HOUSING NAVIGATOR bei Affordable Housing Alliance Inc

JOB TITLE:   Housing Navigator

RESPONSIBLE TO:   Program Manager - Homeless Services 

FLSA STATUS:     Non-exempt

This document is intended to describe the general duties required for this position.  It is not intended to serve as an exhaustive list of duties, skills and responsibilities.

 About the AHA

Founded in 1991 to address the overwhelming need for affordable housing in Monmouth County, the Affordable Housing Alliance (AHA) has grown from a small $25,000 grant into a multi million dollar annual operation and powerhouse non-profit. In our decades of service, we've developed over 600 affordable housing units with a strong pipeline fueling future growth. Our passionate team of difference-makers guides residents through every step of the housing journey - from homelessness prevention and rental assistance, to homebuyer education and foreclosure counseling.

At the Affordable Housing Alliance (AHA), we believe that safe, decent and affordable housing is a fundamental human right. Everyone deserves to feel secure, comfortable and supported in the place they call home. As a catalyst for change in our community, the AHA strives to uphold this right by providing comprehensive housing services and solutions for all who need it most.

Our Core Values

• Integrity- We demonstrate honesty and unwavering ethical conduct in all of our actions. At the AHA, we build trust through transparency and hold ourselves accountable to the highest standards.
• Hope - We meet each person where they are in their unique journey with genuine understanding. By offering tangible assistance, we nurture hope and empower individuals to build their path forward.
• Adaptability- We embrace change as an opportunity to innovate and grow stronger. At the AHA, we respond dynamically to evolving community needs, turning challenges into possibilities for those we serve.
• Community Service - We dedicate ourselves to uplifting others and improving lives through meaningful action. At the AHA, we create positive change by empowering individuals, fostering independence, and building a more vibrant community for all.

 JOB SUMMARY:   

The Housing Navigator plays a key role in swiftly identifying, assessing, and connecting individuals experiencing homelessness to the appropriate housing resources. The Housing Navigator works with a network of community providers throughout Ocean County to help strengthen and enhance the system that enables households to access housing and critical crisis support in the region. The Housing Navigator serves as the initial point of contact for individuals seeking housing assistance, conducting standardized assessments to determine vulnerability and service needs. This role offers the opportunity to make a direct impact by facilitating timely and effective solutions for those in need, improving access to housing and resources for individuals and families in crisis.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND DUTIES: 

Client Assessment and Case Management

• Conduct intake and standardized vulnerability assessments for individuals and families experiencing homelessness during initial contact
• Collect necessary documentation for housing referrals and develop individualized service plans
• Provide comprehensive case management services connecting clients to community resources such as healthcare, mental health services, and employment assistance
• Facilitate swift connection to appropriate housing programs by managing prioritization lists and coordinating with partner agencies
• Monitor client progress and adjust service plans as needed to support housing stability

Data Management and Reporting

• Create and maintain client files with accurate service plans, progress notes, and outcomes in the Homeless Management Information System (HMIS)
• Significant portion of role dedicated to database oversight, management and maintenance
• Ensure complete and accurate data entry and scan all documents into agency databases
• Generate client reports as requested and run monthly system error corrections as directed by supervisory staff

Collaboration and Communication

• Collaborate with local service providers to ensure smooth referral processes and minimize service barriers
• Participate in case conferencing meetings to coordinate care and problem-solve complex situations
• Demonstrate empathy and cultural sensitivity when working with diverse populations while maintaining professional boundaries
• Exhibit strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities in changing situations
• Work effectively with team members and community partners

QUALIFICATIONS/EDUCATION

• High School Diploma or equivalent
• Associate's degree or two years of relevant experience in social services, case management, or related field
• Commitment to housing first philosophy, trauma-informed approach, and low-barrier service delivery methods
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with ability to conduct effective interviews and maintain client confidentiality
• Demonstrated ability to read, interpret, and implement program policies and procedures
• Experience working with individuals facing financial hardship, homelessness, or vulnerable populations
• Proficiency in budget calculations and financial documentation review
• Exceptional attention to detail and data entry accuracy
• Valid driver's license and reliable vehicle for local and statewide travel during work hours

Preferred:

• Experience with HMIS or similar database systems
• Experience with Medicaid billing processes
• Knowledge of community resources and social service programs
• Background in crisis intervention and client advocacy

Community Outreach:

This position requires participation in community outreach events and organizational activities outside of regular business hours. Staff members are expected to attend assigned evening and weekend outreach events as part of their role responsibilities. These events may include but are not limited to community fairs, educational workshops, promotional activities, networking events, and public engagement initiatives. Participation in outreach events is considered an essential function of this position. Candidates should be prepared to work flexible hours including evenings and weekends as business outreach needs arise.

We Encourage Applicants Who:

• 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 insecurity

Expected annual base salary/hourly range:$23/hr 

Employees are eligible for:

• Medical, dental, & vision insurance
• Participate in the Company’s 401(k) program with employer matching
• Health savings and flexible spending accounts
• Basic Life and AD&D insurance
• Employee Assistance Program
• Paid Holidays 
• Paid 

Additional compensation: Base salary does not include other forms of compensation or benefits offered in connection with the advertised role