The Jersey City Housing Authority (JCHA) is seeking part-time Digital Navigators (DNs) to promote awareness and use of the Federal Communication Commission’s Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), which provides eligible low-income households internet and device discounts. The DNs will provide information and individualized or small group assistance to community members who need affordable home internet service or affordable internet-capable devices. They may also document community member interest in introductory digital skills to become effective home internet users. Once trained, Digital Navigators will canvass and/or table at social service and community events that target ACP-eligible households held by 20+ organizations across Jersey City or hosted by JCHA throughout the year. Assistance will be provided primarily peer-to-peer, face-to-face. This part-time position allows for flexible hours, 15-25 hours per week, for 11 months. The role is grant-funded through April or May 2024.

All activities must support the Jersey City Housing Authority (JCHA) mission, strategic goals and ONE-JCHA values. Learn more at www.jerseycityha.org.

The Jersey City Housing Authority has a COVID-19 Vaccination Policy that requires all regular, part-time, and temporary employees to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 for the health and safety of its workplace and community. New hires must provide proof to JCHA Human Resources by their first day of employment that they are fully vaccinated. Individuals with a qualifying medical or religious reason may submit a request for exemption.

• Must be able to occasionally work evenings and weekends.
• Ability to embrace the challenge of learning and teaching basic technological concepts related to internet services, computer and device characteristics, and common online services and applications.
• Excellent self-organization, language capacity, and cultural competency.
• Excellent communication skills, including the ability to establish trust with clients of varied educational and cultural backgrounds.
• Ability to demonstrate positive attitude, excellent interpersonal skills, cultural sensitivity, and a sense of humor in working with diverse customers, coworkers, and community.
• Ability to creatively solve problems and negotiate and handle stressful situations in a positive manner.
• Ability to provide excellent customer service, establish appropriate boundaries with clients, and to demonstrate innovation and flexibility.
• Must be eligible to work in the U.S.
• Proof of vaccination on first day of employment or have authorized qualifying religious or medical exemption.

ALL APPLICANTS MUST COMPLETE THIS FORM (PLEASE USE THE LINK BELOW).

Digital Navigator Questionnaire (google.com)

Responsibilities

• Promote the Affordable Connectivity Program to eligible individuals throughout Jersey City at a range of community events, including canvassing or tabling at events, directly hosting outreach events, or door knocking.
• Discuss with each client their home internet access or need for home internet access, technology experiences and their devices.
• Assess clients’ access to and comfort with technology, connectivity needs, and internet use priorities.
• If necessary, advise clients about free or affordable home internet service options for which they may qualify, assist clients to apply for services they choose, and support their efforts to secure service.
• If necessary, advise clients about sources of affordable computers or other internet connected devices for which they may qualify, support their efforts to acquire appropriate devices, and offer guidance on where they can get help with repairs.
• Track all outreach activities and keep timely and accurate records; conduct follow up as necessary.
• Other tasks, as necessary.

Education, Experience, License

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Prior knowledge and experience with computer technology.
• 1) A valid NJ Driver’s License and access to a vehicle or 2) comfort and ability to travel via public transportation or other means is required. This role will require travel throughout Jersey City including to JCHA’s properties as follows:
  • Arlington Gardens, 315 Randolph Avenue, Jersey City, NJ 07304
  • Berry Gardens, 199 Ocean Avenue, Jersey City, NJ 07305
  • Booker T. Washington, 74 Fremont Street, Jersey City, NJ 07302
  • Curries Woods, 65-67 Ruby Brown Terrace, Jersey City, NJ 07305
  • Hudson Gardens, 27‐29 Palisade Avenue, Jersey City, NJ 07306
  • Holland Gardens, 241 16th Street, Jersey City, NJ 07310
  • Marion Gardens, 73 Dales Avenue, Jersey City, NJ 07306
  • Thomas J. Stewart, 88 Erie Street, Jersey City, NJ 07302
  • 254 Bergen Avenue, 254 Bergen Avenue, Jersey City, NJ 07304
• Applications from current JCHA residents will be given priority consideration.

Skills and Abilities

• Exceptional time management and multi-tasking skills.
• Ability to provide clear instructions and tutor individuals with patience and understanding.
• Strong interpersonal skills.
• Detail oriented and observant.
• Self-motivated and self-sufficient.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and meet deadlines.
• Fluent in English, both verbal and written
• Bi/multilingual applicants (Spanish, Arabic, Hindi, Tagalog, Chinese) preferred.

Salary and Benefits

• $20/hour
• Benefits include monthly cell phone and travel stipends.
• Customer service and client training experience.

JCHA proudly employs a diverse workforce and an Equal Employment Opportunity employer.