Peer Support Specialist – SSVF

Job Title: Peer Support Specialist
Department: Client Services
Program: Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF)
Reports To: SSVF Program Coordinator
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt – Hourly – Full Time

Position Summary
The Peer Support Specialist provides direct outreach and pre-screening to potential individuals interested in enrolling in the Supportive Services for Veteran Families Program. Qualified candidate must possess a clear understanding of the service delivery system and the resources available for veterans and their families. Individual will provide peer support, mentoring, and coaching to SSVF program participants to help them access and navigate community and veteran resources. This individual will also serve as a quality assurance representative to veteran households accessing SSVF funds and participate as a member of the strengths-based Case Management team.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Outreach
Identify locations frequented by potential veteran applicants (including veteran family members).
Provide direct outreach to veterans and their families in their naturally occurring environments (i.e., home visits and street outreach).
Engage and build rapport with target population.
Provide identification of and pre-screening for eligibility of potential applicants.
Coordinate initial screening and assessment with Case Management team.
Participate in Stand Downs and other VA/community outreach activities.
Provide client access to services and community resources as needed.
Support
Provide peer support, mentoring, and coaching to SSVF participants through assistance in navigating and accessing veteran and mainstream resources.
Accompany veterans to appointments, when appropriate.
Provide peer support and mentoring in securing permanent housing.
Facilitate discussion and training in peer groups, as determined by the Case Management team.
Monitor and document participation, progress, referrals, and services provided to participant.
Assist Case Management team in preparing discharge plans and follow-up contact with SSVF program participants.
Complete paperwork and data reports as requested by the Program Manager.
Deliver skill training sessions to help clients develop coping skills and life skills.
Advocate for veteran’s needs and rights within the community and healthcare system.
Assist veterans in setting and achieving personal goals related to their recovery and rehabilitation.
Networking
Attending agency, community, and supervisory meetings, as needed.
Maintain working relationships with community agencies to provide comprehensive services to participants.
Maintain working relationships with veteran serving organizations.
Attending in-service training courses and outside conferences/workshops, as requested by the Program Manager.

Qualifications

EducationRequired: High School Diploma or GED
Preferred: Bachelors in human services/related field
Required: Certification as a Peer Support Specialist or Mentor; will also accept LCDC or equivalent qualification OR willingness to complete certification within 1 year of hire date

Experience

Knowledge and experience with the 12-step program for substance abuse or equivalent model
Required: This position is specific to an individual with prior military experience.
Preferred: Experience or education with human services, homelessness, and veteran resources is a plus.
Must be able to comply with complex governmental regulations, policies and procedures and demonstrate thorough document compliance efforts and activities.
Computer Skills
Must be proficient with data management and information systems and have basic knowledge of Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.

Other:
Basic knowledge of the resources in the community available for the veteran population, especially services and programs offered by the VA.
Have basic knowledge of severe and persistent mental illness and substance abuse.
Ability to form partnerships in the community and seek out community resources.
Strong oral and written communications.
Strong organizational, time management, and data management skills.
Proven ability to work effectively both individually and as part of a team
Ability to multi-task and problem solve under pressure.
Ability to provide positive customer service to difficult populations.
Valid Texas driver’s license, ability to drive van or bus and have reliable transportation.
Salary/Benefits:
Base Salary Range: $41,679 – $56,490
Employer paid health, dental, vision, life, short-term disability, and long-term disability insurance for employees
14 Paid Holidays per year
20 days of accrued PTO in year one with increases up to 31 days per year
Retirement plan with employer match
Discounted Rates on Gold’s Gym and Legal Shield memberships
Mileage Reimbursement
Monthly Phone Stipend
Monthly Paid Parking for employees who office from the Downtown Location
Application Requirements:
Incomplete applications will not be reviewed or considered. To be considered for this position, applicants must submit all of the following:
A detailed resume outlining relevant experience
A cover letter tailored to the position
A list of professional references
A fully completed application
Applications missing any of these components will be considered incomplete and will not move forward in the review process.
Caritas of Austin is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.