Team Lead, Engagement Center & Navigation

Job Overview

We are seeking a dynamic and dedicated Team Lead for our Engagement Center & Housing Navigation team. In this pivotal role, you will Provide first-level supervision and coordination of work for the Engagement Center and Housing Navigation teams within the Engagement & Stabilization Department. Oversees Engagement Center operational workflows to ensure clients and visitors navigate seamlessly through the center. Works with community partners developing strategic solutions to overcome barriers to housing in an effort to move clients quickly and efficiently off the streets within the community’s 90-day benchmark.

• Provide direct housing pre-navigation/navigation support for a reduced caseload while assisting Engagement Center and Housing Navigation teams in delivering client services.
• Model and enforce program standards, policies, and procedures; ensure accountability to program goals and SEARCH’s core values.
• Oversee Engagement Center operations, including client/visitor flow, security coordination, policy enforcement, staffing coverage, and facility-related needs.
• Maintain service quality through coaching, shadowing, and feedback across all service phases (enrollment, referrals, documentation, discharge, outcomes).
• Partner with Outreach and system stakeholders to locate and engage clients, secure documentation, and remove barriers to access, including providing transportation as needed.
• Support clients in overcoming housing barriers (t, documentation, applications, inspections) and connecting to housing opportunities and services.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with community partners (housing providers, healthcare, law enforcement, etc.) to advance clients toward housing quickly and efficiently.
• Connect clients to benefits and services (e.g., SSI/SSDI, SNAP, Gold Card) in coordination with community providers.
• Lead team meetings focused on performance outcomes (KPIs), compliance, case staffing, and team development.
• Provide regular supervision to staff, including performance management, evaluations, onboarding, and ongoing development.
• Ensure accurate and timely data entry and reporting in HMIS; support completion of all required program reports.
• Participate in required meetings, trainings, and system coordination efforts.
• Support the Director with program operations, performance monitoring, reporting, and other operational needs.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Strong leadership and supervisory skills, with the ability to coach and develop frontline staff
• Excellent case management knowledge, including service planning, documentation, and barrier resolution
• Experience applying evidence-based practices such as Motivational Interviewing and client-centered approaches
• Knowledge of homelessness response systems, housing navigation, and barrier reduction strategies
• Ability to build and maintain effective partnerships with community providers and system stakeholders
• Strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills in complex client situations
• Effective communication skills, including facilitating team meetings and case conferences
• Proficiency with HMIS or similar data systems, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and timely reporting
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, high-demand environment
• Commitment to cultural competence, equity, and providing trauma-informed care
• Ability to work in both office and field-based settings, including transporting clients as needed

• Bachelor’s degree in Social Work or a related field required; OR equivalent experience preferred
• 2+ years of progressive direct service experience in social services or a related setting required
• Prior supervisory or team lead experience helpful
• Experience working with individuals experiencing homelessness, including those with serious mental illness and/or co-occurring substance use disorders, required
• Applied knowledge of evidence-based practices such as Motivational Interviewing, Transtheoretical Model, cultural competence, and client-centered approaches preferred
• Strong knowledge of case management practices and service delivery
• Valid Texas driver’s license with a safe driving record for the past 3 years required