Student Basic Needs Navigator & Resource Advocate

UNAVAILABLE; Portland (OR); Hybrid; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

OHSU seeks a Basic Needs Navigator to support students facing financial hardship. You will provide individualized guidance, assess needs, and coordinate referrals to campus and community resources. This role partners with Student CARE, Food Resource Centers, and Student Affairs to strengthen basic needs services across campus.

The position emphasizes trauma-informed, culturally responsive support, data tracking, and program development. Hybrid work with on-site presence required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Public Health, Social Work, Psychology, Higher Education or related field and two years of experience leading projects
• Associate’s degree and three years of experience leading projects
• Equivalent combination of education, training, and experience
• At least three years of administrative support experience supporting a team of 10+
• Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging
• Experience providing direct service and case management to underserved populations
• Experience helping navigate public benefits and coordinating referrals
• Trauma-informed, culturally responsive and student-centered approaches
• Managing complex programs, coordinating partnerships and evaluating outcomes
• Using data to inform program decisions and assess service utilization
• Knowledge of social, economic, cultural factors influencing access to basic needs resources
• Creates an inclusive and welcoming environment
• Applies case management principles and documenting interactions
• Trauma-informed communication and student-centered practices
• Resourcefulness and initiative to identify solutions
• Ability to interpret policies and maintain boundaries
• Adaptability and proactive problem solving
• Adherence to OHSU policies and guidelines
• Food Handler’s Card may be obtained upon hire
• Ability to perform duties with or without accommodation

Responsibilities

• Provide individualized support to students experiencing financial hardship and basic needs challenges
• Meet with students to assess needs and develop support plans
• Assist students in applying for public benefits (e.g., SNAP, OHP, utilities)
• Provide warm handoffs and coordinated referrals to campus units and partners
• Guide diverse student populations, including rural and underserved groups
• Maintain records and identify trends to assess program utilization and effectiveness
• Support Food Resource Center operations and inventory management
• Coordinate emergency fund applications and documentation
• Participate in outreach, program development, and improvement efforts
• Perform other duties as assigned

Skills

Administrative support

Case management

Trauma-informed

Cultural competence

Data tracking

Partnership development

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Public Health, Social Work, Psychology, Higher Education or related field

Associate’s degree with 3 years leading projects

Job description

OHSU seeks a Basic Needs Navigator to support students facing financial hardship. You will provide individualized guidance, assess needs, and coordinate referrals to campus and community resources. This role partners with Student CARE, Food Resource Centers, and Student Affairs to strengthen basic needs services across campus.

The position emphasizes trauma-informed, culturally responsive support, data tracking, and program development. Hybrid work with on-site presence required.