COVENANT HOUSE TEXAS JOB DESCRIPTION
JOB TITLE : Housing Navigator / Inspector
DATE : October 01, 2024
DEPARTMENT : Program
REPORTS TO : Transitional Living Case Management Manager
CLASSIFICATION : Exempt
PRIMARY FUNCTION : In keeping with the Mission Statement and Principles of Covenant House, part of the Covenant House international network, is committed to giving homeless youth a safe haven, absolute respect, unconditional love, and a path to lasting independence through housing programs and providing a continuum of care through supportive services. The Housing Navigator / Inspector will assist youth experiencing homelessness to navigate the complex process of securing stable housing while ensuring the safety and quality of housing units. This dual-role position includes assessing the housing needs of youth, providing individualized housing navigation and support, and conducting housing inspections to ensure compliance with health and safety standards. This role operates within a trauma-informed care framework, prioritizing the emotional well-being and stability of youth while they transition from homelessness to permanent housing.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities :
Key Responsibilities :
1. Housing Assessment & Case Management :
- Conduct comprehensive housing assessments of youth to evaluate their housing needs, risks, and eligibility for housing programs, ensuring all assessments are trauma-informed and sensitive to individual experiences.
- Develop individualized housing plans that align with the unique goals and circumstances of each youth, providing ongoing support and guidance through the housing application and placement process.
- Assist youth with tenant eligibility and financial documentation required for rental applications.
- Offer emotional support and empowerment through a trauma-informed lens, recognizing and addressing the complexities of homelessness and the effects of trauma.
- Provide assistance with submitting rental applications, provide transportation during housing search, and counsel the youth regarding lease agreements.
2. Housing Navigation & Resource Connection :
Assist youth in identifying, applying for, and securing appropriate housing options, including family reunification, transitional housing, rapid rehousing, and permanent supportive housing in the Houston Community.Liaise with local landlords, property managers, and housing agencies to identify appropriate housing options.Provide education to youth on their rights and responsibilities as tenants, including lease agreements, financial planning, and tenant-landlord relationships.Maintain up-to-date knowledge of available housing resources, ensuring youth have access to the most relevant and timely opportunities.3. Housing Inspections :
Successfully complete the NSpire inspection course and obtain your license.Conduct regular housing quality standard inspection checklist for CHT units, ensuring that they meet health, safety, and habitability standards.Assess physical conditions of housing units, including plumbing, electrical systems, appliances, and overall cleanliness and safety, to ensure compliance with local housing regulations.Document inspection findings, providing feedback to Transitional Living Case Management Manager and CoC on necessary repairs or improvements required before youth can move in.4. Collaboration & Referrals :
Work closely with case managers and community partners to ensure coordinated support services are available for youth.Facilitate referrals to additional services, such as job training, educational support, healthcare, and legal assistance, as needed.Maintain effective communication with external housing agencies, landlords, and service providers to enhance youth access to housing opportunities.5. Documentation & Reporting :
Maintain accurate, up-to-date case files and records of housing assessments, inspections, and service plans in compliance with CHT policies and confidentiality guidelines.Prepare and submit reports related to housing assessments, outcomes, and inspection results as required by funders, management, and regulatory agencies.Track and report on housing placements, program outcomes, and other key performance metrics.Collecting & uploading necessary documentation, securing additional financial assistance if needed, providing transportation, accompaniment to potential housing options, etc.Ensure compliance with confidentiality standards, protecting the privacy of youth and maintaining secure records in accordance with agency policies and legal requirements.Track and report on client outcomes, goals, and service delivery, ensuring data is entered into the Homeless Management Information System (HMIS), Efforts to Outcomes (ETO) and other relevant systems.6. Collaboration with Multidisciplinary Team :
Collaborate with YES, case managers, mental health professionals, and employment counselors, to provide holistic care to youth.Participate in regular team meetings and case reviews, sharing updates on youth housing progress and identifying strategies to address any barriers to success.Work closely with community partners, such as social service agencies (CoC, Houston Housing Authority, Montrose Center Salvation Army, etc.), healthcare providers, and legal advocates, to ensure comprehensive support for each youth.7. Youth Engagement and Empowerment :
Build strong, trusting relationships with youth, creating a supportive and respectful environment where they feel safe and heard.Engage youth in the development of their housing case plans, setting achievable goals and identifying resources to help them succeed.Support youth in understanding their rights and accessing the resources they need to move forward in their lives.Encourage youth to develop life skills that promote long-term success, including decision-making, communication, and problem-solving.Provide services in a manner that prioritizes the safety, dignity, and well-being of youth, integrating trauma-informed care principles in every interaction.8. Community and Partner Relations :
Maintain positive, professional relationships with community partners, stakeholders, and service providers to expand the network of resources available to youth.Represent the agency at community meetings, trainings, and events, advocating for youth homelessness issues and resources.9. Self-Care and Professional Development :
Engage in regular self-care practices to manage the emotional demands of the role.Engage in ongoing professional development to deepen understanding of trauma-informed practices, youth homelessness, and housing stability.Qualifications :
Education & Experience :
Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Psychology, Human Services, or a related field.Minimum of 2 years of experience in housing programs, social services, or youth services.Strong knowledge of Rapid Rehousing principles, housing search processes, and resources available for youth in crisis.Understanding of trauma-informed care principles and their application when working with youth who have experienced homelessness, abuse, or other forms of trauma.Excellent communication skills, both oral and written, with the ability to engage and build rapport with youth, landlords, and service providers.Experience in crisis intervention and de-escalation techniques, with the ability to remain calm and effective in high-pressure situations.Proficient in case management software, such as HMIS, ETO, and Microsoft Office Suite.Ability to manage multiple priorities and work effectively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.Knowledge of community resources, including housing options, legal advocacy, mental health services, and youth development programs.Ability to work independently and as part of a team, demonstrating strong organizational and problem-solving skills.Must be able to perform physical and mental tasks related to the job, including meeting with youth in various settings and engaging in community outreach.Successful completion of background checks and the ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends as needed.Skills & Abilities :
Deep understanding of the psychological and emotional challenges faced by homeless youth and the impact of trauma on mental health.Ability to assess and respond to crisis situations, including developing risk management plans for youth in acute distress.Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build trust and rapport with youth, staff, and external partners.Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple projects and priorities effectively.Ability to work collaboratively across departments to ensure integrated care for youth residents.Working Conditions :
Work will be performed both in office settings and on-site at the shelter.Ability to travel between properties for housing inspections and youth placements.Exposure to sensitive and potentially challenging situations when working with youth experiencing homelessness.Why Join Us :
Covenant House Texas offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, and professional development opportunities. The Housing Navigator / Inspector will play vital role in helping youth assess their housing needs, identifying appropriate resources, and guiding them through the housing application process. The position requires a strong commitment to helping youth overcome housing instability and trauma, while providing them with the tools and support necessary for successful transition to independent living.
REPORTS TO : Transitional Living Case Management Manager
Supervisor : _______________________Date : __________________
Employee : _______________________Date : __________________
About Covenant House Texas :
Covenant House Texas (CHT) opened its doors in 1983 to provide shelter for homeless, abused and abandoned youth ages 18 – 24. After more than 35 years of service, CHT offers an extensive continuum of care model for homeless youth including mental health and substance abuse counseling, educational and vocational training, transitional and permanent living programs, street outreach and prevention, pastoral ministry and parenting classes in addition to providing the basic necessities of food, clothing, medical care and safe shelter from the streets for youth in crisis.
Salary : $45,000 - $50,000
