Veterans Health Services Navigator (MSW)

Description

Summary                                                                                                                                          

Founded in Santa Clara County in 1928, Goodwill of Silicon Valley(GWSV) is dedicated to improving employment opportunities, increasing standards of living, and providing economic independence while restoring our clients’ sense of self-worth. We achieve this through workforce creation, vocational training, and environmental stewardship. With 18 retail stores, an online store, and an extensive reuse/recycling operation, we help individuals overcome barriers to employment, build sustainable lives, and strengthen communities. 

The Health Care Navigator for GWSV’s Veteran Family Services (VFS) program plays a crucial role in supporting low-income and homeless Veterans by connecting them to essential health care services. The Navigator collaborates with an interdisciplinary team to address barriers to care, advocates for Veteran-centered solutions, and provides education to improve health outcomes. This position combines outreach, case management, and health care coordination to ensure Veterans access comprehensive, equitable care. 

Job Responsibilities 

Health Care Navigation and Case Management 

• Assist Veterans in enrolling in VA health care or community health services if ineligible for VA care. 

• Provide comprehensive case management and care coordination across episodes of care—acting as a health coach by proactively supporting the Veteran to optimize treatment interventions and outcomes. 

• Support Veterans in understanding health care options, facilitating appointments, and overcoming barriers to care, including transportation and documentation challenges. 

• Work closely with Veterans to communicate health goals and preferences, supporting shared decision-making with health providers. 

• Collaborate with the interdisciplinary team to create, review, and adjust health care plans that support housing stability. 

• Help Veterans and family members communicate questions, needs, and plan modifications to the treatment team.  

• Assist in identifying health education needs and providing education services, materials, and referrals to specialized health educators.  

• The health care navigator will adhere to ethical principles about confidentiality, informed consent, compliance with relevant laws, and agency policies (e.g., critical incident reporting, HIPAA, Duty to Warn). 

Education and Resource Coordination 

• Provide health education and resources tailored to the Veteran’s needs and literacy level, covering topics such as wellness, preventive care, and chronic disease management. 

• Coordinate referrals to internal and external resources, ensuring that Veterans have access to additional support services (e.g., housing, financial assistance, transportation). 

• Guide Veterans in managing health goals, connecting them to resources that support self-care and wellness. 

Outreach and Client Engagement 

• Implement outreach plan and strategy that supports the goals of Goodwill of Silicon Valley's VFS (Veteran Family Services) program. 

• Connect with potential clients and conduct pre-screens for follow-up by the Case Managers. 

• Build strong referral networks within the community – e.g., Veteran emergency and transitional housing facilities, Veterans Administration, and other Veteran-facing organizations. 

• Represent Goodwill of Silicon Valley at community events. 

• Develop in-depth knowledge of the VFS program requirements. 

• Maintain a contact list of all referral sources. 

• Maintain a record of all completed pre-screens forms. 

• Adhere to all relevant operational, reporting requirements, and standards of Mission Services 

• Perform other duties as required. 

Documentation and Administrative Duties 

• Maintain detailed case notes in alignment with Goodwill’s and SSVF’s documentation standards. 

• Enter data accurately into HMIS and other digital platforms as required, ensuring timely reporting. 

• Participate in ongoing training, case conferences, and team meetings to maintain best practices and comply with policies. 

• Conduct regular reviews to track Veterans’ progress and adjust care plans as needed. 

Qualifications

Preferred Qualifications and Experience                                                                                   

• At least two years in a health care or social services role; familiarity with Veterans' services and the VA system is strongly preferred. 

• Veteran status is strongly preferred. 

• Master’s level social worker or equivalent education and experience is preferred.  

• Social workers with an LCSW Strongly preferred with the acknowledgment that this role cannot provide clinical treatment to the veterans 

Skills, Abilities, and Knowledge                                                                                                   

• Strong knowledge of veteran-specific issues and homelessness. 

• Excellent written and oral communication skills. 

• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple cases and priorities simultaneously. 

• Ability to collaborate effectively with community partners and external agencies. 

• Proficient with Microsoft Office and client management databases. 

• Critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. 

• Strong sense of empathy and accountability, with a passion for helping vulnerable populations. 

• Knowledge of local resources for veterans, including housing, employment, healthcare, and benefits programs. 

Other Requirements                                                                                                                       

• Valid CA driver’s license and reliable transportation. 

• Ability to pass a background check and any required security clearances. 

Working Conditions                                                                                                                       

This job is performed indoors in a typical office environment, with regular interactions with clients, community partners, and external agencies. The position may require occasional travel for client meetings, community outreach, and collaboration with partner organizations. 

The role is moderately paced, with occasional high activity levels and deadlines. Teamwork is a key element in the success of this position, and the work environment encourages collaboration across departments. 

Physical Requirements                                                                                                                    

The role involves primarily sedentary work with occasional light physical activity, such as lifting up to 20 pounds and moving supplies or equipment. The job requires frequent use of a computer, phone, and other office equipment. Periods of standing, walking, or meeting with clients outside the office may be required. 

Emotional Effort                                                                                                                              

The position requires moderate emotional effort, with occasional high-stress situations due to client needs, deadlines, and the urgency of services provided. Maintaining composure and professionalism in these circumstances is essential. 

Salary : $33 - $35