Housing Navigator

Located within the traditional unceded territory of the syilx people Westbank First Nation is a progressive and prosperous self-governing First Nation. The Okanagan Valley truly has it all including a great climate stunning scenery world-class ski resorts golf courses wineries and beaches.

Westbank First Nation values diversity and we are committed to creating a healthy strong and vibrant community through programs and services that promote physical mental emotional and spiritual well-being and healing. Come join our team and become part of an innovative and rewarding place to work.

This position is open to WFN members and internal applicants only.

POSITION SUMMARY

Reporting to the Superintendent of Housing the Housing Navigator serves as a vital liaison between Westbank First Nation (WFN) individuals and families and the housing and wellness systems both on and off reserve. This role provides direct support in securing and maintaining safe stable and culturally appropriate housing while honoring syilx values and traditional ways of being. The Housing Navigator takes a holistic trauma-informed approach to advocacy and service embedding cultural support throughout the process. By leveraging both internal WFN programs and external community resources the Navigator helps clients address immediate needs and develop long-term housing plans. Through visionary thinking relationship-building and community engagement this position promotes housing as a foundation for health well-being and cultural connection.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE

• Bachelors degree in social work Community Development Human Services or a related field
• Minimum 5 years experience in housing navigation or related field
• Minimum of 2 years experience managing confidential situations and handling sensitive materials in a professional or social services setting
• Demonstrated experience navigating and de-escalating challenging interpersonal or crisis situations preferably within housing mental health or social work environments
• Demonstrated experience supporting individuals impacted by homelessness poverty trauma or systemic barriers such as racism ableism or discrimination
• Equivalent combination of education training and experience may be considered

REQUIREMENTS

• Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Search with results acceptable to WFN
• Valid Class 5 Drivers License and Acceptable Drivers Abstract
• Access to a reliable insured vehicle
• Ability to travel within community and outside of community as required
• Availability to occasionally work evenings weekends or on call hours
• Knowledge of local housing programs and resources
• Willingness to obtain further training and education related to the position
• Maintains a high level of confidentiality and uses discretion on all matters relating to the affairs of the Westbank First Nation

JOB DUTIES/RESPONSIBILTIES

• Develops and maintains strong relationships within WFN departments and services off reserve housing resources and providers and other relevant stakeholders
• Assists clients in understanding and accessing housing options programs and resources
• Provides culturally appropriate advocacy and support by assisting clients with applications tenancy agreements and documentation
• Supports access to emergency shelters and transitional housing
• Conducts assessments to identify housing needs and develop personalized housing plans
• Develops case management plans that incorporate wellness goals employment income and education
• Acts as a connector between clients and community-based services (health education social and income supports etc.)
• Collaborates with stakeholders to develop and facilitate housing workshops and educational sessions on responsibilities available resources and related initiatives
• Collaborates with local agencies and organizations to ensure a holistic approach to housing support.
• Maintains accurate records of client interactions progress and outcomes through report writing case notes and data collection
• Stays informed about current housing policies programs and funding opportunities affecting the WFN Community and housing supports
• Participates in community outreach events and activities to promote housing resources and support services
• Participates in program evaluation policy development and housing strategy planning
• Identifies gaps in services and proposing community-led housing initiatives
• Supports access to supports for mental health addiction trauma healing to support successful housing tenancy
• Provides ongoing follow up to support housing retention and crisis prevention
• Performs all duties and responsibilities in accordance with the Westbank First Nation policies standards and procedures an as assigned by the Superintendent of Housing

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES

• Excellent communication interpersonal and advocacy skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Proficiency in using technology for record-keeping and communication
• Well organized with strong written and verbal communication skills
• Customer service orientated building positive and professional relationships with tenants clients and staff
• Good judgment when problem-solving direct experience in managing difficult situations with clients
• Ability to maintain a non-judgment non-reactionary and non-defensive communication style during challenging discussions
• Ability to use discretion tact and diplomacy when addressing sensitive issues
• Experience establishing work plans with the ability to organize and adapt to changing workload priorities.
• Financial knowledge to assist with client planning e.g. budgeting
• Experience with a variety of computer software programs including Word Excel Outlook and Access
• Knowledge of WFN Community Services programs services and issues
• Demonstrates a high degree of confidentiality in interpersonal interaction
• Working knowledge of the history of colonization in Canada and its ongoing impact on modern issues affecting Indigenous Peoples
• Working knowledge in communicating with Indigenous Peoples demonstrating sensitivity and empathy and awareness of how language choices can influence and impact conversations.

The median salary for this position is $80947

To learn more about Westbank First Nation please visit our website at .

All applications must be submitted through our Employment Opportunities page. Ensure you attach your cover letter and resume. Incomplete or late submissions will not be accepted.

This opportunity will close at midnight on Sunday June 22 2025

While we recognize the value of diversity in the workplace and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds preference will be provided to qualified WFN Members & Indigenous applicants.