Eviction Defense Social Worker

AGENCY BACKGROUND:

Northern Manhattan Improvement Corporation (NMIC) is a community-based, not-for-profit organization founded in 1979. NMIC has grown into a leading multi-service agency with over 140 staff members serving New York City with a focus on upper Manhattan and the Bronx. Our mission is to serve as a catalyst for positive change in the lives of the people in our community on their paths to secure and prosperous futures. Integration is the cornerstone of NMIC’s programs, and our staff can identify and address a broad array of immediate needs through comprehensive crisis intervention services. With their matters resolved, clients move seamlessly to capacity building services through our holistic programs designed to transition individuals and families to self-sufficiency

• Our Legal, Organizing, Advocacy, and Weatherization programs meet community members’ basic needs including housing, immigration, benefits/finance, and health.
• Our Education and Career Services programs support community members as they develop the practical tools necessary to build secure and prosperous futures

Job Title: Eviction Defense Social Worker

Department: Legal, Organizing, & Advocacy

Unit: Right-to-Counsel Unit

Reports to: Managing Attorney for Housing

Location: Main Office: 45 Wadsworth Avenue, New York, N.Y. 10033

FLSA: Exempt

Model: Hybrid

SUMMARY OF RESPONSIBILITIES:

The Eviction Defense Social Worker is a position in NMIC’s Legal, Organizing, & Advocacy (LOA) Department responsible for providing client-centered and compassionate crisis counseling and case management to clients of NMIC’s Right-to-Counsel (RTC) legal unit. The social worker will provide crisis intervention, trauma-informed case management, resource coordination, and short-term stabilization planning to help clients maintain housing, address social service needs, and manage the personal impact of eviction and the eviction process. This role works collaboratively with attorneys and legal advocates to support tenants facing housing instability and eviction in New York City Housing Court.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Client Support and Crisis Intervention

• Provide trauma-informed crisis counseling to individuals and families facing eviction and housing instability.
• Conduct psychosocial assessments to identify client strengths, risks, and immediate needs.
• Develop individualized service plans focused on preservation of housing and related goals.
• Offer emotional support and safety planning for eviction defense clients experiencing additional stressors such as domestic violence, substance use concerns, or mental health crises.

Case Management and Resource Coordination

• Connect clients to NYC-based resources, including rental assistance programs, public benefits, and community-based services.
• Assist clients facing proceedings involving alleged clutter or other alleged behavioral issues.
• Coordinate referrals for mental health services, harm-reduction supports and other appropriate supports and interventions.
• Assist in the maintenance of the attorney-client relationship based on the responsibilities outlined in the unit’s retainer agreement.

Legal Team Collaboration

• Work closely with attorneys and paralegals as part of an interdisciplinary eviction defense team.
• Participate in case conferences and strategy meetings.
• Provide assessments and written summaries to inform court advocacy.
• Assist staff in preparing clients for court appearances and help reduce barriers to participation in the legal process.
• Provide trainings with NMIC staff and outside providers; prepare and conduct trainings for eviction defense staff.

Reporting and Administrative Tasks

• Maintain accurate, timely, and confidential case records.
• Track service delivery and outcomes and assist with reporting to funders.
• Ensure compliance with professional ethics and organizational policies.
• Attend trainings, meetings, and coalitions as necessary.
• Recruit and manage social work interns and volunteers to expand support to NMIC eviction defense clients.

Additional related responsibilities may be assigned.

Requirements:

• LMSW (or MSW actively pursuing licensure).
• At least two years of experience providing trauma-informed crisis counseling and/or case management to vulnerable populations required.
• SIFI certification or intent to obtain such certification strongly preferred.
• Knowledge of NYC-based services, housing systems, and public benefits programs preferred.
• Experience working with individuals experiencing housing instability, mental health challenges, and/or behavioral concerns preferred.
• Exceptional interpersonal, communication, and customer service skills.
• Detail oriented, strong organizational skills, and ability to manage a high-volume caseload in a fast-paced, interdisciplinary legal services environment.
• Demonstrated commitment to social justice, racial equity, tenant’s rights, and/or housing justice.
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) strongly preferred. Other languages a plus.

SALARY/BENEFITS: NMIC offers a competitive salary based on experience and education as well as a comprehensive and generous benefits package: medical, dental, life, and disability insurance are included; paid time off, including 20 vacation days, 15 sick days, 5 personal days, and 12 agency holidays; a 401k with agency contribution; and other benefits.

SALARY: $67,500 – $75,705, dependent upon experience

NMIC IS AN EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER: NMIC is an Equal Opportunity Employer and actively encourages candidates of diverse backgrounds to apply for employment. Applicants must meet the minimum qualification requirements. A combination of education and experience will be considered unless specifically stated otherwise.