Department: Benefits Hub / Student Support Center / EDT Division
Reports To: Benefits Hub Program Manager
Position Type: Student Employment
Compensation: Starting $17.28/hour, Experienced $18.78/hour
Location: Highline College Campus
Position Summary
This role is an excellent opportunity to develop professional skills in social services, college and community resource navigation, public speaking, and data tracking while making a meaningful impact on your fellow students’ success.
The Peer Navigator (Tier 1) will serve as the first point of contact for students seeking support with public benefits, basic needs resources, and financial wellness. As a trained peer navigator, you will provide initial screenings, share information about available resources, and assist students with completing basic applications. For students requiring more in-depth or ongoing case management, you will make referrals to a Support Coach (Tier 2).
Appointments will be conducted one-on-one both in person and virtually.
Key Responsibilities
- Complete public benefits screening appointments with students (in-person and/or virtual).
- Provide information and guidance on available resources, such as SNAP, housing assistance, and other basic needs programs.
- Support students in completing college resource applications.
- Accurately track appointments, referrals, and outcomes in Apricot, the Benefits Hub’s secure data management system.
- Refer students with more complex needs to Tier 2 campus partners, including CLCs, Women’s Programs/WorkFirst Programs, WES, SHoRe, and the Community Pantry Program Manager.
- Maintain up-to-date knowledge of public benefits and resources through ongoing training
- Participate in regular team meetings, trainings, and check-ins with supervisor and team.
- Occasional classroom visits and/or tabling at campus events
Qualifications
Required:
- Must be a current Highline College student. Work study preferred
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to engage students from diverse backgrounds.
- Comfort with having sensitive conversations and connecting students to resources.
- Basic computer skills, including the ability to learn and navigate data systems like Apricot, CTC Link, and web resource portals.
Training & Support
- All Peer Navigators will participate in a comprehensive onboarding and training program led by the United Way of King County (UWKC) and Highline College.
- Ongoing support and supervision will be provided by the Benefits Hub Program Manager.
- Training includes resource navigation, cultural humility, trauma-informed practices, and proper use of the Apricot database.
Work Schedule
- Up to 19 hours weekly.
- Flexible scheduling available to accommodate academic commitments.
- Must be available to attend mandatory trainings and staff meetings.
Benefits of the Role
- Gain hands-on experience in student support and resource navigation
- Build skills in communication, data tracking, and problem-solving.
- Make a real difference by helping your peers access the resources they need to thrive.
- Training provided, no prior experience with public benefits is required.
How to Apply
Please submit your resume or a brief description of your work experience and/or goals. to benefitshub@highline.edu
