Disability Benefits Specialist

Disability Benefits Specialist Friendship Shelter

• 2.

0 Laguna Woods, CA Job Details Full-time $26.23 an hour 1 day ago Benefits Health savings account Health insurance Dental insurance Flexible spending account Paid time off Vision insurance Life insurance Retirement plan Qualifications Appeals Record keeping Teamwork Report writing Working with individuals with disabilities Outdoor work Harm reduction Writing skills Local agency collaboration Mid-level Client relationship development Driver's License Medical records Driving Substance abuse Conflict management Working with individuals with mental health conditions Client advocacy in social work Productivity software Working with individuals with substance use disorders Managing patient records Care coordination Communication skills Stakeholder relationship building Full Job Description Friendship Shelter is a non-profit homeless services agency founded in 1988 and dedicated to ending homelessness in South Orange County, one person at a time. Friendship Shelter operates a full spectrum of services to end homelessness, including street outreach, emergency shelter, housing navigation, financial assistance, and permanent housing with supportive services. We believe in a housing-first and harm-reduction approach and value the unique experience of each client we serve. All of our programs employ trauma-informed principles and are housing-focused, low-barrier, and client-centered. We are committed to diversity in our workforce and endeavor to create a work experience that is inclusive, meaningful, and effective at ending homelessness. Position Summary The Disability Benefits Specialist is responsible for assisting individuals experiencing homelessness in applying for and securing disability income benefits, including SSI and SSDI. This role provides comprehensive, field-based advocacy services, including assessment, documentation collection, application preparation, submission, and follow-up. Working within a Housing First and Harm Reduction framework, the Disability Benefits Specialist utilizes the SOAR (SSI/SSDI Outreach, Access, and Recovery) model to improve approval outcomes and support long-term housing stability. This position collaborates closely with interdisciplinary teams to ensure coordinated, client-centered care. Essential Job Duties and Responsibilites Benefits Advocacy & Case Support Provide field-based benefit advocacy services, including client assessment, documentation gathering, application preparation, submission, and follow-up (including appeals) Guide clients through the

SSI/SSDI

application process while promoting dignity, respect, and self-determination Utilize the SOAR model, including completion of Medical Summary Reports, to improve application outcomes Coordinate with interdisciplinary team members to align benefits advocacy with housing and service plans Documentation & Records Coordination Request, obtain, and organize medical, behavioral health, and other supporting records necessary for comprehensive applications Collaborate with current and previous providers to strengthen application documentation Maintain accurate, complete, and timely records of all applications, appeals, and client interactions Ensure compliance with agency, contract, and data system requirements (e.g., HMIS, CalOptima Connect) Client Support & Engagement Accompany clients to appointments, including medical, Social Security Administration (SSA), and hearings as needed Provide transportation support to facilitate access to required services Communicate regularly with clients and staff regarding application status and next steps Build trusting, professional relationships with clients and community partners Collaboration & Team Participation Participate in case conferences, team meetings, and program discussions Maintain strong working relationships with internal staff, partner agencies, and service providers Support coordinated service delivery across programs Additional Responsibilities Perform other duties as assigned to support program operations and client success Supervisory Responsibilities Direct Reports ​

• This position does not have supervisory responsibilities for direct reports​ Indirect Reports ​
• This position does not have guidance or mentoring responsibilities for indirect reports​ Driving Requirements
• Driving is an essential duty or function of this job.
• Drive up to 50​%​ Minimum Qualifications The following are the minimum job-related qualifications which an individual needs in order to successfully perform the essential duties and responsibilities of the job.

Experience assisting with disability benefit applications (SSI, SSDI, or similar) SOAR certification preferred Experience working with individuals experiencing homelessness, mental illness, substance use disorders, or other disabling conditions Valid driver's license, reliable vehicle, and current insurance Familiarity with Orange County Continuum of Care preferred Commitment to serving vulnerable populations and supporting housing stability Skills, Knowledge and Abilities Knowledge of

SSI/SSDI

application processes and SOAR methodology Understanding of Housing First, Harm Reduction, and client-centered service models Strong organizational and documentation skills, including detailed report writing Ability to manage multiple cases and deadlines in a fast-paced environment Strong communication and interpersonal skills Ability to navigate social service systems (e.g., Medi-Cal, CalOptima, SSA, General Relief) Conflict resolution and de-escalation skills Ability to exercise sound judgment and maintain confidentiality Proficiency in Microsoft Office and data systems Environmental & Physical Requirements Office / Field Non-Sedentary Requirements The employee must be able to perform the essential functions of the job out in the field and at the administrative office. Work will be performed in shared spaces within the office environment and will involve interaction with clients out in the field. Typically requires the ability to spend 66%+ hours each workday doing the following activities: stand or sit for extended periods of time, walk, bend, stoop, or climb. May require the ability to lift and/or push up to 25 pounds 33%

• 66% of the time.

Driving personal vehicle during work hours is required. Additional Information Regarding Friendship Shelter Job Duties and Job Descriptions Job duties include additional responsibilities as assigned by one's supervisor or other manager related to the position/department. This job description is meant to describe the general nature and level of work being performed; it is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required for the position. The Company reserves the right at any time with or without notice to alter or change job responsibilities, reassign or transfer job position or assign additional job responsibilities, subject to applicable law. The Company shall provide reasonable accommodations of known disabilities to enable a qualified applicant or employee to apply for employment, perform the essential functions of the job, or enjoy the benefits and privileges of employment as required by the law. Any estimate, schedule, or guideline provided to associates in this job description or elsewhere in connection with their jobs is only intended to help describe job duties and for planning purposes. Regardless of any such estimate, schedule, or guideline, employees must always record all time worked for our company (which includes but is not limited to on-site work time at a shelter, office, or other work location; required waiting time; administrative time; and work-related travel time).

Job Type:

Full-time Pay:

$26.23 per hour

Benefits:

Dental insurance Flexible spending account Health insurance Health savings account Life insurance Paid time off Retirement plan Vision insurance People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply

Experience:

Disability Benefit Application Assistance:

1 year (Preferred) Ability to

Commute:

Laguna Woods, CA 92637 (Required) Ability to

Relocate:

Laguna Woods, CA 92637: Relocate before starting work (Preferred)

Work Location:

In person