Job Description
Mission Statement
The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.
The Case Manager for the SAFE Navigation and Storage Center delivers housing-focused case management to individuals experiencing homelessness, with the goal of securing and sustaining permanent housing. Core responsibilities include conducting assessments, developing individualized housing plans, and connecting participants to benefits, housing resources, and supportive services using a housing-first, trauma-informed approach.
Reporting to program leadership, this role oversees the Operations Supervisor and ensures coordinated service delivery, compliance with contract requirements, and accurate documentation and data tracking. In partnership with landlords and community providers, the Case Manager facilitates housing placements, reduces barriers, and supports long-term stability.
Performance is measured by achievement of key outcomes, including housing placements, increased service engagement, and sustained housing retention (e.g., 90-day and 12-month benchmarks).
Essential Functions
Case Management & Client Services
- Provide comprehensive, housing-focused case management using trauma-informed, housing-first, and harm-reduction approaches.
- Conduct client intake, assessments (including CES), and develop individualized service and housing plans with measurable goals.
- Maintain ongoing engagement with participants, including regular meetings, progress monitoring, and follow-up services.
- Support clients in achieving self-sufficiency through life skills development, income stabilization, and access to benefits and supportive services.
- Provide crisis intervention, conflict mediation, and behavioral support in a fair, firm, and respectful manner.
Housing Navigation & Placement
- Assist participants in securing permanent housing through housing search, unit viewings, and application support.
- Build and maintain relationships with landlords, housing providers, and community partners to expand housing opportunities.
- Support clients in obtaining required documentation (e.g., identification, income verification) and accessing move-in resources.
- Prepare clients for tenancy, including lease education, move-in coordination, and transition planning.
- Support successful program exits to permanent housing and provide follow-up case management to promote housing retention.
Documentation, Data & Compliance
- Maintain accurate, timely, and complete documentation in HMIS and program files, including case notes, assessments, and service records.
- Ensure compliance with all contract requirements, including data entry, reporting timelines, and confidentiality standards.
- Track participant progress, housing outcomes, and service utilization; compile and submit required reports for internal and external stakeholders.
- Participate in file audits, quality assurance activities, and monitoring processes.
Program Oversight & Coordination
- Provide oversight to the Operations Supervisor to ensure alignment between daily operations and housing-focused service delivery.
- Monitor program activities to ensure compliance with policies, safety standards, and service expectations.
- Coordinate with vendors, service providers, and internal staff to ensure continuity of services across storage, navigation, and hygiene programs.
Collaboration & Community Engagement
- Collaborate with mental health providers, social service agencies, and community partners to coordinate care and support client stability.
- Participate in case conferencing, interagency meetings, and coordinated entry system activities.
- Develop and maintain a network of community resources and referral partnerships.
Safety, Ethics & Professional Standards
- Uphold professional ethics, confidentiality, and participant rights at all times.
- Identify and report safety concerns, incidents, and operational risks in a timely manner.
- Foster a respectful, supportive, and client-centered program environment that promotes dignity and self-worth.
Administrative & Other Duties
- Maintain organized client files, service logs, and program records.
- Attend required meetings, trainings, and professional development activities.
- Perform additional duties as assigned to support program operations and contract compliance.
Working Conditions
Ability to walk, stand, bend squat climb, kneel and twist on an intermittent or sometimes continuous basis. Ability to be able to lift up to 50lbs. Ability to grasp, push, pull objects such as file cabinet drawers and reach overhead. Ability to operate computer, fax and telephone.
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Social Work or a related field required; minimum one (1) year of experience working with individuals experiencing homelessness or other vulnerable populations.
- Knowledge of homeless services systems, community resources, and best practices for serving vulnerable populations.
- Demonstrated commitment to trauma-informed care, housing-first principles, and client-centered service delivery.
- Ability to support and uphold the mission of The Salvation Army.
- Valid California driver’s license with an acceptable driving record.
- CPR and First Aid certification required within 3 months upon hire and maintained thereafter.
Skills, Knowledge & Abilities
- Knowledge of Homeless Management Information System (HMIS) or similar database systems preferred.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and general computer skills; ability to maintain accurate data entry and documentation.
- Strong interpersonal and active listening skills, with the ability to effectively engage individuals experiencing homelessness and support goal achievement.
- Excellent organizational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and maintain attention to detail.
- Effective verbal and written communication skills, including professional phone and email etiquette.
- Ability to build and maintain respectful, professional relationships with participants, staff, and community partners.
- Ability to communicate effectively in English; bilingual English/Spanish preferred.