PROGRAM NAVIGATOR

JOB TITLE:   Program Navigator            

RESPONSIBLE TO:   Program Manager – Logistics 

FLSA STATUS:  Non-Exempt       

This document is intended to describe the general duties required for this position.  It is not intended to serve as an exhaustive list of duties, skills and responsibilities.

 About the Affordable Housing Alliance:

Founded in 1991 to address the overwhelming need for affordable housing in Monmouth County, the Affordable Housing Alliance (AHA) has grown from a small $25,000 grant into a multi million dollar annual operation and powerhouse non-profit. In our decades of service, we've developed over 600 affordable housing units with a strong pipeline fueling future growth. Our passionate team of difference-makers guides residents through every step of the housing journey - from homelessness prevention and rental assistance, to homebuyer education and foreclosure counseling. 

At the Affordable Housing Alliance (AHA), we believe that safe, decent and affordable housing is a fundamental human right. Everyone deserves to feel secure, comfortable and supported in the place they call home. As a catalyst for change in our community, the AHA strives to uphold this right by providing comprehensive housing services and solutions for all who need it most.

Our Core Values

●        Integrity- We demonstrate honesty and unwavering ethical conduct in all of our actions. At the AHA, we build trust through transparency and hold ourselves accountable to the highest standards.

●        Hope - We meet each person where they are in their unique journey with genuine understanding. By offering tangible assistance, we nurture hope and empower individuals to build their path forward.

●        Adaptability- We embrace change as an opportunity to innovate and grow stronger. At the AHA, we respond dynamically to evolving community needs, turning challenges into possibilities for those we serve.

●        Community Service - We dedicate ourselves to uplifting others and improving lives through meaningful action. At the AHA, we create positive change by empowering individuals, fostering independence, and building a more vibrant community for all.

JOB SUMMARY:

The Program Navigator plays a vital role within the Affordable Housing Alliance by acting as the point of entry for clients to receive the agency’s various services. This involves describing the services that AHA provides, determining the community resources that may assist the client, screening applicants, connecting them to the appropriate service(s) based on their needs, providing them with the appropriate onboarding instructions & materials, and processing documentation in order for them to receive services.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS/DUTIES:

• Conduct an assessment of all client caller needs during initial contact with our agency.

• Provide resource information and referrals; distribute applications for Utility Assistance and CAP programs, and assist with completion as needed.

• Assess client eligibility for Utility and CAP programs by applying income guidelines for each respective program.

• Process client counseling packets and maintain online intake databases using platforms such as SurveyMonkey, EmpowOR, CounselorMax, and other systems required by grant-funded programs.

• Manage the switchboard by routing calls, announcing the name and nature of calls, and/or recording accurate messages when applicable.

• Participate in staff meetings and other meetings as assigned.

• Promote understanding and development of skills necessary to work with individuals experiencing housing crises, poverty, and inequity.

• Attend agency and community outreach events as assigned by the Program Manager – Logistics.

• Serve as an Outreach Ambassador and Coordinator by representing the agency, speaking about services, and providing resource materials.

• Send outreach instructions and event details to assigned staff.

• Perform any other duties as assigned by the Program Manager – Logistics, CPO, and/or CEO.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education & Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent required; associate’s or bachelor’s degree in Social Services, Human Services, or a related field preferred.

• Prior experience in client intake, case management, community outreach, or customer service strongly preferred.

• Minimum of 2 years experience with housing work

• Strong understanding of community resources and social service programs, particularly Utility Assistance and CAP.

• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and customer service skills.

• Ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritize effectively, and meet deadlines.
  Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and comfortable learning new systems (SurveyMonkey, EmpowOR, CounselorMax).
  Strong organizational skills with attention to detail and accuracy.

• Ability to maintain confidentiality and demonstrate sensitivity when working with diverse populations.

• Commitment to the mission of serving individuals and families experiencing housing crises, poverty, and inequity.

We Encourage Applicants Who:

• Have lived experience with homelessness or housing insecurity, with insight into both the barriers and opportunities that come from these circumstances.

• Demonstrate a passion for using personal experience to support others and advocate for meaningful change.

• Offer a firsthand understanding of systemic challenges connected to poverty and economic insecurity.

Community Outreach:

This position requires participation in community outreach events and organizational activities outside of regular business hours. Staff members are expected to attend assigned evening and weekend outreach events as part of their role responsibilities. These events may include but are not limited to community fairs, educational workshops, promotional activities, networking events, and public engagement initiatives. Participation in outreach events is considered an essential function of this position. Candidates should be prepared to work flexible hours including evenings and weekends as business outreach needs arise.

Expected annual base salary/hourly range: $23 per hour 

Employees are eligible for:

• Medical, dental, & vision insurance
• Participate in the Company’s 401(k) program with employer matching
• Health savings and flexible spending accounts
• Basic Life and AD&D insurance
• Employee Assistance Program
• Paid Holidays 
• Paid Time Off

Additional compensation: Base salary does not include other forms of compensation or benefits offered in connection with the advertised role.