Full-time | $55,000 – 65,000 | Chicago, IL

About The Role

The Financial Counselor provides individualized financial counseling and money management support to Ark clients, including those referred through Social Services/Case Management, the Gesher day program, and other Ark programs. As a member of the Social Services and Housing teams, this role focuses on building financial stability through regular client meetings, goal setting, education, and follow-up. The Financial Counselor also assists in administering our Shallow Subsidy and New Beginnings programs. Success in this role means clients experience increased financial organization, confidence, and stability, while funds are managed ethically, transparently, and in accordance with Ark policies. This position is based in West Rogers Park, with possible weekly travel to our Northbrook location.

What You’ll Do

Financial Counseling and Client Support

• Conduct regularly scheduled one-on-one meetings with clients to assess financial needs, goals, and challenges
• Develop individualized financial plans in collaboration with clients, including budgeting, bill management, debt prioritization, and savings goals
• Offer financial education tailored to clients’ cognitive, emotional, and functional needs
• Support clients in understanding income sources, benefits, and expenses
• Help clients address urgent financial issues such as utility shutoffs, arrears, and collections

Shallow Subsidy and New Beginnings Program Support

• Maintain accurate, up-to-date financial records and documentation for all managed accounts
• Communicate clearly with clients regarding account activity, balances, and financial decisions

Program Integration and Collaboration

• Collaborate closely with the Social Services and Housing teams, including the Benefits Navigator, to coordinate financial, benefits, and housing support
• Accept referrals from Social Services/Case Management, Gesher, and other Ark programs and coordinate care across programs
• Attend Social Services and Housing meetings as needed to support integrated client care
• Participate in team meetings, conferences, and supervision

What You’ll Bring

• Experience providing financial counseling, financial coaching, or money management services (required)
• Strong knowledge of budgeting, basic financial management, and benefits income
• Ability to explain financial concepts clearly and accessibly to diverse clients
• High level of ethical judgment, discretion, and attention to detail
• Ability to collaborate effectively within multidisciplinary teams
• Ability to travel to our Northbrook location, possibly weekly
• Experience working with individuals with mental health challenges or complex needs is strongly preferred
• Bachelor’s degree in finance, social work, human services, accounting, or a related field is preferred
• Relevant certifications or coursework in financial counseling, financial coaching, or benefits management is preferred
• Experience administering trust accounts or serving as representative payee is preferred
• Knowledge of Jewish traditions, values, and communal practices, or demonstrated willingness and ability to learn and engage respectfully within a Jewish communal setting

Why You’ll Love Working Here

• No-Cost HMO Health Insurance with PPO plan options through BlueCross BlueShield
• 100% employer-paid vision and dental coverage
• PTO, sick leave, and generous Jewish and secular holiday time off
• Retirement Plan with matching
• 1 remote day per week after the first 90 days
• A supportive, collaborative workplace rooted in compassion, integrity, and impact

How to Apply:

• Please apply on our careers page.

The Ark is proud to be an equal opportunity employer, welcoming candidates from all backgrounds and experiences. The Ark celebrates diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive and supportive workplace.