Independent Living Program Navigator

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES :

• Provide supportive case management services that help youth navigate their independent living goals. Facilitate workforce development classes, independent living classes and life skill activities as designated by the Independent Living Program Coordinator. Ensure that case management services are rendered to youth in a culturally competent manner according to CHF Mission and Principles and Core Values.
• Conduct individualized Independent Living assessments to determine the skill levels of residents. Develop comprehensive plans based on these assessments, addressing specific needs to support residents in their journey towards independence. Take an active part in team meetings and provide vital information about youth and referrals.
• Complete all documentation neatly and accurately (i.e. case records, incident reports, data entry). Ensure documentation is completed in a timely manner and meets standards established by state license requirements, funding sources, and agency policies, including filing and tracking data.
• Supervise youth, maintain order, remain alert, and exercise appropriate judgment at all times (i.e. at mealtimes, on the residential floors, in common areas, recreation activities, and during escorts). Assist youth in emergencies as directed by supervisor. Defuse physical and verbal confrontation with youth served, using appropriate verbal behavioral de-escalation techniques.
• Maintain a clean and safe environment. Assist and supervise youth in general cleanliness of all common areas.
• Establishes appropriate boundaries with youth to ensure staff and youth's safety and security.
• Communicate pertinent information with staff and youth throughout each shift. Communicate mutual support, honesty, and caring for all youth and staff.
• Drive company vehicles to escort youth to and from activities, hospital visits, school, and various other appointments.
• Must be able to occasionally exert up to 15-20 pounds of force to lift or carry. Must frequently move about both indoors and outdoors.

JOB REQUIREMENTS :

EDUCATION : Bachelor's degree in human services, psychology, counseling, criminal justice, or social work required.

EXPERIENCE : Minimum of two years of work history and two years of experience working with at risk youth preferred. Knowledge of workforce development, life skills, and independent living functions.

SCHEDULE : Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday 8a-4p; Thursday, Friday 1p-9p. Requires flexibility with weekly work schedule to meet needs of youth.

SKILLS : Must be a self-starter that takes initiative to complete tasks and team player with the ability to work well with others. Must have general knowledge of necessary employability skills for the updated workforce. Must have demonstrated ability to maintain order and exercise appropriate judgement in crisis situations including the physical ability to intervene in critical or emergency situations. Excellent communication skills as demonstrated by concise, timely and professional correspondence, both written and verbal. Ability to be flexible, adapt to and adjust to rapid changes within a fast-paced environment. Strong problem solving and negotiating skills with the ability to persuade and motivate others. Demonstrated understanding of conflict resolution skills and sensitivity to culturally diverse populations and computer literacy is required.

TRANSPORTATION : Must have a valid FL driver's license and good driving record. May need to transport clients / staff if required using agency transportation.

WORKING CONDITIONS : The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee may work occasionally in outside weather conditions. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate to loud. Must be able to lift up to 20 lbs. on occasion, bend, sit and stand for prolonged periods of time. Some weekend / holiday work may be required.

SUPERVISORY DUTIES : This position does not perform supervisory duties.

EQUIPMENT USED : Must be able to utilize basic word processing, email, and internet programs. Must be able to communicate effectively both orally and in written form. Must be familiar with employment search engines and supportive tools.