Job Description

The Digital Navigator is a trusted community guide who supports community members with ongoing, individualized support for accessing affordable and appropriate connectivity, devices, and digital skills. Although employed by Riverland Community College, the Navigator serves as a neutral, community-centered resource, providing individualized and small-group assistance to help community members gain confidence using digital tools and online services.

Digital Navigators work in community locations to help individuals access affordable internet, secure appropriate devices, develop essential digital skills, and successfully navigate online systems related to healthcare, education, employment, and civic participation.

This initiative is grant-funded for up to 5 years (2026-2030). Work schedule will include occasional evenings and/or weekends based on client availability, outreach events, and partner site hours.

PRINCIPLE RESPONSIBILITIES AND RESULTS

Examples of key duties are interpreted as descriptive and not restrictive.

1. Client Support & Digital Skills Coaching

• Provide individualized coaching and small-group instruction on basic digital skills.

• Assess clients’ device access, connectivity, skill level, and goals; document findings.

• Create individualized learning plans that reflect client-led goals and priorities while maintaining confidentiality.

• Assist clients in accessing low-cost internet, devices, and device repair resources.

• Provide support in person or remotely (phone, text, email, video).

• Provide services at multiple community locations throughout the week; rotate between partner sites based on scheduled hours, community needs, and program coverage.

Priority:  Essential                                  Percent of Time: 50%

2. Training Delivery & Instruction

• Design and deliver basic digital literacy workshops or training sessions in community settings.

• Create visual aids, handouts, and reference materials that are culturally and linguistically appropriate.

• Adjust instruction to various skill levels, learning styles, and language needs.

Priority:  Essential                                  Percent of Time: 25%

3. Outreach, Partnerships & Community Engagement

• Conduct outreach and engagement opportunities in collaboration with community organizations and referral partners.

• Respond to referrals from community partners, the Advisory Board, and direct client inquiries.

• Deliver presentations to promote the Digital Equity Initiative and build awareness among potential clients and partners.

• Work collaboratively with Supervisor and Advisory Board to identify communities and individuals experiencing the most significant digital barriers.

Priority:  Essential                                  Percent of Time: 10%

4. Documentation, Reporting & Program Support

• Maintain accurate and timely records of client interactions, progress, and outcomes.

• Provide feedback to the Supervisor on trends, barriers, and client needs. Receive feedback from the Supervisor on best practices and receive professional development trainings to engage in continuous improvement.

• Assist with program logistics, materials, and community engagement activities.

• Support neutral, community-facing marketing and communications.

Priority:  Secondary                   Percent of Time:        10%

5. Other Duties as Assigned

• Participation in Riverland employee trainings and other duties that facilitate collaboration with other Riverland departments and employees for the benefit of the implementation of the Digital Equity Initiative.

Priority:  Secondary             Percent of Time:        5%

Salary Range:

$24.40 - $35.30 / $ 50,947.00 - $ 73,706.00

Minimum Qualifications

• One (1) year of professional relevant work experience OR an equivalent combination of education and experience.  An associate degree could substitute for 6 months of experience, a bachelor’s degree is 12 months, and a master’s degree is 18 months within any of the following disciplines, customer service, teaching, mentoring, supporting adult learners, or other relevant work experience.

• Demonstrated comfort with technology, including troubleshooting and use of common devices and apps.

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to work successfully with diverse backgrounds.

• Ability to provide patient, supportive instruction to adult learners new to technology.

• Proven ability to manage schedules, maintain documentation, and work independently in community settings.

• Problem-solving skills and adaptability.

Preferred Qualification 

• Associate degree or experience teaching, tutoring, mentoring, or supporting adult learners.

• Customer service, community outreach, or information technology experience.

• Bilingual/Multilingual fluency in Spanish, Karen, Karenni, Somali, Pohnpeian, French, Nuer, Anuak, or other languages that reflect our student body, workforce, and communities.

• Demonstrated experience working with a multicultural and underserved population.

Other Requirements

A complete online application will include a letter of interest and a resume/curriculum vitae.  Please note that the search committee will not review incomplete applications.

This position requires completing employment references and a driver’s license background check.

In accordance with the Minnesota State Colleges & Universities (Minnesota State) Vehicle Fleet Safety Program, employees driving on college/university business who use a rental or state vehicle shall be required to conform to Minnesota State’s Vehicle use criteria and consent to Motor Vehicle Records check. 

Minnesota State is unable to sponsor Applicants for work visas. All Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the US.

If you would like to request an accommodation as part of the application process, please contact Aimee Sue Larson at aimee.larson@riverland.edu

Work Shift (Hours / Days of work)

11:00 am - 8:30 pm / Tuesday - Friday

12:00 pm - 4:00 pm / Saturday

Occasional special event hours outside that schedule.
 

Telework (Yes/No)
No

About

Riverland Community College is dedicated to fostering an environment where employees, students, and the region thrive. Guided by our vision, mission, and values, we provide excellent opportunities for students to reach their academic and career goals. Our values focus on cultivating student growth through service, collaboration, innovation, and respect. We offer a supportive and innovative culture that values individual and team contributions and is committed to diversity and inclusion.

Diversity and Inclusion: We are dedicated to continually developing a workforce that mirrors the diversity of our students and communities. We recognize the value of diverse experiences and perspectives, which enhance our ability to serve the people of our region effectively.

Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) Commitment: Riverland is an emerging Hispanic-Serving Institution. We welcome candidates who understand HSIs and the Latinx student experience, further enriching our inclusive community.

Student-Centered Education: With small class sizes, personalized instruction, and hands-on learning. Riverland offers student-centered education that empowers individuals to succeed. Our diverse range of credit and non-credit courses caters to various learning modalities.

Program Offerings: With campuses in Albert Lea, Austin, and Owatonna, Riverland offers associate degrees in over 90 career options, liberal arts and sciences, and customized training, providing comprehensive educational opportunities for all.

Community and Quality of Life: Located in southern Minnesota, our region boasts excellent public and parochial education systems, diverse recreational activities for all seasons, and upscale communities that enrich personal and professional lives.