Open Doors Homeless Coalition - Housing Navigator

ODHC is seeking applicants for the position of Housing Navigator to provide the organization's program participants with trauma-informed housing stability services. The Housing Navigator will follow eligible individuals and families from initial assessment to housing placement, utilizing evidence-based practices and adhering to a variety of different program guidelines within the organization's continuum of services. 

Essential duties and responsibilities:
·        Assist eligible participants in locating safe, decent, affordable housing in the community, to include all counties in the geography (Hancock, Harrison, Jackson, George, Stone, and Pearl River Counties)
·        Perform Habitability inspections as required by state and federal regulations
·        Perform Visual Lead Inspections as required by the state and federal regulations
·        Ensure participant financial eligibility for assistance
·        Calculate Tenant Portion of Rent using state and federal regulations
·        Promote the housing programs in the community with a focus on recruiting landlords to participate in the program
·        Develop positive relationships with landlords in the community and stay knowledgeable of market conditions, rental costs, rent reasonableness, and community unit vacancies
·        Assist participants in using "MSHousingSearch.org" Housing Locator
·        Assist participants in filling out rental applications and other paperwork as needed
·        Assist participants in understanding lease provisions
·        Advocate for participants in accessing safe, decent, affordable housing in the community
Secondary Functions:
·        Maintain files/records on participant services in compliance with HMIS and HIPAA and other funding requirements for auditing purposes
·        Perform other duties as assigned by the Program Manager
Minimum Qualifications - Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Required:
·        A minimum of a high school diploma, Bachelor’s degree preferred
·        Training in housing habitability inspections and visual lead inspections or the willingness and ability to obtain such training
·        A minimum of three years' experience in real estate, public housing, or other housing related field
·        Demonstrated experience working with landlords in the community
·        A combination of equivalent training, education, and experience that provides the required knowledge and abilities may be accepted
·        Ability to work with case managers and clients from diverse cultural, ethnic, and socio-economic backgrounds
·        Ability to communicate effectively, both written and orally
·        A high level of resiliency, professionalism, and understanding of professional/personal boundaries
·        U.S. Citizen or permanent residency, or proof of work eligibility is required
·        Valid Mississippi Driver's License and proof of insurance is required
·        Background Check

Interested applicants should send a resume and cover letter to the ATTN of Dr. Dena Wittmann at info@opendoorshc,org, with Housing Navigator Position listed clearly in the subject line. Thank you for your interest in joining our team!