Crisis Navigator – Transition Center

Position Purpose

Austin Street Center’s Transition Center Pilot Program is a crisis diversion initiative designed to provide a compassionate, service-rich alternative to jail or emergency detention for higher-acuity individuals experiencing homelessness. Through partnerships with DART’s Multi-Disciplinary Response Team (MDRT) and NTBHA’s Mobile Crisis Outreach Team (MCOT), individuals referred to this program are stabilized and connected to housing and support services within 10 days of entry.

As a Crisis Navigator, you will be a key contact for clients in the Transition Center, providing intensive case management, facilitating rapid service connections, and ensuring a smooth exit into housing or appropriate shelter. You will work in collaboration with internal team members and external partners to break the cycle of homelessness and incarceration for Dallas’ most vulnerable neighbors.

We are seeking a highly motivated professional with strong problem-solving skills, a passion for ending homelessness, and the ability to engage individuals in acute crisis with empathy, clarity, and consistency. If you’re a kind, smart, and driven person who wants to make a difference, this role is for you.

Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive housing-focused assessments, documenting history of homelessness and vulnerabilities using evidence-based tools.
• Develop and implement individualized service plans to expedite client exits from program within 10 days.
• Coordinate with medical, behavioral health, and diversion teams to address immediate client needs and reduce systemic barriers.
• Maintain accurate, timely case documentation in the Homeless Management Information System (HMIS), ensuring data quality and compliance.
• Collaborate with partner agencies (DART MDRT, NTBHA MCOT) and internal teams to ensure seamless client care transitions.
• Provide proactive case management and engagement to minimize client absconding.
• Support clients in developing Safe Exit Plans for stable placements post-program.

Required Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities

• Bachelor’s degree in human services required.
• Prior experience in crisis intervention, housing-focused case management, and working with individuals experiencing homelessness and mental health challenges highly desired.
• Master’s degree in social work, Sociology, or Psychology highly desired.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Cultural humility and ability to work with diverse populations.
• Proficiency in digital tools, cloud-based software, and Microsoft Office applications.
• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds and work in dynamic environments, including outdoors and high-traffic settings.
• Ability to attain and maintain Qualified Mental Health Provider (QMHP) training

Strong applications will include a cover letter which details how the applicant demonstrates the character qualities required for excellent performance in this position.

Please ensure to include in the application your most recent three professional positions and at least three references.