NAVIGATOR SPECIALIST

At Cooper University Health Care, our commitment to providing extraordinary health care begins with our team. Our extraordinary professionals are continuously discovering clinical innovations and enhanced access to the most up-to-date facilities, equipment, technologies and research protocols. We have a commitment to our employees to provide competitive rates and compensation programs. Cooper offers full and part-time employees a comprehensive benefits program, including health, dental, vision, life, disability, and retirement. We also provide attractive working conditions and opportunities for career growth through professional development.

Discover why Cooper University Health Care is the employer of choice in South Jersey.

The UHI Navigator is a vital member of the healthcare team, dedicated to supporting patients through care management and transitions.

This role focuses on empowering patients to actively participate in their health journey by providing personalized coaching, resource navigation, and system support.

The UHI Navigator plays a critical role in supporting individuals with Substance Use Disorder (SUD), mental health diagnoses, and other medical conditions by providing comprehensive care coordination and case management services.

This position facilitates access to appropriate clinical services—including medication-assisted treatment (MAT), behavioral health care, and social services—while fostering trust-based relationships that encourage engagement and retention in treatment.

Through personalized support, education, and navigation, the Navigator helps patients identify and address barriers to wellness, including physical health, social support, housing, financial stability, and personal goals.

This role is essential in bridging gaps across systems and ensuring patients receive the holistic support needed to achieve and maintain optimal health outcomes.

Assist patients in managing care transitions and understanding their care plans.

Screen patients for social determinants of health and connect them to appropriate resources, including food, housing, transportation, and other community services.

Provide education and coaching to help patients build the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to manage their health.

Encourage and support patients in scheduling their own medical appointments and transportation.

Serve as a liaison between patients and clinical teams to ensure continuity of care.

Help patients navigate complex healthcare and social service systems.

Document patient interactions and progress in accordance with organizational standards.

Collaborate with providers, care coordinators, and other team members to address barriers to care.

Escalate clinical questions to office nurses or Director of Clinical Practice.

Performs all related duties or special projects as assigned/required.

High School Diploma REQUIRED

1 year of relevant experience if candidate has bachelor's degree in related field or 2 years of relevant experience if candidate has associate's degree or is a Certified Peer Recovery Specialist.

4 years of relevant experience, either clinical or lived, if candidate is a Certified Medical Assistant.

4 years of relevant experience, either clinical or lived, accepted in lieu of bachelors, associates or relevant certification.

Lived experience with navigating the criminal-legal system preferred. 

Bilingual candidates preferred. 

Registered Nurse, OR

Licensed Practical Nurse with 2 years lived experience, OR

Baccalaureate (BA) degree with 2 years lived experience, OR

Associate degree with 4 years of lived experience, OR

Certified Medical Assistant with 4 years of lived experience

Communication – Ability to communicate with patients, visitors and coworkers

Bi-Lingual preferred