Housing Navigator

Position Title:               Housing Navigator                    

Department:                 Human Services Department                        

Supervisor:                  Director, Massachusetts Veteran Connect

Exemption:                  Non-Exempt

Job Summary:

As part of the Massachusetts Veteran Connect Team, provide all aspects of housing navigation, assistance and advocacy to Veterans experiencing homelessness in the City of Boston. Develop ongoing landlord relationships, and work to meet various grant guidelines, objectives and outcomes.

Job Responsibilities:

• Provide housing search assistance and navigation for Veterans experiencing homelessness in Boston who are not eligible for the Supportive Services for Veteran Families’ (SSVF) Rapid Rehousing Program.
• Assist residents with all aspects of housing readiness, through individual and group meetings to understand and obtain CORI & credit reports, assist with gathering needed identification, complete housing applications, & assist with mitigating issues related to housing.
• Assist Veterans with working through extensive legal and housing barriers. Assist with the search for appropriate housing. Utilize and coordinate housing efforts with representatives from NECHV, local Housing Authorities and other programs working with homeless assistance.
• Assist residents in the physical transition from NECHV, shelter or places not meant for habitation into permanent housing (furniture banks, moving services, rental assistance), accompanying Veterans to view apartments and furniture banks, as needed.
• Work collaboratively with lead Case Managers and other team members regarding housing issues and needs.
• Ensure all data collection and documentation procedures are adhered to according to deadlines.
• Understand the special needs of senior Veterans and Veterans with behavioral health diagnoses by engaging in regular check ins and housing needs assessments.
• Bring all critical issues to the Director, Massachusetts Veteran Connect and other clinical staff for homelessness prevention interventions.
• Attend Program, Department meetings and trainings as well as meetings with collaborating agencies as required.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Services preferred, with 1 to 3 years of experience.
• Experience with case management, navigating community-based resources, subsidized housing placements, persons experiencing or at risk for homelessness, mental illness, and substance use disorders.
• Understanding of and commitment to Motivational Interviewing, Harm Reduction, Cultural Competency and Trauma Informed Care.
• Excellent customer service skills and the ability to communicate professionally with employees and enrollees both on the phone and in person.
• Proficiency with electronic databases and computers.
• Flexible self-starter with strong analytical skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of military culture.

Essential Functions:

• Must be able to travel through, and to work in the greater Boston community, housing agencies, landlords, and various homelessness advocacy groups.
• Ability to work comfortably with a multicultural, homeless population experiencing complex challenges.
• Must understand and maintain personal and professional boundaries while demonstrating respect and compassion for Veteran population.
• Strong organization skills.
• Strong computer, database and electronic recording keeping skills.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Able to work collaboratively with other clinical teams, other Center programs and departments.
• Massachusetts Driver’s License.
• Able to work independently when required.