Careers

Make a Rewarding Career Move

The Coalition for the Homeless offers rewarding career opportunities for counselors, teachers, social workers, case managers and organizers. Coalition programs offer a variety of entry-level and professional positions for those who wish to join our dedicated and talented corps of human services workers and advocates.

We are currently in a hybrid work environment that requires employees to be onsite at least 80% of the time (4 days).

Positions Available:

Shelter Specialist

Department: Advocacy
Reports to:
Shelter Rights Monitoring Team Supervisor

The Coalition for the Homeless (the “Coalition”) is the nation’s oldest advocacy and direct services organization helping unhoused individuals and families and those at risk of experiencing homelessness. The Coalition believes that affordable housing, sufficient food and the chance to work for a living wage are fundamental rights in a civilized society. Since its inception in 1981, the Coalition has engaged in litigation, advocacy, public education, and direct services to ensure that these goals are realized.

In addition to its aggressive and innovative large-scale advocacy on behalf of homeless individuals and families and its 11 programs serving over 3500 at-risk people every year, the Coalition is the court-appointed independent monitor of the Department of Homeless Services (“DHS”) shelter system for single adults, and the New York City-appointed independent monitor of the DHS shelter system for homeless families.

The Coalition is seeking a passionate, curious, and organized individual to join the Advocacy Department’s Shelter Rights Monitoring Team as a Shelter Specialist.

About the Role: The Shelter Specialist’s primary duty is to conduct shelter monitoring activities consistent with the Coalition’s duties and obligations. The Shelter Specialist will regularly visit homeless shelters in order to document shelter condition violations and other problems. These visits include joint inspections with DHS and ‘unannounced’ shelter visits, which may occasionally be conducted outside of traditional business hours. The Shelter Specialist will engage with shelter residents for the purpose of gathering and sharing information and, as appropriate, communicate directly with shelter staff to address residents’ immediate needs and concerns. The Shelter Specialist will also help organize, support, and mobilize shelter residents and formerly-homeless New Yorkers for Coalition advocacy campaigns and events.

Responsibilities Include:

the Shelter Specialist will:

Monitoring & Advocacy

  • Conduct monitoring of New York City shelters to assess and document: (a) shelter conditions; (b) compliance or lack thereof with the Callahan consent decree and other applicable court orders and regulations, and (c) the needs of residents
  • Advocate for individual needs of shelter residents to the extent possible during field visits
  • Provide shelter residents with information and referrals, as appropriate
  • Document individual and systemic problems for follow-up with DHS as directed
  • Communicate with DHS regarding compliance with shelter standards and follow up to ensure that they are addressing issues raised
  • Ensure all monitoring visits are accurately and timely entered into Coalition databases and other electronic tracking systems as directed
  • Timely respond to shelter residents’ calls and emails, and log the same into Coalition database as directed
  • In consultation with Supervisor and other shelter monitoring staff, identify the need for and schedule unannounced inspections, and update shared department calendars to reflect schedule changes

Community Engagement

  • Assist with the Client Advisory Group (“CAG”), a key tool for organizing homeless and formerly-homeless individuals and families, and attend CAG meetings
  • Organize shelter residents and formerly-homeless individuals and families for the purpose of City and State-level advocacy on a range of public policy issues that impact homeless and low-income individuals
  • Together with the Advocacy staff, help develop and implement the Coalition’s organizing campaigns and public education work

Other Duties

  • Work with Advocacy staff and outside counsel to provide litigation support by identifying and liaising with potential plaintiffs for affirmative cases related to defending or expanding the rights of homeless individuals and families
  • Liaise with other departments and programs of the Coalition to provide resource materials and increase awareness about the work of the Advocacy Department and to include other staff in Advocacy campaigns and events
  • Obtain regular supervision with the Supervisor or designee to review department operations, policies, and other issues/concerns
  • Participate in weekly staff and other meetings as directed, such as in-service training and staff development and orientation activities
  • Assist in the training and orientation of fellow members of the department, including, but not limited to, accompanying department staff on field visits and ensuring they understand the rights of shelter residents; and
  • Perform all other duties as may be assigned by the Supervisor or the Deputy Executive Director for Advocacy.

Qualifications:

  • AA/AS in human services or health discipline required (or a GED/high school diploma and at least four years of relevant work experience in homeless services or grassroots organizing).
  • BA/BS in social work, human services, or health discipline strongly preferred.
  • Prior direct client services and case management experience, especially with homeless and/or low-income people, strongly preferred.
  • Strong written and oral communication skills required.
  • Solid critical thinking and problem-solving skills required.
  • Comfort with extensive travel throughout NYC required.
  • Ability to engage in considerable walking, climbing stairs, and being on your feet for extended periods of time required.
  • Flexibility and willingness to occasionally work outside of traditional business hours is required.
  • Desire to work as part of a team required.
  • Spanish or French language proficiency highly desirable.
  • Lived experience in the NYC shelter system highly desirable.

Salary: $60,000 – $65,000

APPLY NOW

People of color and formerly homeless individuals are encouraged to apply.

The Coalition for the Homeless is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Outreach Specialist (GCFP)

Department: Programs
Reports to:
 Director of Emergency Relief Services

About the Role: The GCFP (Grand Central Food Program) Outreach Specialist provides direct crisis services to the homeless population served by the GCFP as well as works to engage and provide direct services to the street homeless population. The GCFP Outreach Specialist provides services including but not limited to, providing appropriate referrals and advocacy, particularly in regards to immediate needs and shelter related issues, as well as providing assistance in obtaining and retaining public benefits and entitlements, and assisting with access to health, mental health, and substance use/dependence services. The position works collaboratively across teams and organizations to achieve this goal. The GCFP Outreach Specialist performs job duties consistent with the mission and goals of the Coalition for the Homeless.

Responsibilities Include:

The Program Assistant shall:

  • Provide outreach services to street homeless clients served by the Grand Central Food Van at least three times per week;
  • Act as liaison between the Grand Central Food Program and the street homeless clients by encouraging them to avail of services offered by the Coalition for the Homeless and other service providers;
  • Work to develop networks with outside service providers that could serve to enhance the resources available to meet client needs;
  • Educate and support clients in the process of advocating for their shelter rights and benefits;
  • Escort street homeless clients to relevant outside appointments when necessary in order to advocate for clients and to ensure that appropriate benefits are received;
  • Engage in community outreach efforts to identify housing opportunities;
  • Prepare and review HRA 2010e and other appropriate housing applications;
  • Drive our GCFP vehicles while conducting outreach/serving meals;
  • Perform all other duties as may be assigned by the Director of Emergency Relief Services or designee.

Qualifications: BA/BS in social work, human services or health discipline is strongly preferred. Prior case/care management experience, especially in a supportive housing program, working with individuals who are homeless or formerly homeless, persons living with mental illness, struggling with substance use, and/or living with HIV/AIDS strongly desired. Self-starters, able to prioritize multiple tasks and work independently are also strongly preferred. Fluency in Spanish is strongly preferred.

Salary: $50,000 – $55,000

APPLY NOW

People of color and formerly homeless individuals are encouraged to apply.

The Coalition for the Homeless is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Career Skills Instructor (First Step Program)

Department: Programs
Reports to:
Career Development Supervisor

About the Role: The First Step Program is a job-training program that supports unhoused and low-income adult women in meeting employment and educational goals through holistic and empowering programming.

The Career Skills Instructor is responsible for facilitating hard and soft skills workshops, including career development and basic digital literacy workshops. The Career Skills Instructor serves as the liaison with volunteer job coaches and, under the supervision of the Career Development Supervisor, works with corporations and volunteers to develop resources for the program in order to maintain and increase internship, education, and employment opportunities. The Career Development Instructor also supports students’ and graduates’ long-term career goals by providing individualized career planning, job search and application assistance.

This position reports to the Career Development Supervisor and works in a team environment, supporting all phases of students’ participation in the program. First Step staff are expected to perform all job duties consistent with the mission and goals of the Coalition for the Homeless and relevant funding agreements.

Responsibilities Include:

The Career Skills Instructor (First Step Program) is expected to:

  • Under the supervision of the Career Development Supervisor, develop and facilitate professional development and basic digital literacy workshops, including computer navigation, resume and cover letter writing, interviewing, career planning, etc.
  • Consistently maintain a professional and supportive approach when interacting with First Step participants and graduates;
  • Assist in the coordination and facilitation of orientation at the start of each new class;
  • Participate and assist with planning of special events such as graduation ceremonies, benefit luncheon, and holiday party for the First Step program
  • Maintain copies of graduate resumes and certificates and provide graduate support around job search and application
  • Assist with gathering documentation of job placements and retention from program graduates;
  • Manage the mentorship/job coach component of the program by matching students with job coaches and supporting both the student and job coach to encourage a meaningful connection
  • Develop and maintain a good working relationship with volunteers, corporate partners, internship supervisors, among others
  • Assist Career Development Supervisor with matching students with internships
  • Work closely with the Career Development Supervisor and Program Director to plan resume review/mock interview events with corporate partners and accompany students to events off-site
  • Collaborate with the First Step team on the development, review, oversight, revision, and modification of the curriculum and program services
  • Boost graduate engagement by planning and implementing regular graduate events, newsletters, and social media posts
  • Participate in weekly staff meetings and communicate social service-related concerns to the First Step team
  • Obtain regular (no less than weekly) supervision with the Career Development Supervisor
  • Perform all other duties as may be assigned by Career Development Supervisor, Program Director or designee

Qualifications:

  • BA/BS in social work, human services, business, education or a related field preferred. Experience in job readiness and/or job placement preferred
  • Formal presentation skills and the ability to teach adult learners in a patient and supportive manner. Previous teaching experience is desirable
  • Excellent oral/written communication and relationship-building skills
  • Excellent organizational skills and the ability to meet deadlines and keep track of multiple projects
  • Strong teamwork, collaboration, and leadership skills
  • The ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with the highest degree of professionalism
  • Comprehensive knowledge of basic computer applications (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, Google Workspace products) required
  • Prior experience serving unhoused and low-income women preferred
  • Ability to work in-person is required

Salary: $50,000 – $55,000

APPLY NOW

People of color and formerly homeless individuals are encouraged to apply.

The Coalition for the Homeless is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Commercial Building Superintendent

Department: Operations
Reports to:
Manager of Operations and/or Director of Operations & Technology

About the Role: The Commercial Building Superintendent is the building manager responsible for all maintenance and janitorial services at Fulton Street, including the maintenance of building systems and equipment. The Commercial Building Superintendent ensures that all building structures, systems and equipment are consistently maintained to provide a safe, secure and sanitary environment for all staff, tenants and visitors. The Commercial Building Superintendent provides basic carpentry, plumbing, electrical and other repair services so as to ensure that the building is in good repair and well-maintained. The Commercial Building Superintendent is the onsite building manager responsible for the operation, maintenance and janitorial services, including the maintenance of all building systems and equipment, including heating systems and boilers, and serves as an in-house technical expert. In addition, the Commercial Building Superintendent serves as a liaison between the Coalition’s Operations and Programs Staff. The Commercial Building Superintendent ensures compliance, at the direction of Management, with all HUD, DOB, HPD, FDNY, DEP, DSNY and other regulatory laws, rules, and regulations. The Commercial Building Superintendent performs job duties consistent with the mission and goals of the Coalition for the Homeless, and in accordance with the terms of any agreements with the NYC Department of Homeless Services (“DHS”), Human Resources Administration (“HRA”), Department of Housing Preservation and Development (“HPD”) and the New York City Housing Authority (“NYCHA”), among others.

The Commercial Building Superintendent, as assigned by the Manager of Operations and/or Director of Operations & Technology, is responsible for completing janitorial and facility maintenance tasks in collaboration with other maintenance staff efficiently and effectively. Performs a senior maintenance role in initiating, overseeing, organizing and performing janitorial and maintenance duties. Coordinates the supply and maintenance inventory. Monitors building equipment, including HVAC systems and boilers, and is responsible for general building repairs. Performs job duties consistent with the mission and goals of Coalition for the Homeless.

Responsibilities Include:

The Commercial Building Superintendent is expected to:

  • Supervise Maintenance staff and perform general building maintenance duties including: cleaning of all offices and restrooms, trash disposal, glass cleaning, metal surface cleaning of bathrooms and elevators, dust mopping and wet mopping, carpet shampooing, floor stripping, and waxing and buffing
  • Responsible for maintaining building exterior for cleanliness and safety to include: roof, mechanical, boiler room, basement and sidewalk cleaning, washing, trash and snow removal
  • Coordinate trash and recycling pickups with sanitation companies
  • Responsible for basic building repairs to include: plumbing, electrical, sheet rock, plastering, and painting
  • Maintain an up-to-date inventory of all maintenance-related supplies and equipment, and assists the Manager of Operations and/or Director of Operations & Technology with maintaining adequate stock and timely reorders of supplies
  • Maintain the buildings in such a manner as to prevent issuance of violations by any City agency (Sanitation, NYCHA, HPD, ECB, etc.) due to building/apartment conditions, trash, ice or snow accumulation
  • Consistently maintain appropriate and professional conduct and interactions with clients, supervisors, vendors, and other Coalition staff, among others;
    On a regular and consistent basis, provide janitorial services throughout the buildings, sweeping, mopping, waxing, vacuuming, dusting/polishing, including but not limited to, office cleaning, and trash disposal
  • Develop, implement, and evaluate a Preventative Maintenance Program for building and equipment including, but not limited to, boiler/heating units, exhaust fans, hot water heaters, pneumatic controls, sprinkler/fire alarm systems
  • Determine method and source of repair required and assist in developing bid specification documents for work to be performed by contractors
  • Assist Management in determining the cost-benefit of contract versus in-house maintenance, including cost estimates for all such work, and prioritize maintenance projects
  • Serve as primary agency contact onsite with maintenance and service contractors, including an evaluation of the stated needs and work the contractors propose to perform, as well as, supervise all contractors engaged in installation, repair, operation, testing and/or maintenance of building systems and equipment, including pest control treatments
  • Supervise and perform preventive maintenance duties as authorized for building systems and equipment, to include boilers, HVAC, pneumatic controls, air compressors, hot water heater and valves
  • Conduct routine inspections of the entire building, including systems and equipment, and recommend method and/or source of repair as necessary and assigned
  • Exercise work safety procedures including handling of hazardous materials/wastes and compliance with safety codes and regulations
  • Assist Fire and Life Safety Director with inspections of fire alarm and other safety/security equipment and perform maintenance as required. Assist with periodic fire drills
  • Provide coverage for Coalition properties such as Bridge Coalition and Coalition Houses, will be assigned, as needed
  • Maintain and record documentation, such as inspections, service plans, log books, weekly reports and/or service summaries such as, cooling tower testing and sidewalk shed inspections
  • Consistently maintain appropriate and professional conduct and interactions with clients, building inspectors, mail carriers, parcel and freight delivery carriers, vendors, equipment repair individuals, and staff
  • Work collaboratively with Security staff to ensure safety in and throughout the building, as needed
  • Attend regular supervision with the Manager of Operations or designee
  • Attend Administration staff and other meetings
  • Perform other duties as may be assigned by the Manager of Operations or Director of Operations & Technology or designee
  • Expected to be on-call to respond to after-hours (evening, weekend, holidays) emergencies

Qualifications: High school diploma or GED required; AA/AS or certificates in building systems maintenance preferred. At least three years related experience in commercial and/or residential maintenance to include janitorial services and maintenance repairs with at least two years supervisory experience required. Experience monitoring HVAC systems, building fire panels, and alarm systems required. Ability to demonstrate knowledge of basic plumbing, electrical, sheet rock, plastering, painting and mechanical repairs. Knowledge of Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) required. Commencement of the Fire and Life Safety Director (FLSD) Certificate of Fitness (F-89) required within six (6) months of hire. Expected to be on-call to respond to for after-hours emergencies, as needed, at any of the Coalition’s properties.

Work Conditions: While performing the duties of this job, the employee may occasionally work near moving mechanical parts and may be occasionally exposed to wet and/or humid conditions. The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds, and occasionally lift objects up to 75 pounds. The noise level in the work environment ranges from moderately quiet to moderately noisy depending on the task being performed.

Salary: $50,000 – $55,000

To Apply: Please submit a resume and cover letter to jobs@cfthomeless.org

People of color and formerly homeless individuals are encouraged to apply.

The Coalition for the Homeless is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Part-Time Group Leader

Department: Bound for Success, Youth Services
Reports to: Director of Bound for Success

About the Role: The Group Leader of Bound for Success is responsible for the daily implementation of the after school/summer curriculum consistent with the policies of Coalition for the Homeless. The Group Leader helps to plan and carry out lessons incorporating homework assistance, tutoring, educational building activities, as well as creative and recreational activities.

Responsibilities include:

  • Implement a cohesive and comprehensive after-school/summer curriculum and program for children living in homeless shelters.
  • Help construct daily lesson plans for class, which reflects the Program’s focus for the week and creates a structured program for a group of school age children, 5 to 13 years old, with an emphasis on meeting the individual needs of each child.
  • Implement procedures to ensure the safety of program participants and the daily reporting of participant attendance, accidents, and incidents.
  • Maintains a good working relationship with parents and workers at the shelter. After notifying the Program Director, advises parents/guardians of any unusual behavior demonstrated by child or health problems observed.
  • Communicates regularly with parents regarding child’s overall progress, accomplishments and positive interactions with others.
  • Accompany group to various scheduled activities, bearing the responsibility for the safety and security of each child.
  • Collaborate with other staff members in planning special events, trips and other activities for the children.
  • Obtain regular supervision with the Director of Bound for Success to review program operations, clinical issues/concerns, staffing, and supply management, among other matters.
  • Participate in regular staff and other meetings, such as in-service training and staff development and orientation activities.
  • Assist in the design and implementation of program and service enhancements.
  • Perform all other duties as may be assigned by Director of Bound for Success or designee.

Qualifications:

  • A minimum of two years of college plus prior experience in working with school age children in educational and recreational settings is strongly preferred.
  • Must be a team player, flexible, outgoing, focused and enjoy working with children.
  • Bilingual (Spanish/English) candidate is a plus.

Salary: $20 per hour

To Apply: Please submit a resume and cover letter to jobs@cfthomeless.org

People of color and formerly homeless individuals are encouraged to apply.

The Coalition for the Homeless is an Equal Opportunity Employer.