Job Description

Job Description

Job Description

JOB TITLE: Housing Navigator

RESPONSIBLE TO: Program Manager - Homeless Services

FLSA STATUS: Non-exempt

This document is intended to describe the general duties required for this position. It is not intended to serve as an exhaustive list of duties, skills and responsibilities.

About the AHA

Founded in 1991 to address the overwhelming need for affordable housing in Monmouth County, the Affordable Housing Alliance (AHA) has grown from a small $25,000 grant into a multi million dollar annual operation and powerhouse non-profit. In our decades of service, we've developed over 600 affordable housing units with a strong pipeline fueling future growth. Our passionate team of difference-makers guides residents through every step of the housing journey - from homelessness prevention and rental assistance, to homebuyer education and foreclosure counseling.

At the Affordable Housing Alliance (AHA), we believe that safe, decent and affordable housing is a fundamental human right. Everyone deserves to feel secure, comfortable and supported in the place they call home. As a catalyst for change in our community, the AHA strives to uphold this right by providing comprehensive housing services and solutions for all who need it most.

Our Core Values

• Integrity- We demonstrate honesty and unwavering ethical conduct in all of our actions. At the AHA, we build trust through transparency and hold ourselves accountable to the highest standards.

• Hope - We meet each person where they are in their unique journey with genuine understanding. By offering tangible assistance, we nurture hope and empower individuals to build their path forward.

• Adaptability- We embrace change as an opportunity to innovate and grow stronger. At the AHA, we respond dynamically to evolving community needs, turning challenges into possibilities for those we serve.

• Community Service - We dedicate ourselves to uplifting others and improving lives through meaningful action. At the AHA, we create positive change by empowering individuals, fostering independence, and building a more vibrant community for all.

JOB SUMMARY:

The Housing Navigator plays a key role in swiftly identifying, assessing, and connecting individuals experiencing homelessness to the appropriate housing resources. As a member of the Coordinated Entry team, the Housing Navigator works with a network of community providers throughout Ocean County to help strengthen and enhance the system that enables households to access housing and critical crisis support in the region. The Housing Navigator serves as the initial point of contact for individuals seeking housing assistance, conducting standardized assessments to determine vulnerability and service needs. This role offers the opportunity to make a direct impact by facilitating timely and effective solutions for those in need, improving access to housing and resources for individuals and families in crisis.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND DUTIES:

Client Assessment and Case Management

• Serves as the first point of contact for individuals and families experiencing homelessness.

• Conducts a standardized assessment of each household to determine vulnerability and service needs.

• Works with each household to collect necessary documentation for housing referrals

• Provides comprehensive case management services including developing individualized service plans and connecting clients to community resources such as healthcare, mental health services, and employment assistance.

• Facilitates swift connection to appropriate housing programs by managing the prioritization list and coordinating with partner agencies to match clients to available resources.

• Monitors client progress and adjusts service plans as needed to support housing stability.

Data Management and Reporting

• Promptly create and maintain regular updates to client files with accurate service plans, progress notes, and outcomes in the Homeless Management Information System (HMIS)
• Ensure accurate and complete information is entered in HMIS.
• Ensure all documents are scanned into agency databases as part of case management procedures
• Maintain accurate records and generate client reports as requested, running and correcting system errors on a monthly basis or as directed by supervisory staff.

Collaboration and Communication

• Collaborates closely with local service providers to ensure smooth referral processes and minimize barriers to accessing services.

• Participates in case conferencing meetings to coordinate care across agencies and problem-solve complex situations.

QUALIFICATIONS/EDUCATION

• High School Diploma or equivalent

• Associate's degree or two years of relevant experience in social services, case management, or related field

• Strong commitment to the housing first philosophy, trauma-informed approach, and low-barrier service delivery methods

• Strong interpersonal skills with demonstrated ability to conduct effective interviews and maintain client confidentiality

• Proven ability to read, interpret and implement program policies and procedures

• Experience working with individuals facing financial hardship, homelessness or vulnerable populations

• Proficiency in budget calculations and financial documentation review

• Strong attention to detail with excellent data entry skills

• Outstanding verbal and written communication abilities

• Local and statewide travel is required; candidates must have a driver’s license and use of a car during work hours.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience with HMIS or similar database systems

• Experience with Medicaid Billing

• Knowledge of community resources and social service programs

• Experience in crisis intervention and client advocacy

CORE COMPETENCIES

• Demonstrates empathy and cultural sensitivity when working with diverse populations

• Maintains professional boundaries while delivering compassionate service

• Exhibits strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities

• Collaborates effectively with team members and community partners

• Adapts quickly to changing situations and program requirements

We Encourage Applicants Who:

• Have experienced homelessness or housing insecurity and understand the barriers and opportunities within these experiences

• Are passionate about using their experiences to support others and advocate for change

• Bring a personal understanding of systemic challenges related to economic insecurity

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