Job Description

Description :

Join our team at The Mustard Seed as a Housing Focused Shelter Navigator and embark on a fulfilling journey of making a significant impact in the lives of those most in need. In this critical role, you will be the beacon of hope and guidance for shelter users, particularly the most vulnerable and chronically displaced individuals, assisting them in navigating their path towards stable and sustainable housing. Under the direct supervision of the Housing Focused Shelter Navigator Team Lead and Shelter Manager, you will engage intimately with our community participants\xe2\x80\x94many of whom have faced considerable trauma and barriers to accessing essential services such as housing, food, and basic needs.

Your mission will be to provide compassionate, person-centered support, connecting these individuals with vital internal and external resources to facilitate their expedited and orderly transition from the shelter environment. This role not only demands a high degree of professionalism and respect but also the ability to perform under the challenging dynamics of crisis intervention, case management, and conflict resolution, ensuring dignity, kindness, and equity for all. As a Housing Focused Shelter Navigator, you will embody our core values, encouraging and assisting our community participants towards achieving their personal goals and securing a place they can call home.

Position Type: Full-Time, 1-year fixed-term contract with the opportunity to extend
Number of Positions Available: 4
Schedule: Monday to Friday, with shifts either from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM or 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Reporting to: Shelter Manager
Location: Positions are available at both the Strathcona and Central Shelters in Edmonton, AB

• Serve as the initial point of contact for participants, providing outstanding service that emphasizes dignity, kindness, and equality.
• Employ a person-centered approach to encourage participants to access resources and services that aid in reaching their personal goals.
• Assess and assist vulnerable, elderly, or handicapped guests in transitioning to more suitable accommodations promptly.
• Identify chronic shelter users for assessment and necessary supportive actions.
• Coordinate orderly move-outs with relevant agencies to ensure smooth transitions.
• Facilitate referrals and applications to both external agencies and internal programs as needed.
• Fulfill all criteria specified in the Housing Focused Shelter Navigators Grant.
• Assist in preparing administrative tasks for housing security, including income connection, identification, and needs assessment.
• Aid in the execution of housing procurement tasks such as searches, viewings, landlord engagement, and move-in processes.
• Act as a supportive, proactive team member, working effectively with volunteers and other visitors, while enforcing shelter rules and responding adeptly to crises.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS

• At least 1 year of experience working with marginalized populations.
• Ability to work both independently and under the guidance of the Housing Focused Shelter Navigator Team Lead, adapting to a fast-paced environment with moderate mental effort required for analyzing information and problem-solving.
• Essential job functions necessitate proficiency in word processing software, spreadsheets, email communications, HMIS database system, Microsoft Outlook, and PowerPoint presentations.
• Experience working within the culture of the inner city and/or with less fortunate communities.
• A demonstrated passion for being involved in ending homelessness in Alberta is essential.
• Ability to follow organizational protocols of front-line programs to completion.
• Experience in case management and advocacy is considered an asset.
• Capability to multitask and demonstrate strong organizational skills amidst shifting priorities.
• Previous work in a volunteer-based organization is valued.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, along with effective conflict resolution abilities.
• Experience in customer service is an asset.
• Must be a self-starter capable of working in a cross-functional team environment.
• A desire to serve within a Christian ministry context.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• The role involves moderate physical activities including walking, climbing, standing, sitting, as well as lifting and carrying items. Daily tasks will require active engagement in various settings both inside and outside the shelter environment.
• The nature of this position is often fast-paced, necessitating a moderate level of mental effort to effectively analyze information and problem-solve. The candidate must be adept at managing a variety of tasks and challenges with efficiency and composure.
• This role demands varied mental and emotional effort, as the Navigator will frequently encounter intense situations. The ability to provide conflict resolution, maintain professionalism, and offer direct support to clients at risk is crucial.
• Successful candidates will receive training in essential operational tools and safety protocols, including the use of a two-way radio communication system and MS Office-based computer applications. Familiarity with the HMIS database system, FDARP (client record management), FOIP, as well as certifications in First Aid, NVCI (Non-Violent Crisis Intervention), and SafeTALK are required to effectively perform in this role.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• An Employment Background Check is required for all positions at The Mustard Seed
• As The Mustard Seed is a Christian ministry, we require our employees to agree to respect and not detract from The Mustard Seed\xe2\x80\x99s Employment Values during their employment at The Mustard Seed.
• Must have legal authorization to work in Canada on a full-time basis for anyone other than current employer.
• Driver\xe2\x80\x99s Abstract, Vulnerable Sector Check, and Employment Security Check is required.
• Participate in all staff training (e.g. First Aid, SafeTALK, Nonviolence Crisis Intervention, Naloxone Training)

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

• The Mustard Seed offers a competitive compensation package including 100% employer paid extended health and dental benefits for staff and dependents and wellness days.
• All The Mustard Seed employees have access to the Employee and Family Assistance Program, which provides support for maintaining a healthy work-life balance, addressing mental health concerns, and focusing on personal development in various areas.

NOTE

• Your privacy is important to us. The information we collect is used solely for consideration for employment.
• We thank all candidates for their interest, however, only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted. The Mustard Seed reserves the right to amend job advertisements. No phone calls please.
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The Mustard Seed