Housing Navigator (Trenton, NJ)

Can you look into the eyes of someone who is struggling and see their pain – while also seeing their potential?  Are you passionate about providing opportunities to help people rebuild their lives?

The Mission is looking to expand our team of committed staff members who are dedicated to creating an environment where those who have nowhere else to turn can live with dignity, experience hope and see new opportunities.

Housing Navigator

Are you passionate about providing opportunities for individuals to rebuild their lives?  The Rescue Mission of Trenton is seeking a Housing Navigator for the Emergency Shelter.  The Housing Navigator will work under supervision of the Director of Emergency Services in conjunction with the Case Manager Coordinator to secure affordable housing for the chronically homeless.  In addition, this position will coordinate and provide direct counseling to assigned Emergency Shelter clients in need of pre-tenancy services.

About the Rescue Mission of Trenton:
Located in Trenton New Jersey we serve men and women who have no place else to turn for shelter, clothing, treatment and food. We provide a safe, clean, warm refuge for the homeless, the hungry, the transient and the addicted. Our services encourage individuals to reach their greatest potential and create an environment where one can live with dignity, build self-esteem, responsibility and hope. Your contribution to the work of our mission will be invaluable in fulfilling our mission and we look forward to welcoming you to our team.

What it’s like to work at the Rescue Mission of Trenton:
Rescue Mission of Trenton was founded in 1915 and is a non-profit organization that helps rescue people from themselves and their situations.  Our dedicated staff in the Shelter and our Behavioral Health Unit offer care, support and encouragement to all that reside here. We value dignity, communication and helping each of our clients reach their full potential.  Clients and residents are assisted by staff with treatment options, medical help, job placement, financial planning, education, counseling and mental health treatment.  Our staff works diligently with the clients to get ID, an income and the things necessary to help them with transitioning to housing. 

Qualifications for Position:

• Fluent in English and Spanish preferred (both written and verbal) 
• B.A. in Human Services, Psychology, Social Work, or other relevant field; or unrelated degree with minimum 2 years in human related services experience also accepted 
• Basic knowledge of the factors that support and hinder economic mobility  
• Computer proficiency
• Possess a valid driver’s license
• Familiarity with Fair Housing, subsidized housing and NJ State Landlord/Tenants Laws

• Evaluate individual housing needs for various housing programs
• Assist and facilitates connections with completing and navigating housing applications, negotiation of lease term, securing housing and advocating for client's needs and housing rights.
• Develop service plans and monitors/evaluates outcomes with follow-up home visits
• Maintain regular updates to client files with accurate service plans, progress notes, and outcomes in the Homeless Management Information System (HMIS)

• Collaborates closely with local service providers and landlords to ensure smooth referral processes and minimize barriers to accessing services

• Have experienced homelessness or housing insecurity and understand the barriers and opportunities within these experiences
• Are passionate about using their experiences to support others and advocate for change
• Bring a personal understanding of systemic challenges related to economic housing insecurity
• Exhibits strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities

Department: Emergency Shelter
This is a full time position

Salary : $54,000