Specialist, Education ​/ Teaching, Youth Development

Overview

The Basic Needs Specialist provides direct support to students navigating basic needs and financial barriers to education. This position focuses on connecting students to internal and external resources, assisting with benefit navigation, and supporting the day‑to‑day operations of affordability and basic needs services. The role acts as a representative for the Roadrunner Resources Center and collaborates with campus partners to ensure students receive timely, practical support.

• Provide direct support to students in identifying and addressing barriers related to food, housing, transportation, and other basic needs.
• Assist students in accessing and applying for local, state, and federal benefits, or connect them to appropriate referral partners.
• Offer guidance using a proactive, student‑centered approach that supports persistence and completion.
• Use a trauma‑informed, student‑centered approach when working with individuals experiencing barriers to education.
• Support students in accessing resources in ways that reduce stigma and promote dignity and trust.
• Refer students to appropriate campus and community resources.
• Receive, review, and respond to student referrals from campus and community partners.
• Document student interactions, services provided, and referrals in designated systems.
• Maintain accurate and organized student records in alignment with FERPA and college practices.
• Monitor follow‑up needs and provide timely outreach to students as appropriate.
• Use college systems and data tools (e.g., Watermark, spreadsheets, or designated case management platforms) to document and track services.
• Support daily operations of the Roadrunner Resource Center, including student engagement and resource distribution.
• Assist with maintaining resource materials, outreach tools, and student‑facing information.
• Provide support for student feedback processes to improve services and access.
• Work collaboratively with campus programs such as the CARE Team, Counseling/Advising, Student Leadership Council, STEP, Accessibility Resources, and other student support services.
• Assist students in navigating emergency assistance requests through the LBCC Foundation and other campus resources.
• Maintain working knowledge of campus resources and community‑based organizations.
• Conduct outreach through tabling, classroom presentations, and events to increase awareness of available resources.
• Support communication efforts to ensure students understand how to access services.
• Support coordination efforts with external partners as directed.

Associate’s degree and one year of experience in student services, social services, or related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Experience in case management, advising, or customer service.

Knowledge:

• Working knowledge of community resources, public benefit programs, and student support services.
• Understanding of FERPA and the importance of maintaining student confidentiality.
• Understanding of trauma‑informed and student‑centered support practices.
• Knowledge of common office software, databases, and student‑tracking systems.

Skills:

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with a student‑centered approach.
• Ability to build rapport with students from diverse backgrounds.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to communicate effectively with students, staff, and community partners both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to maintain accurate records and documentation.
• Demonstrated commitment to serving students from diverse backgrounds and students experiencing barriers to success.

Abilities:

• Work independently within established processes and guidance.
• Manage time and prioritize tasks in a part‑time capacity.
• Maintain confidentiality and apply FERPA guidelines appropriately.
• Approach work with flexibility, problem‑solving, and a focus on practical solutions.
• Ability to learn and apply information related to community resources and public benefit programs.
• Ability to respond to students in crisis or high‑stress situations using calm, solution‑oriented approaches.

Criminal Background Check - C4.

Linn‑Benton Community College is an Equal Opportunity Educator and Employer. The college is a Fair Chance employer committed to inclusive hiring practices.