Housing Navigator - Homeless Shelter (6056)
MERCY HOUSE·Buena Park, California
MERCY HOUSE·Buena Park, California
The Housing Navigator manages a caseload of individuals in the shelter system to help them achieve housing stability through assessments and individualized service plans. They coordinate with external agencies and provide crisis intervention and advocacy to secure permanent housing.
Client/Service Delivery Manage a caseload of 22–30 individuals and meet with clients as needed or directed Complete navigation assessments within 7 days of shelter entry and enter data into CES for housing prioritization Help clients obtain necessary documents (e.g., ID, birth certificate, income verification, Social Security benefits) Provide referrals, crisis intervention, and support with permanent housing placement Conduct comprehensive assessments to develop Individual Service Plans with short- and long-term goals Support clients throughout all service stages: assessment, planning, engagement, and delivery Connect clients with employment, benefits, healthcare, and community services Use trauma-informed care, harm reduction, and motivational interviewing to provide client-centered services Assist clients in developing coping skills, problem-solving, and self-management Deliver strength-based case management focused on housing stability Conduct crisis and risk assessments with supervisor and team Facilitate warm handoffs to housing providers for smooth transitions Collaborate with external partners (e.g., landlords, housing authorities, social workers, outreach teams) Attend voucher briefings, match meetings, and support CES connections Participate in training to build knowledge in areas such as co-occurring disorders, harm reduction, and cultural competence Assist with housing searches, applications, reasonable accommodations, and move-in readiness Maintain complete and accurate client data in HMIS Team/Staff Relations Work collaboratively with staff and volunteers to fulfill Mercy House’s mission and values Attend agency meetings and assist in resident program planning Thrive in a fast-paced team environment with flexibility, empathy, and effective communication Administration Maintain thorough, up-to-date documentation, including housing plans, case notes, and assessments Support data collection efforts and meet reporting deadlines Learn and understand mental health and substance abuse treatment models Use required software and respond to communication promptly Work independently and manage priorities Perform other duties as assigned Knowledge of Confidentiality and legal/ethical standards in case management Effective documentation practices QualificationsRequirements: Education and Experience Bachelor’s Degree in Human Services or related field is preferred At least 1 year of experience working with homeless individuals and mental health is preferred Individuals with less than a BA/BS degree but with at least 2 years of direct life experience working with long-term homeless, low-income, and diverse populations and have a working knowledge of mental health and recovery are welcome to apply Possess a high level of tolerance and understanding for individuals who present for services with urgent multiple case management and health needs General Bilingual in Spanish is highly preferred Ability to work effectively with a diverse population; plan, organize and prioritize duties; perform crisis intervention as needed; clearly communicate information and instructions verbally and in written form; maintain a positive, professional and safe environment while on duty; and establish and maintain effective working relationships with others Physical Requirements Ability to lift up to 50 pounds Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer Reliable transportation
A Bachelor's degree in Human Services or related field is preferred, or 2 years of direct experience working with homeless and low-income populations. Proficiency in Spanish is highly preferred, along with the ability to perform crisis intervention and maintain professional documentation.
Market context
In California, Housing Navigator roles are often tied to ongoing shelter and housing-placement needs, especially for candidates who can support clients facing homelessness and low income. This role is competitive because employers typically look for a human services background or direct experience, Spanish proficiency, crisis intervention skills, and strong documentation. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save time, then tailor your application to show shelter experience and client-facing case coordination.
