Housing Navigator/Case Manager (Santa Clara)

About the role

The Housing Navigator/Case Manager at Zócalo Health is responsible for helping members find and maintain stable housing. This role involves conducting housing assessments, developing individualized support plans, and managing caseloads.

Responsibilities

• Conduct housing assessment to identify preferences and barriers related to successful tenancy
• Work with members to develop individualized housing support plans based on housing assessments
• Search for and present housing options to members
• Build relationships with local landlords and property managers
• Aid in securing housing through application completion and documentation gathering
• Provide guidance, resources, and referrals as needed
• Offer education on Landlord/Tenant rights
• Support benefits advocacy, including assistance with obtaining identification and documentation for SSI eligibility, and support with SSI application process
• Secure rent subsidy resources (Section 8, state and local assistance programs)
• Source funding for one-time expenses (security deposits, moving costs, adaptive aids)
• Communicate and advocate with landlords on behalf of members
• Arrange for and support the details of the move
• Develop housing support crisis plans and establish housing retention procedures
• Conduct health & safety home visits, including unit habitability inspections
• Provide early intervention services to prevent housing issues
• Collaborate and provide linkage to community resources to prevent eviction when necessary
• Maintain detailed documentation of all member interactions and outcomes

Requirements

• Bilingual English/Spanish required
• 2+ years experience in housing navigation or case management
• Knowledge of local housing markets and housing assistance programs
• Familiarity with housing regulations and tenant rights
• Strong interpersonal and advocacy skills
• Experience working with vulnerable populations

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Social Work, Health Services, or related field preferred
• Experience with housing management information systems (HMIS)
• Knowledge of trauma-informed care practices
• Previous experience in healthcare or managed care settings

Skills

• Cultural competency
• Organizational skills
• Effective case management

Benefits & Perks

• Comprehensive benefits (medical/dental/vision)
• Generous home office stipend
• Competitive compensation
• Generous PTO policy including 6 paid holidays