Overview

Are you a mission-driven relationship-builder who thrives in fast-paced environments and wants to directly impact families in need? John Boner Neighborhood Centers is seeking a compassionate, energetic, and highly motivated Family Navigator to join our team at Washington Irving Elementary School , a vibrant campus located on Market Street. In this role, you’ll be the bridge connecting students, caregivers, and vital community resources—removing barriers, supporting families through crises, and championing access to opportunities. While not required, fluency in Spanish is strongly preferred due to the high population of Spanish-speaking families at the school.

A Day in the Life

As a Family Navigator, you’ll be embedded in the heart of the school—working shoulder-to-shoulder with school administrators, teachers, and community partners. Your days will be full of purpose: responding to resource requests submitted through the school’s “ticket” system, connecting directly with families in crisis, and developing attendance intervention plans that help students get back into the classroom. You’ll start most days around 8:00 AM and wrap up by 4:00 PM, giving you time for thoughtful documentation, case management, and collaboration. No two days are alike—some may involve conducting home visits, others planning for food pantry distribution or preparing for evening family engagement events. Throughout it all, you’ll be a steady presence for families who are navigating challenges like housing instability, food insecurity, and chronic absenteeism.

You Would Thrive in This Position If...

• You’re energized by independent, community-based work and can confidently take initiative without waiting for every detail.
• You’re calm in chaos and skilled at problem-solving when there’s little direction.
• You have a deep sense of diplomacy , know how to build trust quickly, and communicate with clarity across diverse audiences.
• You have experience working in or with schools and understand the rhythm, unpredictability, and relational dynamics of that setting.
• You naturally build strong relationships —with families, school administrators, and your team alike—and use those connections to move solutions forward.
• You’re highly organized, know how to manage priorities , and can juggle multiple needs without losing sight of what matters.
• You’re collaborative and eager to contribute to a broader team , while also thriving in a role that requires personal accountability and autonomy.
• You believe in showing up consistently , listening deeply, and finding creative ways to help families thrive.
• You bring cultural humility to your work , and if you speak Spanish—bonus! That skill will help you connect even more meaningfully with the Washington Irving community.

This position is full-time, year-round, and reports directly to both John Boner Neighborhood Centers leadership and Washington Irving school administration. It includes structured onboarding, peer mentorship, and ongoing support. You’ll never be alone—our Family Services team works collaboratively across schools, and you’ll be part of an inspiring, impact-driven mission to break down barriers for families and children across the city.