Homeless Services - Housing Navigator

Position Title: Homeless Services Housing Navigator

Department: Homeless Services

Position reports to: Homeless Services Manager

Status: Full-Time/Non-Union

Position Summary:

The Housing Navigator will assist individuals experiencing homelessness to navigate the systems of Permanent Supportive Housing, Tenancy Supportive Services and Social Service access. The position involves working both in-house and, in the field, collaborating with social services professionals, healthcare providers, and community organization. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of homelessness, affordable housing systems, and the social service networks that serve this vulnerable population. 

Key Responsibilities: 

Housing Assessment and Referrals: 

• Conduct thorough needs assessments for individuals experiencing homelessness, identifying housing preferences, needs, and eligibility for various housing programs.
  


• Assist clients in accessing emergency, transitional, and permanent housing options by providing referrals to appropriate programs and services.
  

Case Management & Care Coordination:

• Develop and implement individualized care plans, offering ongoing case management, follow-up, and advocacy to ensure access to services. Ensure clients are linked to appropriate housing, food, healthcare, and social services. Assist clients in completing necessary paperwork to enroll in services, including healthcare, public assistance, and housing programs.
  

Housing Search and Advocacy: 

• Actively search for available housing options including permanent supportive housing, rapid rehousing, and other low-income housing programs.
  


• Advocate on behalf of clients to landlords, property managers, and housing authorities to secure housing placements.
  


• Actively navigate HMIS and relevant housing service platforms.
  

Crisis Intervention: 

• Respond to immediate housing crises by developing short-term housing solutions offering temporary shelter placements, or emergency resources when necessary.
  


• 
  Provide emotional and practical support during crises, ensuring clients have access to timely intervention and services.
  


• Document all interactions and updates in the case management system, ensuring accurate and up-to-date records for tracking and reporting purposes.
  

EMR Documentation & Data Entry:

• Utilize Electronic Medical Records (EMR) systems (e.g., EPIC) to maintain accurate and confidential patient records. Enter appropriate data into Homeless Management Information Systems (HMIS) and other required databases.
  

Monitoring & Reporting:

• Perform daily follow-ups, wellness checks, and case updates to ensure clients’ needs are consistently met. Maintain organized files and reports for each client.
  

Qualifications: 

• Bachelor's degree in social work, human services, public health, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
  


• 
  At least 2 years of experience working with individuals experiencing homelessness, preferably in a housing navigation, case management, or social service setting. Experience working in street medicine or healthcare outreach programs is a plus. 


• 
  Strong knowledge of local housing resources, including rapid rehousing, emergency shelter options, and supportive housing programs. 


• Ability to build rapport and trust with individuals facing homelessness and other significant barriers.
  


• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
  


• Ability to work flexible hours as needed.
  


• Bilingual (English/Spanish)
  

Working Conditions: 

• The Housing Navigator will primarily work in the community, including outreach settings as well as administrative time in the office.
  


• The role will involve travel throughout the local area to visit client’s encampments, housing locations, and other service providers.