, and strive for excellence.Candidates must be proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and easily adapt to learning new technologies. Additionally, candidates should possess the following skillsets:

• Associate’s Degree in Social Work, Human Services, Public Health, Public Administration, Nutrition, or related field or commensurate experience.
• Experience working directly with clients in a high-volume service environment.
• Strong understanding of SNAP eligibility, application processes, and public assistance systems.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and customer service skills.
• Ability to travel regularly throughout New York State.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently in a remote environment.
• Familiarity with New York State OTDA systems and local DSS processes.
• Experience conducting community outreach or public engagement events.
• Experience working with underserved or vulnerable populations.
• Familiarity with case management systems or digital tracking tools.
• Bilingual with the ability to speak English/Spanish is strongly desired.
• Nutrition Navigators must reside in the state of New York and be able to commute to outreach events throughout the state.

CULTURE:

Hunger Solutions New York is an Equal Opportunity Employer dedicated to creating a culture that is rewarding to employees and provides each team member with the ability to continually grow and learn. Hunger Solutions New York is a champion of and promotes diversity, equity and inclusion among all stakeholders.Hunger Solutions New York recognizes the need for work/life balance and provides a flexible working environment for all employees. Office culture is casual and professional.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS:

Hunger Solutions New York is committed to its employees and thusly provides a competitive compensation package.Salary will be commensurate with experience, but is expected to be $45K - $55K. Hunger Solutions New York offers fully paid benefit premiums including health, dental, life, short- and long-term disability, and a retirement plan that offers a 6% match (different vesting periods apply to each benefit and will be discussed as part of the interview process). A Health Reimbursement Account (HRA) may be available depending upon the health insurance package chosen.Additionally, Hunger Solutions New York offers a generous amount of holiday and paid time off to each employee.