Family Navigator

New North Citizens Council Inc•Springfield, MA

1d•$0 - $23•Onsite

About The Position

The Bilingual Family Support Navigator provides information, referral, service navigation, and family support services to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families, in accordance with the Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services (DDS) Family Support Guidelines. Reporting to the Family Services Supervisor, the role helps families identify strengths and needs, develop individualized Family Support Plans, access community resources, and coordinate services that promote independence, family stability, and community inclusion. The position is grant-funded and full-time, based in Springfield, Massachusetts. Work takes place in office, family home, and community settings, with regular local travel potentially required. The role involves frequent computer use, communication with families and providers, and program documentation. It may also require standing, walking, bending, and transporting materials weighing up to 25 pounds. The position is non-exempt and hourly, with a stated pay rate of $23.00 per hour.

Requirements

Associate’s degree or at least three years of human services experience, including work with families of children and/or adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Knowledge of intellectual and developmental disabilities and the needs of individuals and families receiving support services.
Working knowledge of community resources, public benefits, entitlements, and human service systems.
Ability to assess family needs, identify appropriate resources, and develop individualized support plans.
Strong interpersonal, communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
Ability to build positive, respectful relationships with families from diverse cultural, linguistic, and socioeconomic backgrounds.
Ability to work independently, manage competing priorities, and collaborate effectively as part of a team.
Proficiency with computers, internet-based resources, and standard office software applications.
Ability to maintain accurate documentation, confidentiality, and professional boundaries.
Valid Massachusetts driver’s license and reliable transportation for travel to family homes, community locations, and program activities.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in Human Services, Social Work, Psychology, Education, or a related field.
Bilingual English/Spanish and bicultural skills.
Previous experience working with the Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services or DDS-funded Family Support programs.
Familiarity with DDS Family Support Guidelines and the Guiding Principles of the Family Support System.
Experience developing Family Support Plans and coordinating individualized services.
Experience facilitating family support groups, training sessions, or community networking activities.

Responsibilities

Provide information, referrals, and resource navigation to individuals and families seeking assistance.
Work with assigned families to identify strengths, competencies, needs, preferences, and available resources.
Develop and maintain individualized Family Support Plans that reflect families’ priorities, cultural and linguistic values, and preferences.
Provide short- and long-term navigation to help families access appropriate supports and services.
Help families understand and access public benefits, entitlements, community programs, and other resources.
Maintain ongoing communication with assigned families about changing needs and progress toward goals.
Provide services in accordance with DDS Family Support Guidelines and the Guiding Principles of the Family Support System.
Collaborate with DDS Service Coordinators to identify appropriate services and supports for referred families.
Coordinate flexible funding supports for designated families according to DDS requirements and program procedures.
Work with the local DDS Area Office to review referrals, service utilization, program capacity, and family support needs.
Coordinate with DDS personnel and community providers to support effective use of resources.
Maintain current knowledge of DDS services, eligibility requirements, and family support resources.
Identify and maintain current information about local services, public benefits, entitlements, and community resources.
Coordinate family training, support groups, networking events, and other activities responding to family needs.
Connect families with community organizations and service providers supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Promote family engagement, peer support, and community participation.
Maintain working relationships with community partners and service providers.
Maintain accurate, timely, and confidential records of family contacts, referrals, plans, and services.
Document navigation activities and family support needs in accordance with NNCC and DDS requirements.
Track and report service information, referrals, and resource utilization as required.
Follow DDS guidelines, NNCC policies, and confidentiality requirements.
Communicate service needs, barriers, and resource concerns to the Family Services Supervisor.
Participate in relevant training, conferences, program meetings, and professional development activities.
Maintain knowledge of intellectual and developmental disabilities, family support practices, community resources, and public benefit systems.
Work independently and collaborate with program staff, DDS personnel, families, and community partners.
Demonstrate flexibility, sound judgment, cultural sensitivity, and respect for family choice and self-determination.
Perform other related duties as assigned.