Primary Purpose of Position: The Housing Navigator will assist voucher holders currently searching for housing by helping clients more efficiently obtain permanent housing as quickly as possible and make referrals to necessary stabilization services. The Housing Navigator will work closely with landlords, property managers, realtors, public housing authorities, and permanent & supportive housing providers and conduct program briefings to all new owners & landlords. The Housing Navigator will work with clients referred to them by the HCV team to develop an individualized housing plan to address any barriers to obtaining and maintaining permanent housing. 

Core Functions:

Housing Navigator

· Conduct initial housing assessments for voucher holders who are searching to determine an appropriate level of housing intervention.

· Conduct research, outreach, education and public relations to build a pool of landlords and property management companies willing to rent to voucher holders.

· Help voucher holders identify potential neighborhoods where they wish to live, conduct housing searches, and communicate with potential landlords with the voucher holder.

· Establish and maintain relationships with landlords, property management companies, realtors, public housing authorities, and permanent/supportive housing providers.

· Work directly with program and administrative staff to ensure that the lease process is completed, and documents are signed.

· Work collaboratively with shelter case managers and other service providers to assist voucher holders as needed during their move into permanent housing. Such assistance may include accessing rental assistance funds, moving costs, donated furnishings, and other basic household items.

· Maintain and update data tracking systems and prepare monthly outcome and service activity reports.

· Provide tenant education including tenant rights and responsibilities, housing discrimination and communication with landlords

· Provide program briefing for all new landlords and maintain a regular and open line of communication with landlords to assess the landlords' satisfaction with the programs and address any questions or concerns that landlords may have.

· Work closely with Inspection Services regarding unit abatements, tenant no shows for scheduled inspections and non-compliance with inspection requirements.

· Respond to complaints from landlords and clients related to housing conditions and provide mediation resources.

  The starting hourly rate for this position is $22.1716 (annual $46,117), plus a comprehensive benefits package, including, but not limited to, health, dental and vision, retirement options with employer match, life insurance, short and long-term disability, employee assistance, generous earned time and all major federal holidays. Employment is eligible for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

Education and Experience: Education and two years of housing administration or a combination of six years of experience, training and independent study preferred.

Skills and Knowledge:

· Knowledge and experience in interpreting governmental regulations and contract compliance specific to the Housing Choice Voucher program

· Ability to provide effective coaching and feedback to others 

· Ability to build productive relationships with team members and outside partners

· Strong conflict resolution skills

· Strong computer and analytical skills

· Ability to work independently

· Accuracy and attention to detail

· Excellent organizational skills

· Ability to prioritize multiple and varied tasks

· Ability to proofread, edit, and make grammatical corrections

 **Position will remain open until a suitable candidate is found**