Peer Generalist

Job Summary

The Peer Generalist will support the functions of the Peer Navigation program in providing services to those in need. The role involves systemic advocacy, crisis mediation, resource connection, empowerment coaching, and documentation.

Job Duties & Responsibilities

• Accompanied participants to hearings, social services appointments, and housing reviews to defend their rights.
• Teaches participants about available government assistance, tenant rights, and mental health self-determination.
• De-escalates acute situations using trauma-informed care and peer-support frameworks.
• Identifies non-traditional community resources when mainstream systems reject the participant.
• Buils self-advocacy skills so participants can eventually navigate systems independently.
• Ensures group and participant programming remains values-driven, peer-led, person-first, trauma informed, and relationship-centered.
• Ensures accurate, timely documentation, including progress notes, reports, and program data.
• Maintains compliance with agency policies and state/regulatory standards.
• Represents the agency and program at internal meetings, community events, and collaborative workgroups.
• Affords assistance with the oversight, expansion, and continuous improvement of program operations.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent + 3 years of experience providing direct support to individuals with disabilities or psychiatric diagnoses or case management work.
• Must obtain New York State Peer Specialist Certification within 6 months of hire through People-USA system.
• Demonstrated knowledge of trauma-informed care, harm reduction, and strengths-based approaches.
• Strong understanding of recovery principles, peer support models, and employment services.
• Lived experience with mental health and/or substance use recovery is strongly encouraged.
• Exceptional communication and boundary management.
• Familiarity with ADA, mental health systems, Social Security benefits, and community services.
• Must have a clean and valid driver's license.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bilingual (English/Spanish).
• At least 2 years of advocacy experience.
• Lived experience with comfort in appropriate self-disclosure.
• Experience working within non-traditional service models or with individuals who have frequent crisis-service utilization.
• Experience facilitating support groups, networking groups, or family-engagement meetings.
• Familiarity with local behavioral health resources, social services, and community supports.

Reports to

Director of Peer Navigation