Benefits Navigation Specialist

About The Ark 

The Ark is a vital resource in Chicago, providing a safety net for the Chicagoland Jewish community and anyone in need. Founded on the principles of dignity and compassion, The Ark offers free, comprehensive human services to help individuals and families navigate life’s challenges. With a deep commitment to restoring hope and self-reliance, The Ark integrates social services, medical care, and financial assistance in a welcoming, respectful environment. Learn more at arkchicago.org. 

About the Role 
We’re looking for a skilled navigator — someone who understands the complexity of public benefits systems and has the people skills to guide clients through them with patience and expertise.

The Benefits Navigation Specialist is a key member of the Intake & Eligibility team, dedicated to increasing the financial stability of The Ark’s clients by connecting them to vital public resources. Serving as the organization’s subject matter expert on public benefits, this role provides hands-on assistance to clients across all Ark programs — guiding them through eligibility screening, applications, and annual redeterminations for state and federal programs.

What You’ll Do 

• Conduct screenings and assist clients with applications for SNAP, Medicaid, Medicare, LIHEAP, and other public benefit programs.
• Manage annual redetermination processes to ensure clients maintain continuous coverage and avoid benefit lapses.
• Act as a formal liaison between clients and government agencies (IDHS, SSA) to troubleshoot application issues and denials.
• Maintain current expertise on evolving state and federal eligibility requirements, income limits, and filing procedures.
• Manage internal referrals from Case Managers, Medical staff, and Housing/Employment teams to centralize benefit support.
• Provide technical consultation to staff across the agency on complex eligibility cases.
• Document all client interactions, application statuses, and outcomes accurately in Salesforce.
• Cross-train with and support the Intake & Eligibility team during high-volume periods.
• Participate in departmental meetings, all-staff huddles, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Engage with local benefit advocacy networks and attend relevant internal and external training.

What You’ll Bring 

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Public Health, Human Services, or a related field preferred.
• Experience: Proven experience navigating Illinois (IDHS) and federal benefit systems, including managing a high volume of time-sensitive applications.
• Knowledge: Deep familiarity with SNAP, Medicaid, and Medicare requirements, with the ability to explain complex regulations clearly to clients.
• Skills: Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and comfort managing multiple active cases simultaneously.
• Values: A genuine commitment to The Ark’s mission of dignity, cultural humility, and client self-reliance.

Why You’ll Love Working Here 

• Competitive salary ($55,000–$65,000) and comprehensive benefits, including health, dental, vision, and 403(b)
• Paid time off and observance of Jewish and federal holidays
• Supportive, collaborative workplace rooted in compassion, integrity, and impact
• Opportunities for professional development and continuing education

To Apply: 
Submit your resume and cover letter to [email protected] with the subject line: Benefits Navigation Specialist.

The Ark is proud to be an equal opportunity employer, welcoming candidates from all backgrounds and experiences. The Ark celebrates diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive and supportive workplace.