Housing Court Navigator, Eviction Diversion Initiative

About the role

The Eviction Diversion Initiative (EDI) at the Center for Justice Innovation is seeking a Housing Court Navigator to provide direct services to tenants facing eviction or displacement. This role operates in Brooklyn, the Bronx, Queens, and Manhattan Housing Courts.

Responsibilities

• Conduct intakes and maintain a caseload of tenants with pending eviction matters
• Provide individualized, holistic support, including referrals to rental assistance, housing subsidies and vouchers, legal services, public benefits, mental health services, employment resources, and other community-based providers
• Aid tenants in navigating Housing Court processes, including reviewing petitions and stipulation agreements, helping complete and file court forms with the clerk’s office, and supporting compliance with court orders and agreements
• Serve as a point of contact for tenants, court staff, and partner organizations to help coordinate services and address barriers related to nonpayment of rent, repairs, or other eviction risks
• Build and maintain collaborative working relationships with on- and off-site partners, including the Office for Court Administration, New York City Housing Authority, New York City Human Resources Administration, Adult Protective Services, Housing Court Answers, legal services providers, and other community-based organizations
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of housing-related programs, public benefits, subsidies, and community resources relevant to tenant needs
• Represent EDI in court, as needed
• Document client interactions, services provided, referrals, and outcomes in centralized case management databases
• Support program data collection, tracking, and reporting to meet grant and program requirements
• Participate in trainings, meetings, and professional development related to Housing Court practice, benefits programs, and partner initiatives

Qualifications

• Associate's degree and two years of relevant experience, or a high school diploma and 2-4 years of relevant experience
• Experience providing direct services, case management, or navigation support in housing, social services, legal services, or related fields
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary and court-based settings
• Ability to manage a caseload, prioritize tasks, and work collaboratively with multiple partners and agencies
• Familiarity with New York City Housing Court, NYCHA, rental subsidies, and public benefits is a plus
• Experience with electronic case management systems and standard office software (e.g., Google Workspace, Salesforce, Microsoft Office) preferred
• Language other than English highly desirable (Spanish, preferred)
• Commitment to EDI’s mission and to serving tenants with professionalism and empathy