Housing Navigator (4260)

Status: Full-Time, Non-Exempt Payrate: $22.50/Hour Schedule: Tues-Sat: 10:00 am - 6:30 pm (Off: Sun-Mon)Mission Statement: "To be a leader in ending homelessness by providing a unique system of dignified housing opportunities, programs, and supportive services."Benefits Offered:100% medical coverage of base tier monthly premiumVoluntary dental and vision insurancePaid Time Off (Vacation + Sick Pay)Flexible Spending AccountEmployee Assistance Program403(b) savings plan with up to 3% company matchingPaid on-the-job training and orientationMileage reimbursementReferral bonus programOpportunities for career growthJob Summary: The Housing Navigator is responsible for supporting individuals in the shelter system through ongoing needs assessments, housing plans, referrals, and advocacy for individuals at our Mercy House shelters to help them achieve housing stability. The role requires creating individualized service plans, coordinating with external agencies, and using trauma-informed care and harm reduction strategies. This position involves managing a caseload, keeping clear and accurate files, and providing crisis intervention and housing support services.Essential Duties and Responsibilities:Client/Service DeliveryManage a caseload of 22-30 participantsConduct navigation assessments within 7 days of shelter entry and enter data into CES for housing prioritizationDetermine eligibility and assist clients with documentation needed for housing and benefitsComplete comprehensive assessments and develop Individual Service Plans with short- and long-term goalsProvide case management through all stages: assessment, planning, engagement, and service deliveryEnroll eligible clients in CalAIM and coordinate servicesDeliver referrals, crisis intervention, and housing placement supportUtilize trauma-informed care, motivational interviewing, harm reduction, and strength-based approachesCoordinate employment, benefits, healthcare, substance use treatment, and community resourcesConduct crisis and risk assessments in collaboration with supervisors and teamFacilitate warm handoffs to housing providers and support transitions into housingAssist with housing searches, applications, reasonable accommodations, and move-in readinessCollaborate with community partners, housing authorities, landlords, outreach teams, and care networksSupport clients at voucher briefings, CES match meetings, and related appointmentsAttend trainings related to client needs, including co-occurring disorders and cultural competenceTeam/Staff RelationsWork collaboratively with staff and volunteers to support Mercy House's mission and valuesParticipate in internal and external meetings and team-based program planningDemonstrate flexibility, adaptability, reliability, empathy, and effective communication with diverse populationsAdministrationMaintain accurate and timely client documentation, case notes, and data in HMISMeet deadlines and support data collection systemsUse required software and systems efficientlyRespond promptly to calls and emails; prioritize and manage workload independentlyGain knowledge of adult mental health and substance use treatment servicesPerform additional duties and projects as assignedMiscellaneousAttend staff meetings and trainingsProvide logistical support to shelter operations as neededComplete ad hoc tasks assigned by the Navigation Supervisor or Program ManagerRequirements:Education and ExperienceBachelor's Degree in Human Services or related field preferredAt least 1 year of experience working with homeless individuals and mental health preferredIndividuals with less than a BA/BS degree but with at least 2 years of direct life experience working with long-term homeless, low income, and diverse populations and have a working knowledge of mental health and recovery are welcome to applyPossess a high level of tolerance and understanding for individuals who present for services with urgent multiple case management and health needPossesses confidentiality and the legal and ethical issues pertaining to case managementEffective documentation and guidelinesGeneralAbility to clearly communicate information and instructions verbally and in written formMaintain a positive, professional and safe environment while on dutyEstablish and maintain effective working relationships with othersReliable transportationPhysical RequirementsAbility to lift, bend, push, and pull up to 50 poundsProlonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer