Digital Navigator Associate

Description

Title:                          Digital Navigator Associate

Unit:                           Information Technology & Systems

Reports to:                 Digital Equity Program Manager

Status:                        Full-Time

Salary Range:            $22.00 per hour (approximately $40,040 annually)

Location:                    Long Island City

Days/Hours:               35 Hours Per Week, Monday - Friday

Organization Overview:

The Fortune Society, Inc. (Fortune) has been working for over 57 years in service to our mission: to support successful reentry from incarceration and promote alternatives to incarceration, thus strengthening the fabric of our communities. The organization has evolved into one of the nation’s preeminent reentry and justice-informed service organizations, providing formerly incarcerated people with the skills and wrap-around services needed to break the cycle of crime and incarceration and to build productive lives in their communities.

Fortune has grown steadily over the years to an agency with close to $90 million in annual budget, with just under 600 staff. We anticipate that we will keep growing, both in size and depth of service. Fortune has a dual mission: both advocacy and service. The advocacy portion of our mission focuses on building a more just criminal legal system and reducing the barriers to reentry into society. The service side of Fortune has evolved to encompass a broad range of programs that started with employment and education and now includes a robust array of services, among them: alternatives to incarceration, supervised release, court advocacy, discharge planning within correctional facilities, licensed substance use and mental health treatment, a housing continuum ranging from emergency and transitional through permanent congregate and scattered site housing, assistance in obtaining benefits, a care management unit, HIV services, a food and nutrition program, and an arts program. Each service we provide is informed by the needs of the population we serve. Fortune currently serves approximately 14,000 people a year.. Our program models are recognized, both nationally and internationally, for their quality and innovation. We have locations in Brooklyn, The Bronx, Manhattan and Queens.

Position Summary:

Under the supervision of the Digital Equity Program Manager, the Digital Navigator Associate supports the delivery and operation of Fortune’s Digital Equity Program. This position bridges technical instruction and administrative support to help participants develop essential digital skills, access devices and connectivity resources, and receive ongoing technical assistance.

The Digital Navigator Associate serves as a junior member of the Digital Equity team, working closely with other Digital Navigators to facilitate trainings, support classroom operations, and assist with program coordination and data management. This role combines participant-facing support with behind-the-scenes administrative functions to ensure the smooth delivery of digital literacy and technology training services.

Core Competencies:

• Mission and Fit: Embodies Fortune’s mission and values and will be an effective member of the team in furthering both. The candidate should exhibit compassion and understanding for our participants (wherever they are in their re-entry process) and embrace Fortune’s core value that none of us should be measured against the worst things we have done.

• Technical Proficiency: Demonstrates comfort with a wide range of technology, problem-solving skills, and the ability to translate complex concepts into accessible terms for learners with diverse skill levels. 

• Teamwork and Communication: Collaborates effectively with colleagues and participants, maintains a positive attitude, and communicates clearly in person and in writing. 

• Organization and Adaptability: Manages multiple tasks and priorities efficiently while adapting to the dynamic needs of the Digital Equity Program. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Facilitate and assist with facilitating digital literacy workshops and certification classes alongside other Digital Navigators.
• Provide hands-on technical support and instruction to participants through the IT Support Desk and other one-on-one assistance.
• Contribute to the development and revision of training curricula, guides, and promotional materials.
• Prepare and maintain training spaces and equipment, ensuring hardware, software, and connectivity are functioning properly.
• Help coordinate special projects or events related to digital inclusion, device distribution, or community training and support.
• Support program coordination, including scheduling trainings, tracking attendance, and preparing materials and reports.
• Maintain accurate records of participant progress and program activities in the case management database system.
• Assist in outreach efforts to raise awareness of digital equity services among participants, other departments, and community partners.
• Assist with the evaluation and assessment of program effectiveness and make recommendations for improvements
• Conduct research and stay current on digital equity best practices, emerging technologies, and technology-related opportunities relevant to Fortune’s participant population.
• Mentor and support Digital Equity Interns as assigned.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s or Associate degree preferred; in computer science, information technology, or a related field, or equivalent experience
• Proficiency in Microsoft Windows 11
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint)
• Familiarity with Smartphone platforms and technology
• At least 1 year of experience providing technical support, training assistance, or digital literacy instruction
• Ability to communicate technical concepts in clear, non-technical language.
• Strong organizational and time management skills with attention to detail.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively with diverse populations.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Passion for advancing digital inclusion and supporting justice-impacted individuals.
• We seek talented, dedicated individuals from all walks of life who possess a strong commitment to this mission.  Relevant personal experience is a plus.

Travel Requirements: May require some travel to our Harlem and Bronx locations.

Physical Demands:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The responsibilities and requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skills, minimum education, training, licensing, experience and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.

The Fortune Society is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will be afforded equal employment opportunities without discrimination because of conviction history, race, religion/creed, color, national origin, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, military status, predisposing genetic characteristics, victim of domestic violence status or marital status.

Salary : $90 - $40,040