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Disability Program Navigator Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Career Navigator

Kalamazoo, MI ยท On-site

$20.25/hr

Our organization's values shape our culture and guide our interactions with program participants ... This role serves a diverse population, including individuals with disabilities, those experiencing ...

$18.50 - $24.25/hr

Assess families whose children are in the ABA program at intake and at specified intervals for ... disability, marital status, height, weight, veteran status, sexual orientation, pregnancy ...

Housing Resource Navigator

Owosso, MI ยท On-site

$17.44 - $18.60/hr

Maintain reliability, accuracy, and adherence to program requirements in all aspects of the role ... Auxiliary aides and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.

... programs serving those with a mental illness and/or an intellectual disability. The care navigator is responsible for assessment, referrals, linking and coordination of all services, the creation of ...

Foster Care Navigator

Ann Arbor, MI

$21 - $26.75/hr

POSITION DESCRIPTION Foster Care Navigator, AFPRR Program Program: Adoptive and Foster Parent ... Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the ...

Community Navigator - Full-time

Taylor, MI ยท On-site

$19.50 - $25/hr

Complete intake screening and referrals for long-term services and supports programs for older adults and individuals with disabilities. Assist clients with navigating application and enrollment for ...

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Disability Program Navigator information

See Michigan salary details

$9.6K

$54.8K

$70.2K

How much do disability program navigator jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for disability program navigator in Michigan is $54,841.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,200.00 and $57,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What kind of degree do you need to work with people with disabilities?

Disability Program Navigators typically need at least a high school diploma or equivalent, but many employers prefer a bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, rehabilitation counseling, or a related field. Relevant skills include strong communication, knowledge of disability resources, and sometimes certification in case management or related areas.

What are the 7 types of disability?

The seven recognized types of disability are physical disabilities, sensory disabilities (such as vision or hearing impairments), intellectual disabilities, mental health disabilities, developmental disabilities, chronic illnesses, and learning disabilities. As a Disability Program Navigator, understanding these categories helps in guiding individuals to appropriate resources and accommodations based on their specific needs.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a Disability Program Navigator?

As a Disability Program Navigator, your day-to-day work involves meeting with clients to assess their needs, connecting them to local and federal resources, and assisting with applications for benefits or services. You will frequently coordinate with social workers, healthcare providers, and government agencies to ensure seamless support for your clients. Documentation and follow-up are key parts of the job, as is staying current on program eligibility requirements. This role is collaborative and dynamic, requiring you to balance direct client interactions with administrative responsibilities and advocacy.

What company hires the most people with disabilities?

While specific data on companies hiring the most people with disabilities varies, large organizations such as the U.S. federal government, CVS Health, and Walgreens are known for their inclusive hiring practices and dedicated disability employment programs. These companies often have specialized initiatives, accommodations, and compliance with disability employment laws to support diverse candidates, including those in roles like Disability Program Navigators.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Disability Program Navigator position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Disability Program Navigator, you need in-depth knowledge of disability services, public benefits programs, and case management, often supported by a degree in social work, human services, or a related field. Familiarity with case management software, government databases, and relevant certifications such as Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) can be beneficial. Outstanding interpersonal skills, cultural sensitivity, and the ability to advocate effectively for clients are crucial soft skills in this role. These qualities are essential for successfully guiding individuals with disabilities through complex resource systems and ensuring they receive the support they need.

What is a Disability Program Navigator job?

A Disability Program Navigator (DPN) helps individuals with disabilities access employment, training, and support services. They work within workforce development systems to connect job seekers with resources like vocational rehabilitation, job accommodations, and benefits counseling. DPNs also educate employers on disability hiring practices and workplace accessibility. Their goal is to improve employment outcomes for individuals with disabilities by reducing barriers and increasing access to services.

What does an employment navigator do?

An employment navigator helps individuals with disabilities find and maintain employment by providing guidance, resources, and support throughout the job search and placement process. They assess clients' needs, connect them with suitable job opportunities, and may assist with accommodations or skills development. This role often involves collaboration with employers, service providers, and may require knowledge of disability rights and employment laws.
What are popular job titles related to Disability Program Navigator jobs in Michigan? For Disability Program Navigator jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What are popular job titles related to Disability Program Navigator jobs in MI? For Disability Program Navigator jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Career Navigator

Goodwill SWMI

Kalamazoo, MI โ€ข On-site

$20.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Assist with program development and implementation of career pathways for individuals using the Opportunity Accelerator framework.

  • Guide individuals through the Opportunity Accelerator structure, providing encouragement, support, individualized coaching, and resources as they pursue employment and education goals.

  • Assist participants in overcoming barriers to success, including access to education, job opportunities, and community resources.


Job description

Goodwill Industries of Southwestern Michigan
Position Title: Career Navigator
Classification: Non-Exempt, Full Time
Supervised By: Vice President of Mission Services
Supervises: Does not supervise others
May be responsible for coordinating and supervising activities of participants, interns, work study students or volunteers assigned to Employment programs
WHY WORK FOR GOODWILL?
Ready for a career with impact? Goodwill Industries of Southwestern Michigan (Goodwill SWMI) gives you the opportunity to make a difference in your local community while building your professional skills. Goodwill SWMI is a complex enterprise offering a wide range of career opportunities. Our organization rewards creativity and innovation, while offering competitive pay and a comprehensive benefits package. Our team members enjoy a unique work environment that is professional, fast paced and fulfilling.
ABOUT OUR ORGANIZATION
Goodwill SWMI is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization headquartered in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Our nearly 300 dedicated team members help achieve our mission of improving the community by providing employment, education, training and support services tailored to individual needs across a six county territory. At Goodwill SWMI, the work we do makes a difference in the lives of the individuals we serve and, in turn, in the communities in which we live.
Goodwill SWMI manages ten retail stores (with attached, attended donation centers and one stand-alone donation center), Contract Manufacturing Operations as well as Custodial & Janitorial business units. These business operations provide stability to our organization that is not always enjoyed by nonprofit organizations solely funded by outside sources.
Our organization's values shape our culture and guide our interactions with program participants, customers, community and one another. Our shared commitment to Living the Mission; Promoting Teamwork; Driving Collaboration; Taking Responsibility for our Actions and Behaviors; Respecting and Appreciating Others is what makes us successful and inspires all that we do.
Want to learn more about Goodwill SWMI? Go to our website at: www.goodwillswmi.org
JOB DESCRIPTION
NOTE: Grants support this position. This position's establishment and continuance may be dependent upon on-going grant funding.
General Responsibilities:
The Career Navigator plays a vital role in helping individuals set and achieve workforce development and education goals across southwestern Michigan, including Allegan, Berrien, Cass, Kalamazoo, St. Joseph, and Van Buren counties. They cultivate and maintain relationships with community partners to identify programming opportunities, assist in program development, and maximize available resources to positively impact individuals throughout the region. The Career Navigator is a champion for people's potential, walking alongside community members through our Opportunity Accelerator structure. They provide encouragement and support as individuals work toward their self-defined goals.
The Career Navigator collaborates with both internal (e.g., Goodwill team members) and external (e.g., Michigan Department of Health & Human Services (MDHHS), community colleges, etc.) partners to help participants set and achieve employment and education milestones. They take a person-in-context approach, ensuring individuals receive the customized support and resources they need to succeed. Recognizing that each person's journey is unique, the Career Navigator provides wraparound services tailored to each participant's needs.
This role serves a diverse population, including individuals with disabilities, those experiencing poverty, high school and post-secondary students, and other adults (18+) throughout the region.
The Career Navigator will know they are successful when participants set and achieve workforce and education goals, leading to living-wage employment and thriving communities. Their work centers on building and maintaining strong relationships with Goodwill teammates, participants, and community partners, while providing one-on-one support to those they serve.
Key Performance Indicators for the position include:
  • Individuals enrolled in programming
  • Individuals completing programming
  • Participants who set and achieve at least one employment or education goals
  • Participant/Counselor satisfaction scores

Essential functions include (but are not limited to):
  1. Assist with program development and implementation of career pathways for individuals using the Opportunity Accelerator framework.
  2. Guide individuals through the Opportunity Accelerator structure, providing encouragement and support as they pursue employment and education goals. Offer individualized coaching and resources to ensure participants receive wraparound support tailored to their unique needs.
  3. Assist participants in overcoming barriers to success, including access to education, job opportunities, and community resources.
  4. Support participants in setting and achieving workforce development and education milestones. Track participant progress and ensure they have the necessary tools to secure and retain employment.
  5. Develop and deliver work readiness classes and content to prepare participants for employment opportunities.
  6. Assist with the planning, coordination, and execution of summer work programs for youth and young adults.
  7. Cross-train in Vocational Rehabilitation (VR), providing back-up for work experiences, job placement and other services during busy seasons.
  8. Assist with grants as needed, including providing content, data or reviewing narrative.
  9. Establish and maintain positive working relationships with Goodwill teammates, participants, area employers, community partners and education institutions; work together to strengthen existing programming and identify opportunities for new endeavors.
  10. Keep up to date, accurate, comprehensive digital files; enter all data within seven days of service provision (e.g. into Efforts to Outcomes (ETO), Cognito, etc.)
  11. Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  • Minimum of one year of experience working with individuals with disabilities.
  • Strong understanding of the culture of poverty and the challenges individuals face in achieving economic stability.
  • Previous case management experience preferred
  • Experience in career coaching, employment counseling, or workforce development is preferred
  • Ability to build positive ongoing relationships with Goodwill teammates, adults, youth, community partners and employers
  • Excellent professional presentation skills and appearance
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Excel and Outlook) or comparable software
  • Ability to work independently but also as a member of a collaborative team
  • Ability to make independent objective decisions
  • Possess superior organizational, clerical and communication skills
  • Previous case management experience preferred
  • Data collection and program development experience preferred

Education
High School Diploma/GED required; Bachelor's degree preferred but not required, preferably (but not limited to) social work, psychology, child development, education or human services
Physical Requirements
General office environment. Frequent local travel across southwestern Michigan (Allegan, Berrien, Cass, Kalamazoo, St. Joseph & Van Buren counties). Must possess valid driver's license and be eligible for insurance under Agency's commercial liability policy.
Other
Candidate must pass a pre-employment drug screen and a criminal background check related to safety and welfare of children and families.