Housing Navigator, Coordinated Eviction Prevention System (CEPS) Program

We’re seeking an Eviction Prevention (EP) Housing Navigator to join our team and make a meaningful impact on housing stability in our community. This role provides vital support to households at risk of eviction as part of our County-funded Coordinated Eviction Prevention System (CEPS) program.

Main Responsibilities/Duties 

• Support CEPS Case Managers with their households in navigating and applying for resource assistance programs, such as rental assistance, utility assistance, and other income support programs until the household’s housing stability is secured. 

• Research and maintain knowledge of available housing resources, including affordable housing, supportive housing, and temporary shelters. 

• Identify and maintain an active database of housing opportunities, including private market rentals, subsidized housing, transitional housing, and shared housing options. 

• Assist CEPS Case Managers with clients in identifying alternative housing options based on their needs and budget, including housing searches, contacting landlords, and reviewing lease agreements. 

• Advocate for clients with landlords, property management, and other housing providers to protect household rights. 

• Conduct outreach to landlords willing to work with CEPS, housing programs, and/or low-income renters. 

• Organize and lead housing or informational events for clients to meet potential landlords. 

• Monitor housing availability trends and rental market conditions to inform clients and program strategies. 

• Support clients during the housing transition process, including move-in logistics. 

• Connect households to legal services for eviction cases and submit internal financial assistance requests for households enrolled in the CEPS program. 

• Engage clients using motivational interviewing and trauma-informed care, with accessible meeting options (e.g., in-person, virtual, or community locations). 

• Provide non-clinical paraprofessional support, such as communicating with landlords, setting up payment plans, system navigation, and connecting households to community services. 

• Track and monitor the progress of enrolled households, maintaining accurate client records, including notes, financial records, and data for reporting and compliance. 

• Ensure that all households experiencing homelessness are entered into the local Homeless Management Information System (HMIS). 

• Collaborate with CEPS staff and community partners to improve program processes and services, supporting program design and effectiveness. 

• Actively participate in program-related meetings, collaboratives, and coalitions, including monthly CEPS program team and County meetings. 

• Perform other tasks as assigned by the Senior Program Manager of the Eviction Prevention Program. 

Qualifications 

• Commitment to the mission, vision and values of the organization. 

• Bachelor's degree or commensurate work experience in social work, housing, or other related field. 

• Experience providing case management services to underserved populations experiencing complex health, behavioral health, economic and/or educational barriers 

• Strong foundational knowledge of the eviction process in California, as well as general knowledge of the tools, local resources, and services available to prevent evictions 

• Ability to demonstrate knowledge of trauma-informed care and practices 

• Demonstrated relationship-building skills; possessing solid judgment, critical thinking skills, and a sense of teamwork and community 

• Access to reliable transportation and willingness to use it for job-related tasks (e.g., in-person appointments at the client’s home, City Heights CDC office, or other community locations) 

• Strong oral and written communication skills 

• Experience maintaining timely and accurate case files and compiling statistical data monthly 

• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively as necessary 

• Demonstrated ability to work with community partners and organization’s diverse constituents to develop a strong network of key community service providers that can support and further the mission of CEPS Program 

• Ability to accurately represent the organization and maintain positive working relationships with the public, clients/households served, funding entities, governmental agencies, etc.  

• High proficiency in Office, Salesforce, and openness to learn other data enhancement tools 

• Preferable - Ability to speak and write in a second language other than English (Spanish, Somali, Swahili, Arabic, Vietnamese, or other language) 

Hours and Compensation   

• 40 hours per week, exempt  

• Hourly range: $27-$31 per hour DOE

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance   

• 401K retirement plan with employer match   

• Employee Assistance Program  

• Generous paid time off and 11 paid holidays per year  

Additional Benefits    

• Offices are closed every other Friday (9/8/80 schedule)  

• Flexible and remote work schedule available   

• City Heights CDC is committed to the professional growth of all employees and provides training opportunities accordingly.  

Work Environment/Culture  

• Family Friendly. CHCDC provides a family-friendly work environment making it possible for employees to more easily balance family and work, and to fulfill both their family and work obligations.  

• Family-friendly practices/policies:   

• Every other Friday CHCDC offices are closed for employee day off   

• Flexible, remote work schedule available  

• Parental Leave – unpaid leave offered in accordance with State of CA PFL (Paid Family Leave).  

• In compliance with City Heights CDC’s mandatory vaccination policy, all employees and volunteers are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. New employees will be required to provide proof of full vaccination as a condition of employment.