Outreach Specialist

ABOUT THE ROLE The NYC Public Engagement Unit (PEU) within the Department of Social Services (DSS) and Human Resources Administration (HRA) is seeking Outreach Specialists to function as Community Associates. This role focuses on connecting New Yorkers to key City services, particularly housing benefits, through proactive outreach, data analytics, case management, and direct community engagement across all five boroughs. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Engage New Yorkers through door-to-door canvassing, phone calls, and peer-to-peer texting to assess needs and inform them of relevant City services and resources. - Provide ongoing case management to help New Yorkers access benefits, with a primary focus on housing benefits and services. - Conduct outreach Days of Action and other community events. - Respond to incoming calls from the Tenant Helpline. - Maintain ongoing reporting and communication with assigned supervisors. - Liaise with community stakeholders, including community-based organizations and agency partners. - Support partners with outreach efforts to provide additional resources and information to New Yorkers citywide. - Assist with special projects, run effective meetings, build strong relationships with diverse stakeholders, and synthesize staff input with data to create viable outreach strategies. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - High school graduation or equivalent AND three years of experience in community work or community-centered activities in an area related to the duties described; OR - Education and/or experience which is equivalent to the above. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - New York City residency is generally required within 90 days of appointment (exceptions may apply for City employees with 2 continuous years of service). - Familiarity with New York City government and housing issues is preferred. - Strong written and oral communication skills in English; Spanish language skills are a plus. - At least one year of experience with community issues, labor, or political organizing is preferred. SELECTION PROCESS - No Exam Required. - Title classification is Non-Competitive-5. HOW TO APPLY - Apply through the official City of New York jobs portal using Job ID 798650. - Applications are accepted until 11/03/2026. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Department: HRA / Dept of Social Services (Mayor's Anti-Displ Init Nm) - Location: 260 Eleventh Ave., Manhattan, New York, NY - Job Type: Full-Time - Number of Positions: 5 - Experience Level: Entry-Level, Job Level 00 - Hours/Shift: Monday - Friday 9am - 5pm OR Tuesday - Saturday 10:30am - 6:30pm. - Benefits: May be eligible for federal loan forgiveness programs (Public Service Loan Forgiveness) and state repayment assistance programs. - The City of New York is an inclusive equal opportunity employer committed to a diverse workforce free from discrimination and harassment.