Social worker (Full time)

Posted: February 2026

To Apply: Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter describing relevant experience and interest in benefits enrollment work to Chandler Jones, HR Manager @ CJones@elderjusticeny.org .No phone calls, please.

Location: This position will be based out of our Dunkirk location.

Salary Range: Starting at $50,000 and will be based on union steps in current CBA

About CELJ:

Center for Elder Law & Justice (CELJ) is a civil legal services organization fighting for justice, primarily for low-income older adults, in 10 counties in Western New York. Our attorneys stop illegal evictions, save clients homes from foreclosure, put a stop to elder domestic violence, fight for public benefits, work with our local immigrant & refugee populations, and represent grandparents and other kinship care relatives in custody and neglect petitions in family court. We also advocate for systems-wide policy changes, commenting frequently on changes to regulations and working with local elected leaders on legislation that will impact the poor and vulnerable older adults in our area. We believe that independence and dignity are the hallmarks of justice.

Position Summary: Center for Elder Law & Justice is looking to fill a full-time Social Work role to work within our Elder Abuse Unit.

Job Summary:

  • Responsible for intake of new clients, assessing needs and making appropriate referrals

  • Interview clients, family/friends, and facility staff, as well as medical records and other paperwork

  • Engage in trauma-informed brief supportive counseling

  • Provide safety planning with clients

  • Accompany clients to family court proceedings, as needed

  • Communicate with clients throughout their cases, including letter drafting and correspondence

  • Investigate and fact-find for cases

  • Assist with E-MDT clients and case needs in Chautauqua and Cattaraugus Counties

  • Provide advocacy and support for clients on legal and non-legal cases under the guidance of the unit director and attorney

  • Act as a community resource for professionals and other agencies for issues concerning Elder Abuse

  • Provide training, community outreach, and education to individuals and local community-based organization, and other advocates

  • Coordinate and collaborate with other groups and organizations

  • Notarize documents, as needed

  • Represent the civil practice and legal aid in the community

  • Promote the work of the office and civil practice

Qualifications:

  • BSW, preferred

  • Notary designation, or must obtain within 6 months of start date

  • 1 – 5 years of experience in a similar role

  • Experience with trauma informed care, helpful

  • Legal services or public interest background, helpful

  • Strong, professional, verbal and written communication skills

  • Some travel and in-home visits, required

  • Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment, with a high caseload

  • Ability to work efficiently and accurately while exhibiting patience and diplomacy

CELJ offers a competitive benefits and compensation package, including:

  • Generous vacation and sick time

  • 90% - 100% employer covered health insurance

  • Fourteen holidays a year, plus two half-day holidays

  • Additional paid time off between winter holidays

  • Summer hours between Memorial Day and Labor Day

  • Payment of license fees and association dues

  • Encouragement of professional development

  • Eligible for Federal Loan Forgiveness

CELJ is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer and welcomes all to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Employer recruits without regard to sex, race, sexual orientation, or gender identity, and any such candidates are strongly encouraged to apply