What are the responsibilities and job description for the Housing Navigator position at MERCY HOUSE?
Job Details
Job Location: Bakersfield, CA
Position Type: Full Time
Education Level: Not Specified
Salary Range: $22.50 - $22.50 Hourly
Description
Schedule: Sunday-Thursday 10:30 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Job Summary: The Housing Solutions Navigator supports individuals experiencing homelessness by conducting assessments, determining eligibility, entering data into the Coordinated Entry System (CES), assisting with housing documentation, and providing employment and community resources. This role involves crisis intervention, case management, and facilitating transitions from shelter to permanent housing.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities:
Housing Navigation:
- Maintain a caseload of 22-30 clients.
- Conduct assessments within seven days of shelter entry and enter data into CES for housing provider linkage.
- Assist clients with obtaining required documents (ID, birth certificate, income verification, etc.).
- Provide crisis intervention, referrals, and help with permanent housing placement.
- Develop Individual Service Plans with short- and long-term goals.
- Offer employment linkage, benefits establishment, and connections to community providers for additional services (e.g., substance abuse, mental health care).
- Utilize harm reduction, trauma-informed care, and motivational interviewing techniques.
- Coordinate with community partners, housing authorities, and social workers.
- Attend housing voucher briefings and client match meetings.
Team/Staff Relations:
- Collaborate with Mercy House staff and volunteers to support the agency's mission.
- Participate in internal and external agency meetings and team-driven program planning.
- Maintain flexibility, trustworthiness, and empathy in a fast-paced environment.
- Communicate effectively with diverse populations.
Administration:
- Keep accurate, up-to-date client documentation (housing plans, case notes, assessments).
- Input data into HMIS and assist with other data collection systems.
- Maintain confidential files and respond to calls/emails promptly.
- Perform tasks independently, prioritize workload, and meet deadlines.
- Utilize Microsoft Office and position-specific systems.
Knowledge & Skills:
- Understanding of confidentiality and legal/ethical case management issues.
- Effective documentation practices and guidelines.
- Knowledge of Adult Rehabilitative Mental Health Services and Substance Abuse Treatments (preferred).
Qualifications
Requirements:
Education and Experience:
- Associate Degree in Human Services or a related field.
- At least 2 years of direct experience working with long-term homeless, low-income, and diverse populations, with a working knowledge of mental health and addiction issues.
- Ability to demonstrate a high level of tolerance and understanding for individuals with urgent, multiple case management and health needs.
General:
- Ability to perform crisis intervention as needed.
- Ability to clearly communicate information and instructions both verbally and in writing.
- Maintain a positive, professional, and safe environment while on duty.
- Establish and maintain effective working relationships with others.
Physical Requirements:
- Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
- Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
Salary : $23
