Technology Navigator

Position Summary: 

The Technology Navigator (TN) supports consumers to obtain digital devices (cell phones, tablets and computers), and provides skills training to consumers in the effective use of technology to address independent living goals. The TN also develops and delivers training for BCIL staff, enabling them to better support the basic technology needs of consumers.   

 The Boston Center for Independent Living (BCIL) is a frontline civil rights organization led by people with disabilities that advocates to eliminate discrimination, isolation, and segregation.  Our mission is to enhance the independence and inclusion of people with disabilities through advocacy, information and referral, peer support, skills training, PCA, and transitional services. 

 As an organization, we commit to making all aspects of our work antiracist, not only because it is just but because it is necessary to serve our community of people with disabilities. We commit to purposefully identify, discuss, and challenge issues of race and ethnicity, and the impacts they have on our organization, our work, and our people. 

BCIL serves a very diverse clientele, and our staff reflects much of that diversity. People with disabilities, people of color, and those who speak languages in addition to English are encouraged to apply. All applicants are welcome. 

Essential Job Functions: 

• Provide one-on-one technical support to consumers to facilitate achievement of their technology goals.  

• Train consumers and staff on the use of accessibility features on their devices.  

• Train BCIL staff on how to support consumers to learn technology basics, including how to power up devices, access the internet, and navigate programs (Zoom, email, telehealth, etc.).  

• Develop and modify training and reference materials to be used by BCIL staff to support consumers’ technology goals.  

• Seek out and participate in training opportunities related to digital literacy, equity and internet safety, and share information with Direct Service team.  

• Track completion of consumers’ technology and skills assessments.  

• Order and maintain accurate inventory and tracking of equipment, including smartphones, tablets, and laptops. Distribute devices, as available, to eligible consumers.  Alternatively, help facilitate access to devices through other sources (Easter Seals, MRC, Tech Goes Home, etc.).  

• Collect data and prepare and submit reports as may be required by BCIL managers, supervisor and/or program funders.  

• Perform other duties, as assigned.  

Desired Qualifications: 

• Experience working in a customer-service-like or helpdesk role. 

• Experience providing technical support to people with low digital literacy. 

• Familiarity with a variety of technology products, including smartphones, tablets, and laptops and their built-in accessibility features. 

• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work effectively as a team member, including the ability to collaborate as a member of a cross-functional team. 

• Strong organizational skills and an ability to plan and schedule activities and operate independently with minimal direction.  

• Ability to communicate and interact with BCIL consumers in a way that respects their privacy, individual identities, and unique support needs.   

• Ability to use word processing and spreadsheet software (MS Excel, PPT, Word) 

Desired Requirements: 

• Commitment to independent living philosophy 

• At least 1 year of experience in human services work, or in a service-user-facing technology-related field 

• Experience working with people with disabilities  

Working Environment: 

The office area is a shared workspace. Verbal communication can be heard from other staff in adjoining areas. The position requires 5 days per week in the office (at Downtown Crossing and Fields Corner) and/or in the community.  Some work with consumers will occur in their homes, or in skilled nursing facilities.  Occasional remote work may be authorized as appropriate. 

Hours: 

40 Hours – Full Time 

Benefits: 

• 2 weeks paid vacation (increases with length of service) 

• 2 personal days /13 holidays / 12 sick days 

• Health, dental, and vision (75% paid by agency).  Short-term disability, long-term disability, and group life insurance 100% are company-paid. 

• Optional FSA medical and dependent care accounts, critical care insurance, and additional life insurance available (employee paid). 

• 403(B) Retirement plans available. 

Salary:  $54,000. Language differential is available for languages commonly spoken by BCIL consumers. 

 Email cover letter and resume to:  BCILemployment@bostoncil.org  

BCIL is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer.  Reasonable accommodation is provided as needed for employees and other affiliates.  Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) and List of Excluded Individuals/Entities (LEIE) checks are part of BCIL’s standard procedure.