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Basic Needs Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Basic Needs Intern

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$14 - $19/hr

The Basic Needs Intern will support the Regional District Manager with administrative, operational, and student-support initiatives across campus dining and basic needs programs. This position ...

Basic Needs Intern

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$14.50 - $19.75/hr

The Basic Needs Intern will support the Regional District Manager with administrative, operational, and student-support initiatives across campus dining and basic needs programs. This position ...

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Basic Needs information

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$26K

$67.1K

$144.5K

How much do basic needs jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for basic needs in the United States is $67,113.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36,000.00 and $78,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Basic Needs jobs?

Basic Needs jobs are roles that support individuals and communities in accessing essential resources such as food, shelter, healthcare, and financial assistance. These jobs can be found in government agencies, non-profit organizations, schools, and community centers. Workers in Basic Needs positions help connect people to vital services, provide direct aid, and advocate for resources to ensure well-being and stability. Common job titles include case manager, food pantry coordinator, housing assistance worker, and benefits specialist.

What are some common challenges faced by Basic Needs Coordinators when supporting students, and how are these typically addressed?

Basic Needs Coordinators often face challenges such as navigating limited resources, addressing urgent or sensitive student situations, and coordinating with multiple campus and community organizations. To manage these issues, coordinators typically maintain strong relationships with local agencies, utilize case management tools, and participate in ongoing training on crisis response and resource navigation. Collaboration and clear communication within a multidisciplinary team are essential to ensure students receive timely and holistic support.

What is the difference between Basic Needs vs Food Service Worker?

AspectBasic NeedsFood Service Worker
Required CredentialsNone or minimalFood Handler's Permit, sometimes food safety training
Work EnvironmentCommunity programs, social servicesRestaurants, cafeterias, catering
Employer & IndustryNonprofits, government agenciesHospitality, food industry
Common Search IntentAssistance programs, social servicesFood service jobs, restaurant work

Basic Needs roles focus on providing essential support and resources to vulnerable populations, often within social service settings. Food Service Workers primarily handle food preparation and service in hospitality environments. While both roles involve service, Basic Needs positions emphasize social support, whereas Food Service Workers focus on food handling and customer service.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Basic Needs Coordinator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Basic Needs Coordinator, you need a background in social work, public health, or a related field, along with knowledge of community resources and case management. Familiarity with client management systems, resource databases, and sometimes relevant certifications such as Certified Social Worker (CSW) is beneficial. Exceptional interpersonal skills, cultural competency, and problem-solving abilities help build trust and connect individuals with vital services. These skills ensure vulnerable populations receive timely support, helping to address barriers to well-being and promote community stability.
More about Basic Needs jobs
What cities are hiring for Basic Needs jobs? Cities with the most Basic Needs job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Basic Needs jobs? The most popular types of Basic Needs jobs are:
What states have the most Basic Needs jobs? States with the most job openings for Basic Needs jobs include:
Infographic showing various Basic Needs job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,113 per year, or $32.3 per hour.
Basic Needs Specialist

Other

Posted 25 days ago


University Of New Mexico rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 54 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

64th of 534 rated colleges and universities


Job description

The University of New Mexico is committed to fostering a supportive and inclusive campus environment where every student can thrive. As part of this commitment, we are seeking a compassionate and resourceful Basic Needs Specialist to join our team. This role reports to the leader of the LoboRESPECT Advocacy Center within the Dean of Students Office and is closely tied to the student well-being work done in the Division of Student Affairs. This role is vital in ensuring that students have access to essential resources such as food, housing, transportation, and emergency support-key components that directly impact student success, retention, and overall well-being.

The ideal candidate will possess a strong ability to relate to and support students from diverse socioeconomic and cultural backgrounds, demonstrating cultural humility, empathy, and an understanding of the unique challenges faced by historically marginalized populations. We desire candidates with experience in functionally operating a food pantry; including inventory management using industry tools like PantrySoft, managing donations and distributions, volunteer coordination and supervision, program assessment and community partnership development. The Basic Needs Specialist will play a central role in connecting students to campus and community resources, coordinating basic needs programs, promoting the availability of basic needs services de-stigmatizing the use of basic needs resources, and advocating for policies and services that reduce barriers to academic achievement.

The successful candidate will ideally have the following:

  • Strong interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills.
  • Experience providing direct support services or case management in an educational or community-based setting.
  • Knowledge of issues related to food insecurity, housing instability, and access to basic needs.
  • Ability to promote a culture of care and reduce stigma around accessing basic needs services through inclusive, respectful, and nonjudgmental engagement.
  • Coordinate the overall promotion of basic needs supports on campus including:
  • Monitors and updates designated web pages,
  • Develops written materials to support access to basic needs services and resources; and,
  • Coordinates and/or attends activities and events on- or off-campus as a representative of the college in relation to its basic needs program area.

May serve as a confidential resource in working as a member of a team on confidential advocacy issues in the LoboRESPECT Advocacy Center.

 

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