S:US is seeking a Peer Specialist for our men's shelter in Brooklyn.

This position is located at 599 Ralph Avenue Brooklyn, NY 12233.

SCOPE OF ROLE:
Experience in providing advocacy services to people who have a mental health diagnosis, history of
homeless and/or substance use diagnosis. Past or current recipient of mental health, substance
services or homeless services. Must be able to utilize Word, Excel, Outlook, and the ability to write
professional clinical notes.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Interface with representatives from Probation/ Parole in order to encourage consumer compliance
with requirements and facilitate communication.
• Act as an advocate for consumers as appropriate; encourage and support self‐ advocacy.
• Develop and facilitate a peer support group for agency consumers.
• Develop, with consumers, individualized strategies for reducing the negative consequences of drug
use and not taking medication for mental illness.
• Provide outreach intervention and referral services through the distribution of materials,
information, education and prevention messages to consumers in their homes and/or in group
settings.
• Promote problem solving and decision‐making skill development, particularly in the areas of drug
use, sexual risk reduction, and medical treatment.
• Strong attention to detail
• Effectively communicates with others in writing and verbally
• Works independently
• Provides flexible evening, night, weekend and holiday coverage

REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Minimum of high school diploma or equivalent (GED)
• One year work experience in a shelter or related setting, preferably using the recovery model
• Must have lived experience with the mental health system and willingness to share personal
experience appropriately and respectfully
• Ability to utilize critical thinking, problem‐solving and de‐escalation skills to assist with creating and
maintaining an environment that promotes recovery

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS

• Peer Certification preferred
• A respect for, and high level of comfort around people experiencing psychiatric crisis preferred
• Exceptional written and oral communication skills including empathic listening, responding
preferred
• Bilingual English/Spanish a plus

Benefits Overview: We offer attractive compensation with comprehensive benefits including: Medical/Dental/Prescription/Vision/Life Insurance; 403(b); Credit Union; FSAs; Short-and-Long-Term Disability; Transportation Plan; Generous Paid Vacations and Holidays’

S:US IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER