Housing Navigator - Homeless Shelter (4879)

MERCY HOUSE•Buena Park, CA

5d•$22 - $22

About The Position

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. Mission Statement: "To be a leader in ending homelessness by providing a unique system of dignified housing opportunities, programs, and supportive services."

Requirements

Bachelor’s Degree in Human Services or related field is preferred
At least 1 year of experience working with homeless individuals and mental health is preferred
Individuals 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 apply
Possess a high level of tolerance and understanding for individuals who present for services with urgent multiple case management and health needs
Knowledge of Confidentiality and legal/ethical standards in case management
Effective documentation practices
Ability to work effectively with a diverse population; plan, organize and prioritize duties; perform crisis intervention as needed; clearly communicate information and instructions verbally and in written form; maintain a positive, professional and safe environment while on duty; and establish and maintain effective working relationships with others
Ability to lift up to 50 pounds
Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer
Reliable transportation

Nice To Haves

Bilingual in Spanish is highly preferred

Responsibilities

Manage a caseload of 22–30 individuals and meet with clients as needed or directed
Complete navigation assessments within 7 days of shelter entry and enter data into CES for housing prioritization
Help clients obtain necessary documents (e.g., ID, birth certificate, income verification, Social Security benefits)
Provide referrals, crisis intervention, and support with permanent housing placement
Conduct comprehensive assessments to develop Individual Service Plans with short- and long-term goals
Support clients throughout all service stages: assessment, planning, engagement, and delivery
Connect clients with employment, benefits, healthcare, and community services
Use trauma-informed care, harm reduction, and motivational interviewing to provide client-centered services
Assist clients in developing coping skills, problem-solving, and self-management
Deliver strength-based case management focused on housing stability
Conduct crisis and risk assessments with supervisor and team
Facilitate warm handoffs to housing providers for smooth transitions
Collaborate with external partners (e.g., landlords, housing authorities, social workers, outreach teams)
Attend voucher briefings, match meetings, and support CES connections
Participate in training to build knowledge in areas such as co-occurring disorders, harm reduction, and cultural competence
Assist with housing searches, applications, reasonable accommodations, and move-in readiness
Maintain complete and accurate client data in HMIS
Work collaboratively with staff and volunteers to fulfill Mercy House’s mission and values
Attend agency meetings and assist in resident program planning
Thrive in a fast-paced team environment with flexibility, empathy, and effective communication
Maintain thorough, up-to-date documentation, including housing plans, case notes, and assessments
Support data collection efforts and meet reporting deadlines
Learn and understand mental health and substance abuse treatment models
Use required software and respond to communication promptly
Work independently and manage priorities
Perform other duties as assigned