Social Worker - Hudson Bay

Classification: Non-Exempt

Reports to: Director of Social Services and Program Director

Status & Hours

This is a full-time position with a daytime schedule that includes 1 evening/late shift and weekend coverage. Lantern staff may be asked to change the work schedule and hours depending on the operational needs of the site and the agency.

Who We Are

Lantern Community Services helps New Yorkers impacted by homelessness move from surviving to thriving by pairing safe, supportive housing with wraparound services that build lasting stability and independence. If you believe a steady home can be the start of everything else, you’ll fit right in with our mission-first team. Lantern was also recognized as a Top 2025 Workplace by City & State New York - a great place to do meaningful work with people who care.

Where You Will Work

Hudson Bay is a brand-new, all-female shelter in the Bronx housing 200 women aged 55 and older.

About The Role

The Social Worker plays a critical role in delivering high-quality, client-centered services within the shelter setting. This position requires strong clinical judgment, leadership skills, and the ability to engage and support individuals experiencing homelessness, mental health challenges, substance use issues, and other barriers to stability. The Social Worker provides assessments, counseling, case management, crisis intervention, and care coordination while ensuring compliance with agency, city, and state standards.

Essential Functions

• Demonstrate leadership and maintain a commitment to client-centered, trauma-informed care.
• Manage and coordinate clinical and administrative functions in compliance with federal and state standards, utilizing CARES, PSYKES, CAPS, and other DHS/OTDA systems.
• Ensure effective delivery and documentation of services, including referrals to appropriate levels of care.
• Conduct biopsychosocial assessments, mental status examinations, and comprehensive mental health evaluations, including those required for Supportive Housing referrals.
• Conduct shelter-based mental health and substance use screenings.
• Develop and facilitate groups, workshops, and trainings that promote health, wellness, personal growth, and housing stability.
• Provide crisis intervention, complete incident follow-ups, and support risk management procedures.
• Maintain accurate and timely client records in compliance with regulatory and HIPAA standards.
• Serve as a liaison to community agencies and build collaborative relationships with service providers and referral sources.
• Utilize a harm reduction approach when supporting a diverse caseload.
• Engage residents through apartment visits, community outings, and appointment escorts as needed.
• Develop safety plans and collaborate with staff to de-escalate crises.
• Participate in interdisciplinary meetings, supervision, and ongoing professional development, including clinical supervision toward advanced licensure.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• MSW from an accredited school required; LMSW preferred.
• At least one (1) year of experience working with adults and/or families impacted by poverty, chronic homelessness, mental illness, substance use, or medical issues.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within an interdisciplinary team.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage a diverse caseload.
• Ability to work under pressure, including during crisis situations, and maintain scheduling flexibility.
• Experience with ETO or other electronic record-keeping systems preferred.

Work Environment

This job operates in a shelter environment and works with a population who may experience mental illness, substance use, disability, HIV/AIDS, and other chronic illnesses.

Physical Demands

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand, walk, sit, stoop, climb stairs and/or kneel. The employee must use hands to type, handle, or feel and frequently talk or hear. Occasionally, the employee may lift and/or move up to 5 pounds. Some positions may require travel between work sites and carrying materials up to 8 pounds.

Note

Lantern Community Services provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment. Lantern Community Services values the diversity of all our clients, staff, Board of Directors, and partners. By bringing diverse individuals and viewpoints together, we create more vibrant, healthy, and just communities.