Education Debt Consumer Assistance Program Advisor

Reporting to the Director of Litigation, the Education Debt Consumer Assistance Program (EDCAP) Advisor is responsible for the implementation and service delivery of LSHV’s EDCAP project. The EDCAP Advisor will provide information and assistance to individuals with higher education debt, which includes federal and private student loans and tuition debt.

This position is based out of the Yonkers Office and requires travel to educational workshops and events throughout Dutchess, Ulster, Rockland, Putnam, Orange, Sullivan, and Westchester.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Complete EDCAP’s training for accreditation. Thereafter, complete EDCAP training to maintain accreditation and other training to ensure provision of high-quality services.
• Conduct intakes via telephone or in-person and open cases as appropriate
• Maintain both physical and electronic files in the case management system for clients and applicants for services; prepare letters and other documents
• Provide individual assistance, advocacy, and support to individuals with higher education debt, which includes assessing and advising individuals about their repayment plan options; accessing and advising individuals about forgiveness, cancellation and discharge programs and assisting with applications; filing requests for information and complaints with servicers and lenders; and mediating issues with loan servicers and lenders.
• Refer individuals to other services and resources to address additional needs
• Provide consumer education presentations based on EDCAP-approved materials
• Attend community events to promote awareness of our EDCAP services.
• Attend EDCAP training, including but not limited to annual intensive training and monthly training.
• Remain current on student loan law as it pertains to the services provided
• Collect and report data as directed by funder on a timely basis
• Collect client stories, at least two per year
• Complete paperwork and case recording in compliance with federal, state and local requirements and LSHV’s Practice Standards
• Support EDCAP Coordinator (LSHV’s consumer attorney) as needed
• Attend and engage in staff meetings, training, and supervision
• Perform other duties as assigned by supervisor

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Associate degree; bachelor’s degree preferred
• Experience in human services
• Knowledge of consumer/student loan law preferred
• Excellent working knowledge of computers and software such as Microsoft Word, Excel and data entry
• Strong written, interpersonal and oral communication skills
• Excellent organizational and time management skills
• Ability to work effectively with a diverse group of stakeholders
• Self-starter, ability to work independently and seek supervision when necessary
• Valid NYS Driver’s license and vehicle required

SALARY:

$67,235 - $84,604 DOE, union scale, with excellent benefits that include medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and long-term disability coverage, as well as a defined contribution to a 403 (b), loan repayment assistance, and paid parental leave. After a brief probationary period, this position may permit work from home up to two days per week. Professional development includes access to job-related training, a Mentoring Program, and an Emerging Leaders Program.