Navigator

Navigator Job Description The Navigator at Better Way of Miami's Navigation Center will provide person-centered, trauma-informed case management services to individuals experiencing homelessness. The role involves assessing client needs, creating and implementing individualized service plans, and providing ongoing support and resources to help clients stabilize, achieve their goals, and improve their overall well-being. The Navigator will work within a low-barrier environment that prioritizes accessibility and respects clients' autonomy, recognizing that substance use and mental health issues are part of a larger system of needs that can be addressed through compassionate support.

Education Requirements :

Bachelor's degree in Social Work, Psychology, Sociology, or a related field preferred. Relevant work experience may substitute for educational requirements.

Experience Requirements :

Minimum of 1-2 years of experience in case management, social services, or related fields. Experience working with individuals experiencing homelessness, substance use issues, or mental health challenges is highly preferred.

Licensure/Certification:

Must have a valid driver's license and good driving record.

Skills/Abilities:

Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to build trusting relationships with clients in a non-judgmental, compassionate manner. Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written. Ability to work in a fast-paced, sometimes high-stress environment, managing multiple cases at once. Knowledge of community resources, social services, and local support networks. Ability to maintain confidentiality and adhere to professional ethical standards. Crisis intervention skills and experience handling challenging or high-risk situations with care. Commitment to social justice, equity, and inclusivity, with sensitivity to the diverse needs of the homeless population. Ability to sit or stand for extended periods, occasionally lifting and carrying items such as files and materials. Ability to manage and de-escalate conflict. Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, or holidays, as needed, depending on the center's needs. Supervision Provided to

Position:

Supervision is provided by the Program Director.

Performance/Proficiency Standards:

Performance standards are integrated within the position responsibilities. The principle functions of the position identified shall not be considered as a complete description of all the work requirements and expectations that may be inherent in the position.

Description of Duties:

• Conduct thorough intake assessments with new clients, identifying immediate needs, risks, and barriers to housing stability.
• Maintain a caseload of about 25-30 clients following up with them on a weekly basis and building rapport.
• Assess physical health, mental health, substance use, and social support systems.
• Develop individualized case plans in collaboration with clients, focusing on immediate and long-term goals, including housing, health care, family reunification, employment, and wellness.
• Provide ongoing, individualized case management to clients, offering emotional support, guidance, and advocacy.
• Monitor and evaluate client progress toward goals, adjusting service plans as needed.
• Facilitate access to necessary resources, including but not limited to health care, mental health services, substance use treatment, legal aid, food, and financial assistance.
• Ensure clients are educated on overdose prevention services and implement strategies with clients who are actively using substances, emphasizing safety and reducing risks associated with substance use.
• Encourage autonomy and support clients in making informed decisions about their mental health and substance use, without judgment or punitive action.
• Respond to emergency situations and crises in a calm, non-judgmental, and trauma-informed manner.
• Collaborate with medical professionals, mental health specialists, peer organizations, and community resources to provide immediate assistance and follow-up care.
• Maintain accurate, up-to-date client records in accordance with policies and confidentiality regulations.
• Complete progress notes, case plans, comprehensive needs assessments, and any other required documentation in a timely manner.
• Track and monitor client outcomes, including housing stability, health, and wellness, and report on service utilization.
• Advocate for clients within the center and with external organizations, including housing authorities, social services, and legal aid.
• Facilitate referrals to partner agencies and coordinate with community service providers to ensure continuity of care.
• Assist with moving clients into stable housing, treatment, or other positive destinations as needed.
• Coordinate transportation and/or drive clients in company vehicle to scheduled medical/psychiatric appointments, housing intakes, social security office, and other essential services.
• Educate clients about their rights and available community resources.
• Work closely with multidisciplinary teams to ensure clients are receiving holistic support.
• Participate in regular team meetings and case reviews to discuss client progress and challenges.
• Submit incident reports in a timely manner.
• Provide input on the development and implementation of policies and procedures related to client care.
• Participate in ongoing training, workshops, and conferences related to homelessness, mental health, substance use, and trauma-informed care.
• Contribute to fostering a learning environment and share relevant knowledge with colleagues.
• Other duties as assigned.

All employees of Better Way of Miami are given a job description consistent with the job responsibilities they will assume while employed as per 65D-30 F.S. All employees will be required to sign a job description which will remain in the employee's personnel file. All employees are given a copy of their job description as a reference to their responsibilities while employed. All employees of Better Way of Miami, Inc. are assessed and recognized on how effectively they contribute to the excellence of our Agency. The Performance Recognition and Development Program is designed to: ensure that everyone is focusing on the areas which support the mission of the Agency and goals of the individual departments; encourage active participation in the planning and implementing the goals in the employee's individual personal and professional development; and compensate individuals based on their job performance and contribution to the organization. Better Way of Miami, Inc. complies with state and federal nondiscrimination laws and policies that prohibit discrimination based on age, color, disability, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or transgender status. It is unlawful to retaliate against individuals or groups on the basis on their participation in a compliant of discrimination or on the basis of their opposition to discriminatory practices.

Pay:

$50,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Dental insurance Employee assistance program Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Retirement plan

Work Location:

In person