CCE of Albany County Community Specialist – Voorheesville, NY

The Community Specialist supports Cornell Cooperative Extension of Albany County educational programs, primarily helping community members navigate the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) application and eligibility processes. This role is well suited for someone who is patient, compassionate, organized, and comfortable working with vulnerable people who may be experiencing difficult circumstances.

This position requires attention to detail and the ability to work independently and calmly with program participants. The Community Specialist will work as part of a team to assist program participants both in person and over the phone.

Primary responsibilities include explaining program requirements, aiding with the application process, maintaining accurate, confidential records and making referrals to other programs and organisations when appropriate. The Community Specialist also assists with outreach events, a summer youth employment program, and other CCE programs and initiatives as needed. The position works collaboratively with CCE Albany staff and helps connect participants with Extension resources and programs.

• Bachelor’s degree.
• An Associate’s degree plus 2 years related experience may substitute for a bachelor’s degree.
• Experience relevant to the role of the position.
• Ability to meet the frequent travel requirements associated with this position.
• A valid NYS driver’s license with the ability to drive and driving record acceptable for agency insurance coverage are required.
• Ability to work flexible hours, which may include occasional evenings and/or weekends.
• Ability to effectively coordinate and deliver assigned programs and meet program goals and data reporting requirements.
• Technology Skills
  - Microsoft Office suite, internet, and program related software.
• Communication Skills
  - Ability to effectively communicate verbally and in writing.

Work Environment – In addition to the Working Conditions; the work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals to perform the essential functions.

This position works in a typical office environment and regularly works in community-based settings. In addition, the position regularly lifts, moves, or transports program related materials and equipment.

Knowledge of community resources that support vulnerable populations.

Program Responsibilities:
Program Delivery, Evaluation and Applied Research – 35% Serve as subject matter resource; answer questions. Deliver existing programs in person, one-on-one or in groups, by phone, and at community outreach events, as assigned. Extend educational resources and help participants make connections (including referrals) to other Extension programs and community resources. Assist with other programs as assigned. Interact with program participants.

Represent CCE before the public and others. May assist with team efforts to deliver programs. Assist in evaluating the program and making recommendations for improvements.

Administrative Responsibilities:
Direction and Management – 10% Assist in planning and managing assigned programs. Assist in developing, expanding, and enhancing relationships for the program. Assist in solving problems and resolving conflicts that arise in the program, utilizing appropriate policies and procedures.

Coordination and Operation – 50% Provide HEAP application assistance, answer phone calls and respond to messages, review eligibility, household size, conduct participant interviews, document needs, submit applications, conduct follow up, etc. Coordinate assigned programs, trainings, events, and meetings. Complete and submit all required reports, records, and documentation (e.g. program data, evaluation data, incident reports, expense reports, etc.) in an accurate and timely manner.

Effectively collaborate with partner organizations and others. Assist the supervisor to coordinate the Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP). Help connect eligible youth…