Housing Navigator (4016)

MERCY HOUSE•Oxnard, CA

63d•$22 - $22

About The Position

The Housing Navigator supports individuals in Mercy House shelters by conducting needs assessments, creating housing plans, making referrals, and advocating for clients to achieve housing stability. Responsibilities include managing a caseload, coordinating with outside agencies, maintaining accurate documentation, and providing crisis intervention using trauma-informed and harm reduction approaches.

Requirements

Bachelor’s Degree in Human Services or related field preferred
At least 1 year of experience working with homeless and/or mentally ill populations
Candidates without a degree but with 2+ years of direct experience are encouraged to apply
Ability to maintain a safe, professional work environment
Ability to lift up to 50 lbs
Prolonged periods of desk/computer work
Must have reliable transportation
Understanding of confidentiality, ethical standards, and case management best practices
Effective written and verbal communication skills
Ability to work with diverse and underserved populations
Strong organizational and time management skills

Nice To Haves

Lived or professional experience with long-term homelessness, mental health, and recovery is valued

Responsibilities

Manage a caseload of 22–30 individuals
Conduct navigation assessments within 7 days of shelter entry
Determine eligibility and complete CES assessments for prioritization
Assist clients with obtaining necessary documentation (e.g., ID, birth certificate, income verification)
Provide information and referrals, crisis intervention, and housing placement assistance
Conduct screenings to gather relevant client information for Individual Service Plans
Enroll eligible clients in the CalAIM program
Provide support across all stages of service delivery: assessment, planning, engagement, and follow-up
Link clients to employment, benefits, substance use treatment, medical/mental health care, and other services
Use harm reduction and trauma-informed strategies, including motivational interviewing
Help clients develop problem-solving and self-care skills
Conduct crisis and risk assessments in collaboration with supervisor and team
Facilitate warm hand-offs to housing providers to support a smooth transition from shelter
Collaborate with outreach teams, health care networks, housing authorities, landlords, and social workers
Attend voucher briefings, match meetings, and CES connection events
Support clients in housing searches, application processes, and reasonable accommodation requests
Input and maintain accurate data in HMIS and update snapshots regularly
Work cooperatively with staff and volunteers to support agency mission and values
Attend internal and external meetings
Help develop resident programs and support shelter operations as needed
Communicate effectively with diverse populations
Demonstrate flexibility, empathy, and reliability in a fast-paced environment
Maintain accurate documentation: housing plans, case notes, files, and assessments
Assist with data entry and ensure deadlines are met
Willing to learn about mental health and substance use treatment services
Use appropriate software (Microsoft Office Suite, Outlook, HMIS, etc.)
Respond promptly to emails and phone calls
Prioritize tasks and perform duties independently
Complete other duties or special projects as assigned
Attend staff meetings and training workshops
Provide occasional support to shelter staff (e.g., answering phones, client check-ins, meal service)
Other duties as assigned by the Navigation Supervisor or Program Manager