About this opportunity
YWCA Greater Cleveland lists this Housing Navigator opportunity in cleveland, Ohio. Review the employer’s description below for duties, qualifications and application requirements.
Job description
Housing Navigator
About Norma Herr Women's Center
Norma Herr Women's Center serves over 250 women every day, offering safety, dignity, and a pathway forward for women experiencing homelessness and crisis. Many of the women we serve are living with mental illness, substance use disorders, trauma, or are survivors of violence and exploitation.
The Housing Navigator plays a critical role in the success of this work-helping women move from crisis to stability through ethical, timely, and client-centered housing placement.
The Role
The Housing Navigator works directly with guests to remove barriers to housing and guide them through realistic, attainable housing plans. This role requires strong judgment, integrity, consistency, and follow-through, as decisions made directly impact safety, housing outcomes, and trust.
This position is ideal for someone who understands housing systems, respects client autonomy, and can balance urgency with ethical practice.
What You'll Do
Develop individualized housing plans that are realistic, measurable, and aligned with each woman's needs and readiness
Navigate housing requirements, documentation, and eligibility across multiple systems and providers
Advocate for guests while maintaining ethical standards, boundaries, and program expectations
Coordinate with internal teams, community partners, landlords, and housing providers
Support women with mental health challenges, substance use disorders, and trauma histories using a trauma-informed approach
Assist guests with obtaining identification, income verification, and other required documents
Monitor progress weekly and document case notes and outcomes accurately and on time
Provide short-term crisis intervention and de-escalation when needed
Transport guests in agency vehicles or personal vehicle (as required) to appointments, housing viewings, and services
Participate in outreach, community meetings, and collaborative housing efforts
Reliability & Travel Expectations (Required)
This role requires consistent attendance, dependability, and flexibility. Housing timelines move quickly, and guests rely on follow-through. Approximately 30% travel within the community is required
Valid Ohio driver's license, auto insurance, and a reliable vehicle are required
Occasional evenings or Saturdays may be necessary to meet guest or program needs
Ability to work across multiple sites when needed
What We're Looking For At least 2 years of experience working with homeless populations, including individuals experiencing mental illness, substance use, or complex trauma
Working knowledge of housing systems, eligibility requirements, and community resources
Strong documentation, communication, and organizational skills
Ability to remain calm, ethical, and focused in high-stress situations
Commitment to trauma-informed, client-centered, and ethical practice
Comfort holding boundaries while offering compassion and respect
Preferred Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Social Work or related field
State licensure (LSW, LISW, LPC, LPCC)
Experience with chronically homeless populations
Familiarity with local housing programs and systems
Why This Role Matters
Housing Navigators are central to the YWCA's ability to manage Norma Herr Women's Center safely and effectively. Success in this role means women are housed faster, more safely, and with dignity, while systems are navigated ethically and responsibly.
If you are dependable, mission-driven, and ready to do meaningful work that requires both heart and accountability, we encourage you to apply.
The YWCA is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer committed to an inclusive and diverse workplace. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, age, pregnancy, genetic information, creed, marital status, or any other consideration prohibited by law or by contract.
Worksite address
cleveland, OH, 44101, US
Who can apply
Review the original listing for work authorization, qualifications and employer requirements.