Type:  Hourly, Non-exempt

Supervisor: Resident Services Coordinator

Pay Grade: $32.00/hour

Location: 402 Rindge Ave, Cambridge, MA

Job Purpose:

The Digital Navigator will work with Just A Start’s residents to address their most urgent needs related to access to low-cost internet programs, smartphone and computer use, navigating online platforms, and individualized and group digital skills building. The Digital Navigator will also troubleshoot connectivity and device issues while developing and implementing beginner-level digital skills workshops.  The Digital Navigator’s work is a key part of Just A Start’s efforts to address digital equity.  The Digital Navigator will work with Just A Start’s Resident Services Coordinators to identify residents who require technical support.  The Digital Navigator will participate in shaping service delivery and in evaluating success metrics.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Identify and assess individual residents’ digital needs based on their stated goals.  Agree on the goals of digital navigator services.
• Promptly respond to requests for assistance from residents.
• Assist residents in signing up with low-cost internet providers.
• Assist in troubleshooting connectivity issues in residents’ apartments when necessary.
• Connect residents to free/low-cost computers, hot spots, or related equipment.
• Assist residents in setting up a computer, tablet, or other devices for home use.
• Assist residents in setting up smartphone email, voicemail, and other apps.
• Coach residents as necessary to use their home internet services in order to meet their internet use priorities.  This may include in-person, phone, and online interactions, as well as referral to sources of additional digital literacy skills training.
• Hold “computer lab” hours weekly in the Community Room at Just a Start’s apartment building at 402 Rindge Avenue.
• Provide a 6-week beginner digital literacy workshop series each quarter.
• Keep up to date on digital resources available to residents.
• Track individual residents’ progress and types of requests, keep accurate and timely records in Salesforce, and report outcomes as required.
• Assist in evaluating and changing the digital navigation program on an ongoing basis.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Skilled in hardware troubleshooting and in supporting technology users.
• Skilled in technology and digital communication tools, including text, voice, email, and video conferencing.
• Excellent telephone, online, and in-person communication skills, including the ability to establish trust with residents of varied educational and cultural backgrounds.
• Ability and desire to teach basic technological concepts related to internet services, computers and devices, and common online services and applications.
• Is patient and client-centered, and uses a strengths-based approach to teaching.
• Ability to creatively solve problems, negotiate, and handle stressful situations in a positive manner.
• Ability to provide excellent customer service, establish appropriate boundaries with residents, and demonstrate innovation and flexibility
• Ability to work within a team and with other providers.
• Ability to learn how to track work in Salesforce.
• Bilingual in Spanish, Haitian Creole, Bengali, Amharic, Chinese, or Hindi preferred.

Hours and Employment Term:

This is a part-time role with an expected schedule of 15-20 hours per week with 2-3 days in the office. The specific schedule will be determined. This role is scheduled to conclude on December 31, 2026.

Physical Demands:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Must possess mobility to work in a standard office setting and to use standard office equipment, including a computer; vision to read printed materials and a computer screen; and hearing and speech to communicate in person and over the telephone. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 10 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.

Work Environment:

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. The noise level in the work environment is quiet to moderate.

About JUST A START:

Just A Start believes that access to stable housing and sustainable careers are the essential building blocks of equitable communities. For 58 years, we have focused on meeting the fundamental needs of individuals and families who have been systematically denied opportunities to realize their full potential. Our programs include affordable housing, education and job training and comprehensive support services, spanning Cambridge and beyond.

Just A Start is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our staff represents a wide range of ages, races, interests, and backgrounds coming together in pursuit of common goals. Together, we strive to provide an environment that values diversity and promotes an inclusive culture. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions or any other characteristic protected by law.

Applications require a cover letter and resume.