Position Summary

The Utility & Benefits Navigator provides general assistance and resource navigation services to families. This screens families and enrolls them into programs for which they qualify, such as public benefits, housing assistance, energy conservation, utility assistance, budget counseling, case management, and emergency assistance. The Utility & Benefits Navigator links and refers clients to services such as career counseling, health workshops, children’s programs, and other services that work to move families toward self-sufficiency, prevent neglect, and divert them from entering the formal child welfare system. This position provides bilingual Spanish and English services to the community.

The Utility & Benefits Navigator works with the families for one month, to monitor progress and ensure they follow through with appointments and commitments. At least one follow-up contact will be made during these 30 days. Families needing additional support and/or going through a critical situation will be referred to FEC Tier 1 for further assessment and additional program services.

This position reports to the Tax & Benefits Manager. This is a Hybrid position. 

The Utility & Benefits Navigator applies the principles of the organization’s signature service delivery approach, Primary Client Model (PCM™), by promoting a positive employee/client-focused experience that is appreciative of the unique strengths, values and needs that each individual brings; and by using data to inform and drive decision making. Attention is given to compliance, quality assurance, and best practices as they relate to the role.

Congreso is committed to attracting and retaining candidates who have a passion for their work and will serve as ambassadors of the agency’s mission, values, and DEI&B vision.  We encourage all qualified individuals, including those of diverse backgrounds, differently abled, LGBTQ , and women to apply.   Congreso is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Essential Functions

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential

functions listed below.

Public Benefits, Utility Assistance, and Other Services

• Screen and conduct intake interviews with families (walk-ins) to determine their social service needs.
• Submits applications on behalf of clients for public benefits, utility assistance, and other services.
• Records each service and contact with clients into the required database and maintains a file for each client with the proper documentation. 
• Conducts 30-day follow-up with all clients to determine outcome of services.
• Facilitates educational energy program workshops.
• Submits client referrals to outside organizations and internal agency programs and conducts follow-ups after referrals are made.
• Participates in the development and maintenance of referral resources for clients.
• Provides a high level of customer service to clients, staff and external entities 

Administrative Duties

• Works closely with the program managers to ensure client files are up to date. 
• Routinely monitors funder databases to ensure client and staffing information is maintained.
• Keeps relevant data organized and easily accessible for department leadership and funders.
• Completes special projects specific to the function of the department, as needed. 

Competencies (Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities)

All Staff Competencies

• Basic understanding of Congreso’s mission, values, DEI&B vision, Mission2Impact, Primary Client Model, programs, and services.
• Demonstrates knowledge and understanding of the community needs and demographics.
• Ability to understand, acknowledge, and assess client needs to provide a timely, trauma informed approach in service.
• Ensures the appropriate handling of sensitive information and understanding for issues such as confidentiality, domestic abuse, child abuse, and mandated reporter requirements.
• Adheres to all Congreso, departmental, programmatic, and security policies, procedures, and guidelines.
• Attends all Congreso trainings and in-services as required, including relevant professional groups to maintain professional, requisite knowledge and licensure.
• Attends, participates, and facilitates relevant staff meetings to promote communication and execution of goals.
• Ability to effectively use standard office equipment, including a variety of common software programs such as Office365, UNIDAD, and other customized databases.
• Follows through on assignments, works in a timely manner, within established deadlines, and completes special projects specific to the function of the department, as needed or as directed by supervisor.
• Demonstrates ability to work independently and collaboratively with diverse groups, in a compassionate, courteous, and respectful manner that fosters an inclusive environment.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills including effective and respectful communication with individuals and groups. 
• Bilingual (Spanish/English) required.

Supervisory Responsibilities: 

This position has no supervisory responsibilities.

Minimum Experience, Education, and Qualifications

Minimum Education: 

Bachelor’s degree required. 

Minimum Experience: 

1 years’ experience in public benefits counseling or a similar field, required.

Demonstrated proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, required.

Certification/License: 

Mandated Reporter and Supporting Children and Families with Disabilities certificates, required and may be completed post-hire.