Social Work Navigator Intern

Posting number: 16849

Department: Commissioner Precinct 4

Job classification: Intern

Posting type: Open

Categories: Community Services, Social Services, Internship, Community and Social Services

Summary

Harris County Precinct 4 Social Services Department seeks a Social Work Navigator Intern. This position is an integral part of the Operations Division. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in bridging gaps between frontline services and policy opportunities while supporting resource-related projects that align with the agency's mission. This internship is designed to provide hands-on experience in case management, advocacy, and resource navigation, ensuring alignment with social work competencies and working both in the micro and macro space of social work. The role involves direct client interaction, research, project management, and travel with a client centered holistic approach. The intern will work under the supervision of a social worker and receive the required social work supervision, guidance and feedback to enhance their professional growth.

Job Duties and Responsibilities:

Case Management and Client Services:

• Provide case management services to individuals and families, addressing needs related to housing, healthcare, employment, and more.

• Conduct client assessments, develop service plans, and follow up to ensure positive outcomes.

• Communicate with clients in person, via phone, email, and remote platforms to provide guidance, support, and referrals.

• Use technology systems to manage client information, requests, intake, track progress, and document services.

Advocacy and Research:

• Conduct research to identify gaps between frontline service delivery and policy implementation.

• Develop recommendations to align organizational practices with best practices in social work and advocacy.

• Work on projects to address systemic barriers and promote equitable access to resources.

• Research and prepare materials for advocacy initiatives to address unmet community needs.

Resource Navigation and Workshop Development:

• Develop and facilitate social service workshops for clients and community members on topics such as housing stability, financial literacy, access to healthcare, and other social service-related subjects.

• Collaborate with agency staff to identify and update community resource guides.

• Coordinate with community partners to strengthen resource networks and enhance client access to services.

Fieldwork and Community Engagement:

• Travel to community centers, social work offices, outreach events, and other locations to meet clients, conduct assessments, and provide services.

• Represent the agency at community meetings, resource fairs, and advocacy events.

• Work in both the field with possible assignments across 1-2 of our 10 community centers and the main Tomball office for professional development.

Administrative Duties:

• Manage and resolve client service tickets, ensuring timely and effective responses.

• Maintain accurate and confidential client records in compliance with agency policies and social work ethical standards.

• Participate in team meetings, supervision sessions, and professional development opportunities.

Harris County is an Equal Opportunity Employer
https://hrrm.harriscountytx.gov/Pages/EqualEmploymentOpportunityPlan.aspx
 If you need special services or accommodations, please call (713) 274-5445 or email ADACoordinator@bmd.hctx.net.
This position is subject to a criminal history check. Only relevant convictions will be considered and, even when considered, may not automatically disqualify the candidate.

Examples of duties

Education:

• Currently enrolled in a U.S. accredited program in Social Work from an accredited university.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Ability to demonstrate empathy, servants’ heart, and patience

• Exceptional listening and problem-solving skills.

• Exceptional conflict resolution skills

• Strong organizational skills, and attention to detail.

• Ability to manage compet