Wayfinder Specialist

Wayfinder Specialist Sunrise Homeless Navigation Center - 3.7 Austin, TX Job Details Full-time From $25 an hour 1 day ago Benefits Health insurance Dental insurance Paid time off Employee assistance program Vision insurance Professional development assistance Qualifications Spanish Bachelor's degree Case management Training & development

Delegation Full Job Description About Sunrise:

Since 2015, Sunrise Homeless Navigation Center is the largest provider of homeless services in Travis County! We offer pathways to housing for people experiencing homelessness through low-barrier access to wraparound services by providing innovative, trauma-informed, and person-centered programming that engages our communities and leads system-wide transformation. Through the Sunrise Hub day center, Sunrise Hotline call center, Sunrise Mobile outreach and shelter services, and Sunrise Housing program we serve more than 8,000 people experiencing homelessness each year.

Reports To :

Wayfinder Program Manager FLSA Classification :

Non-Exempt Position Summary:

The Wayfinder Specialist acts as a key point of contact for individuals and families who are at risk of homelessness or currently experiencing homelessness. This role assesses eligibility for Diversion and Rapid Exit services, processes applications for deposit assistance, and coordinates resources to support clients in exiting or preventing homelessness. The Specialist is responsible for helping manage and complete data in the Budget Tracker and Wayfinder check-ins, as well as tracking and maintaining data in Asana.

Position Qualifications:

Current or previous HMIS licensure preferred Bilingual (Spanish) required Applicants with the ability to supervise Social Work interns will be given preference (Bachelor of Social Work, Master of Social Work, etc). Experience in successfully navigating information systems and technology platforms is required.

Position Responsibilities :

Diversion/Rapid Exit:

Assess client diversion/rapid exit eligibility and service needs, and conduct Wayfinder intakes at the hub as needed Review and process Wayfinder applications and submit them for approval in accordance with program guidelines Coordinate with landlords to facilitate and process program-related payments Support clients throughout the application process, ensuring smooth transitions and resolving issues Work in a fast-paced environment to diligently process a high volume of applications until monthly funding is fully allocated

Coordinated Assessments:

Engage clients waiting for case management to assess eligibility for Coordinated Assessments (CA) Manage and update the Coordinated Assessment list during open hours, delegating assessments as part of the workflow Personally conduct at least five CAs a month

Referrals and Resource Navigation:

Develop and maintain a comprehensive knowledge of local homeless services and resources Provide accurate referrals based on individual client needs, offering guidance on housing and social services

Documentation and Reporting:

Maintain accurate, confidential records of assessments, client interactions, and diversion activities Generate regular reports to evaluate assessment trends and the effectiveness of referrals and diversions Maintain and update program data across

FY Budget Tracker, Clarity, Asana, and Google Drive Collaboration and Communication:

Coordinate with property managers, hosts, and internal teams to secure and facilitate diversion opportunities Communicate with clients and landlords to follow up on applications and ensure all parties understand requirements, timelines, and next steps

Approval Process and Follow-Up:

Submit diversion proposals for approval and follow up with clients to coordinate move-ins and address any challenges Track and measure program effectiveness through follow-ups at 30, 60, 90, 180, and 365 days for all diversions/rapid exit transactions

Program Oversight and Improvement:

Collaborate with the Wayfinder Program Manager to optimize the Wayfinder program as it evolves Identify opportunities for process improvements to increase program efficiency and accessibility. Provide feedback from client interactions to support ongoing program development Assist in training new employees and interns about the Wayfinder rules and regulations

General Responsibilities:

Facilitate connections to Sunrise programs and case managers as needed Maintain a professional demeanor, a safe work environment, and strict confidentiality Demonstrate problem-solving abilities, manage priorities, and meet internal and external deadlines Collaborate with internal teams and external service providers, attending meetings when required Uphold respect, courtesy, and flexibility in addressing client and program needs Other duties as assigned

Additional Expectations:

Ensure a safe and confidential work environment at all times. Demonstrate proactive, creative, and flexible problem-solving skills. Organize and prioritize multiple tasks to meet deadlines. Maintain a professional demeanor that reflects positively on the organization. Show respect and courtesy to clients, colleagues, and community partners. Excel in a team-oriented environment with a focus on collaboration. Communicate promptly and effectively in all aspects. Work independently with minimal supervision. Establish and maintain strong boundaries for decision-making and safety planning. Effectively multitasks in a fast-paced environment. Perform other duties as assigned

Position Considerations :

Working hours are typically from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, with up to 1 day of remote work allowed. Flexibility and collaboration within the team are key to Sunrise's dynamic structure. There are opportunities to take on special projects and contribute to quality improvement, though these are optional. Supervision of one intern may be required, with a stipend of up to $1,000 available for this responsibility after one. Job duties may vary during the initial months as licensure is acquired, due to licensing restrictions. Sunrise Homeless Navigation Center values diversity and inclusion and is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. As an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer Sunrise does not discriminate on the basis of color, race, national origin, religion, gender identity or expression, age, veteran status, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, or disability (in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act) with respect to employment opportunity. Sunrise strongly encourages applications from candidates of all backgrounds and experiences who share our passion for empowering people experiencing homelessness and making a positive impact on our community.

Job Type:

Full-time Pay:

From $25.00 per hour

Benefits:

Dental insurance Employee assistance program Health insurance Paid time off Professional development assistance Vision insurance

Work Location:

Hybrid remote in Austin, TX 78745