Outreach Specialist, PENN

Company: Bowery Residents' Committee

About the Role

Do work that actually changes lives. Every night, hundreds of New Yorkers sleep in the subway system. BRC’s Transit Homeless Outreach team meets them where they are—building trust and helping individuals transition into housing and stability. As an Outreach Specialist, you’ll engage directly with individuals experiencing chronic homelessness, providing hands-on support and guidance. This role is ideal for early-career professionals pursuing social work, public health, or human services.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct compassionate, street-based outreach in transit locations
• Connect clients to housing, medical, mental health, and substance use services
• Complete brief assessments, provide escorts, and make referrals
• Document outreach activity and client interactions
• Work primarily at high-need areas, including end-of-line stations
• Collaborate with partner agencies and outreach teams

What You’ll Gain

• Hands-on experience in outreach, assessment, and housing navigation within NYC’s homeless services system
• Training in harm reduction, trauma-informed care, and Housing First
• Supervision, mentorship, and clear internal growth pathways
• Tuition assistance and professional development support
• CPR/First Aid certification provided

Requirements & Tech Stack

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience
• Strong communication, documentation, and interpersonal skills
• Ability to build trust and work effectively in the field
• Valid driver’s license and willingness to travel across boroughs
• Basic computer skills

Preferred

• Experience in outreach, social services, or behavioral health
• Interest in working with individuals experiencing homelessness, mental illness, or substance use
• Bilingual (Spanish, Polish, Russian, Chinese, or Korean)

Internal candidates (e.g., Community Technicians with 6+ months experience) are encouraged to apply.

Working Environment

This is a highly active, field-based role. You must be comfortable:

• Working in transit stations, public spaces, and outdoor environments in all weather
• Engaging individuals in crisis or with complex behavioral health needs
• Working closely with individuals who may have limited access to hygiene and personal care and may present with unmet self-care needs
• Standing, walking, and traveling for extended periods

Schedule

• Full-time, 37.5 hours/week
• Day, evening, and overnight shifts available

What We Offer

• Medical benefits and paid sick time starting Day One
• 3+ weeks vacation, 12 holidays, plus personal time
• 403(b) with employer match
• Tuition assistance and career advancement opportunities
• A mission-driven team committed to staff wellbeing