Digital Navigator na Town of East Hartford, CT

About the Department

The digital navigator provides individualized or small group assistance to community members who need affordable home internet service, internet-capable devices, and/or coaching in introductory digital skills in order to become effective home internet users. This is a part-time, grant-funded position. Schedule will be set at the mutual convenience of the candidate and the library (15 – 25 hours/week) with a pay rate of $25.50/hour.

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Statement:

The Town of East Hartford proudly stands as an equal opportunity employer, dedicated to fostering a work environment free from discrimination. We firmly uphold the principles of equality, ensuring that all individuals are treated fairly without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. Our commitment to inclusivity and diversity is unwavering, and we enthusiastically encourage applicants from all walks of life to join our team.

Position Duties

• Receive, return, and/or initiate contact with clients.
• Discuss with each client their home internet access or need for home internet access, technology experiences, and their devices.
• Assess their access to technology, current digital skill level pertaining to what they need to accomplish the plan, connectivity needs, and internet-use priorities. Set agreed-upon goals for Digital Navigator services.
• If necessary, advise clients about free or affordable home internet service options for which they may qualify, assist clients to apply for services they choose, and support their efforts to secure service.
• If necessary, advise clients about sources of affordable computers or other internet-connected devices for which they may qualify, and support their efforts to acquire appropriate devices and where they can get help for repair.
• Coach clients as necessary to use their home internet service in order to meet their internet use priorities. This may include in person, phone, and/or online interactions, as well as referral to sources of additional digital literacy skills training.
• Track each client’s progress and types of requests, keep accurate and timely records, and report outcomes as required.
• Plan and manage assistance to each client with the goal of fulfilling the agreed goals.

Minimum Qualifications

• Ability to learn and teach basic technological concepts related to internet services, computer and device characteristics, and common online services and applications.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent communication skills, including the ability to establish trust with clients of varied educational and cultural backgrounds.
• Positive attitude, cultural sensitivity, and a sense of humor.
• Ability to creatively solve problems, and to negotiate and handle stressful situations in a positive manner.
• Ability to establish appropriate boundaries with clients.
• Preference for bilingual language skills (Spanish)

Other Qualifications