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Basic Needs information

What is a basic needs job?

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 common challenges faced by basic needs coordinators when supporting students, and how are they 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 skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a basic needs coordinator?

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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Basic Needs jobs in Massachusetts? The most popular types of Basic Needs jobs in Massachusetts are:
Basic Needs jobs near you
Infographic showing various Basic Needs job openings in Massachusetts as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution.

Basic Needs Case Manager- Bilingual: Spanish/English

Jewish Family and Children's Service

Waltham, MA • On-site

$30.23 - $32.89/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

The Spanish Bilingual Basic Needs Case Manager will work with low-income clients within the Jewish community and other diverse backgrounds using a strengths-based clinical approach. This role will assess the full scope of a client's situation within the context of institutional and systemic barriers, connect a client to resources within JF&CS and in the Greater Boston community, and at times, provide direct financial assistance. This role will support clients as they take steps to build a sustainable financial future and stabilize their living situations. Clients and their families may present with a combination of mental health and economic insecurity needs, and this role will work to connect them to relevant resources, including public housing, public benefits, and mental health and medical care. This role will provide coaching and support to help clients address other immediate challenges in their daily lives.
This is a Monday-Friday position with no on-call duties. This position is available in a part-time or full-time capacity. Clients will be seen virtually, in the Waltham office, and in the Greater Boston community. Opportunity for hybrid work after an introductory period. Bilingual in Spanish and English is required.
Highlights
  • $57,000-$62,000/yr salary range for full time
  • LICSW (licensed social worker) supervision included if needed
  • Full-time or part-time option, weekdays only
  • Paid time off includes ample sick time, 22 days of vacation, in addition to national and some Jewish holidays
  • Immediate eligibility for dental, vision, retirement plan; no waiting period
    • Medical Insurance coverage is effective the 1st of the month following 30 days of employment
  • Rich departmental and agency training opportunities
  • Supportive work environment

Responsibilities of the Basic Needs Case Manager:
  • Working with and addressing the needs of the following populations: individuals with mental illness and/or disabling conditions, children and adolescents, parents and other family members, and those experiencing difficulty meeting their basic needs.
  • Provide on-going coaching and support for client progress toward financial stability. This includes gathering and reviewing financial documentation to determine eligibility for grant assistance, and providing hands-on assistance to clients for this as needed.
  • Perform case management tasks, including assisting clients to apply for public benefits such as SNAP, connecting to local low-income resources, applying for health insurance, housing, locating medical and mental health supports, and more.
  • Provide support during weekday working hours to clients experiencing crisis situations.
  • Establish a trusting and supportive relationship with clients from the Jewish community and other diverse backgrounds; provide high quality, compassionate, and ethical care.
  • Facilitate referrals to and collaborate with appropriate resources, including JF&CS services, other Jewish community partner agencies, and community organizations for housing, utilities, public benefits, and other basic needs support.
  • Meet with clients virtually, in the Waltham office, or in the community, as needed.
  • Participate in trainings and team meetings, and be an active, collaborative member of the JF&CS case management teams.

Requirements of the Basic Needs Case Manager:
  • Higher education or relevant work experience in Social Work, or another related field (mental health, education, psychology, human services). Masters degree preferred.
  • Bilingual in Spanish and English is required.
  • A solid knowledge of psychopathology and intervention skills
  • Familiarity with any of the following: public benefits or other low-income resources, disability services, older adult services, or mental health resources in the Greater Boston area preferred.
  • A desire to work for a mission-driven organization that is guided by the Jewish traditions of social responsibility, compassion, and respect for all members of the community.
  • Enthusiasm for problem-solving and a sense of humor!
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills; organizational skills; and high level of attention to detail.
  • A valid driver's license and a reliable, insured vehicle (mileage is reimbursed)
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, especially Word and Outlook
  • Capability with electronic case record software for agency documentation (Salesforce)

Applicants who do not meet the qualifications as stated above are encouraged to put in writing precisely how their background and experience have prepared them with the equivalent combination of education, training, and experience needed for the responsibilities of this position.
ABOUT JF&CS
For more than 150 years, Jewish Family & Children's Service has been helping individuals and families build a strong foundation for resilience and well-being. We intentionally serve and employ people of ALL faiths, backgrounds, cultures, and abilities.
We have a strong culture of professional development, work-life balance, and promotion from within.
JF&CS is an equal opportunity employer who serves and employs people of all cultures and faith traditions. Employment opportunities are available to all without regard for race, color, national or ethnic origin, religion, age, sex, gender, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran status, or disability.
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