Basic Needs Specialist

Program Specialist Requisition ID: req36350 Position Grade: 12 Position Summary 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 non‑judgmental 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. Conditions of Employment Employees who provide services or work in patient care or clinical areas are required to be in compliance with the University's influenza vaccination requirement. If located at the UNM Children's Campus, successful candidate must pass a comprehensive post‑offer, pre‑employment criminal and New Mexico Children, Youth and Families Department (CYFD) fingerprint background check, and a continued successful status will be verified by periodic future background checks. Minimum Qualifications High school diploma or GED; at least 6 years of experience directly related to the duties and responsibilities specified. Completed degree(s) from an accredited institution that are above the minimum education requirement may be substituted for experience on a year for year basis. Preferred Qualifications Bachelor's degree in social work, higher education, public administration, or a related discipline. Five years of direct service experience in providing services to young people in crisis or people requiring basic needs support or direct student services in higher education. Previous experience in a higher education setting or working with college students facing immediate crisis, is preferred. Experience in functionally operating a food pantry, including tasks such as inventory management, client intake, volunteer coordination, food safety compliance, and community partnerships. Familiarity with local, state, and federal assistance programs (e.g., SNAP, housing resources, transportation assistance). Ability and willingness to use a personal vehicle to manage donations, with valid auto insurance and a current NewMexico driver’s license. Bilingual or multilingual abilities. Additional Requirements This position requires a valid driver’s license and the ability to drive for work‑related tasks. Receipt of UNM's Defensive Driving Certification is required within the probation period. Candidate must be able to receive donations at a loading dock. Physical requirements include standing, walking, sitting, and squatting. Must be able to lift 20‑30 lbs. Successful candidate must submit to post‑offer, pre‑employment physical examination and medical history check. Equal Opportunity Statement Positions posted with a Staff Type of Regular or Term are eligible for the Veteran Preference Program. See the Veteran Preference Program webpage for additional details. The University of New Mexico is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. #J-18808-Ljbffr