Housing Navigator

Episcopal Community Services (ECS) • San Francisco, CA

3d • $28 - $30

About The Position

Housing Navigators assist clients throughout the process of locating and obtaining permanent supportive housing. As a result of ECS continuing to collaborate with the Department of Homelessness and Supportive Housing and other external stakeholders in launching this project, this job description may change both prior to hire, and after, as we continue to implement the best approach and services. Specific responsibilities include: Work with clients as assigned by the Manger of Housing Navigation Services. Outreach to pre-identified homeless persons and provide professional and culturally relevant support, advocacy, information and referrals in order to assess for eligibility, and engage and guide them through the housing application process. Maintain relationship with clients eligible for housing placement through the placement process. Assist clients in completing housing applications, including obtaining all documents necessary for a successful application, in interviews and in grievance processes should applications be denied. Support clients in moving into new housing should applications be accepted. Assist tenants with completing any required processes for housing providers certification/re-certification processes. Develop and maintain relationships with the relevant Property Managers, Leasing Agents, and/or support services staff at the sites where we are referring our clients for housing. Keep accurate, up-to-date records and charts via the HSH One System with attention to client privacy and confidentiality. Provide professional, accessible and culturally relevant support, advocacy, information and referrals to program participants Provide referral services as needed Work within and promote the integrated services team model in an environment dedicated to harm reduction, recovery, and wellness. Achieve a broad understanding of the housing-related resources and services available in the community for clients, particularly those with acute medical and behavioral health needs. This may include information such as rental assistance programs, IHSS services, food programs, and health and behavioral health services. Participate in regular Coordinated Entry team meetings. Provide crisis management response as needed to clients experiencing acute symptoms associated with their behavioral health issues. Collaborate with outside agencies and teams on behalf of clients to support their efforts to secure housing and resources that are essential to achieving housing stability. Assist clients in developing and learning appropriate methods of advocating for themselves. Participate in ongoing trainings provided by ECS, HSH and others as appropriate. Maintain confidentiality regarding patient health information and comply with all laws of confidentiality and HIPAA requirements. Consult with supervisor as needed regarding exceptions to confidentiality. Follow policies, procedures and protocols established by HSH and Episcopal Community Services. Maintain a cooperative and collaborative working relationship with the employees, volunteers and clients of Episcopal Community Services and other host shelters. Perform other duties as required.

Requirements

• Masters or Bachelors Degree in psychology, counseling social work, or related field a plus OR at least 3 years experience closely related to the job description.
• Substantial or demonstrated knowledge/experience working with individuals in crisis or unstable housing situations.
• A strong knowledge of issues confronted by and sensitivity to adults with substance abuse, domestic violence, HIV/AIDS, mental health issues, history of trauma and co-occurring-diagnoses.
• Demonstrated respect for, experience with and willingness to work with a diverse client population.
• Deep knowledge and understanding of the resources available to homeless and low-income residents of San Francisco.
• Articulate; exceptional verbal and written communication.
• Demonstrates the necessary attitudes, knowledge and skills to deliver culturally competent services and work effectively in cross-cultural situations.
• Professional and discreet demeanor with good interpersonal skills.
• Ability to handle confidential information and use of tact, respect, discretion and judgement.
• Organize material, information, and/or people in a systematic way to optimize efficiency and minimize harm or duplication of efforts.
• Experience working in integrated service teams using participant-centered, trauma-informed, harm-reduction approaches.
• Collaborative work style; demonstrated ability to work independently and effectively as an individual and part of a team for successful outcomes.
• Excellent Computer skills and knowledge of Microsoft Office software is required.
• Knowledge of current permanent supportive housing eligibility requirements, including HUD homeless regulations a plus.
• Knowledge of the ONE System preferred.
• Commitment to ECSs mission and to its organizational values.
• Ability to be flexible and adapt to changes as our Coordinated Entry activities respond to lessons learned and emerging needs.
• Must secure finger image screening and annual TB screening.
• Must be able to meet physical requirements of the position which may include long periods at a desk and/or computer workstation, daily travel to various sites, and lifting of up to 25 lbs.
• Demonstrate behavior that supports the organization’s mission, vision, and values.
• Adhere to all program, funder, and organizational policies, and procedures.
• Communicate effectively and model integrity, fairness, and ethical business practices.

Responsibilities

• Work with clients as assigned by the Manger of Housing Navigation Services.
• Outreach to pre-identified homeless persons and provide professional and culturally relevant support, advocacy, information and referrals in order to assess for eligibility, and engage and guide them through the housing application process.
• Maintain relationship with clients eligible for housing placement through the placement process.
• Assist clients in completing housing applications, including obtaining all documents necessary for a successful application, in interviews and in grievance processes should applications be denied.
• Support clients in moving into new housing should applications be accepted.
• Assist tenants with completing any required processes for housing providers certification/re-certification processes.
• Develop and maintain relationships with the relevant Property Managers, Leasing Agents, and/or support services staff at the sites where we are referring our clients for housing.
• Keep accurate, up-to-date records and charts via the HSH One System with attention to client privacy and confidentiality.
• Provide professional, accessible and culturally relevant support, advocacy, information and referrals to program participants
• Provide referral services as needed
• Work within and promote the integrated services team model in an environment dedicated to harm reduction, recovery, and wellness.
• Achieve a broad understanding of the housing-related resources and services available in the community for clients, particularly those with acute medical and behavioral health needs. This may include information such as rental assistance programs, IHSS services, food programs, and health and behavioral health services.
• Participate in regular Coordinated Entry team meetings.
• Provide crisis management response as needed to clients experiencing acute symptoms associated with their behavioral health issues.
• Collaborate with outside agencies and teams on behalf of clients to support their efforts to secure housing and resources that are essential to achieving housing stability.
• Assist clients in developing and learning appropriate methods of advocating for themselves.
• Participate in ongoing trainings provided by ECS, HSH and others as appropriate.
• Maintain confidentiality regarding patient health information and comply with all laws of confidentiality and HIPAA requirements.
• Consult with supervisor as needed regarding exceptions to confidentiality.
• Follow policies, procedures and protocols established by HSH and Episcopal Community Services.
• Maintain a cooperative and collaborative working relationship with the employees, volunteers and clients of Episcopal Community Services and other host shelters.
• Perform other duties as required.

Benefits

• ECS offers industry leading healthcare benefits to support your physical and mental well-being.
• ECS will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records as consistent with San Francisco's Fair Chance Ordinance.
• ECS values a workplace where every individual is respected, supported, and given equal opportunity to thrive.
• We are an equal opportunity employer dedicated to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level