PEER NAVIGATOR

Position Summary

The Peer Navigator provides individualized and group education and support to clients, families, and friends affected by HIV. This includes guidance on medical/medication issues, benefits eligibility, and continuum of care, helping clients maintain motivation to improve health and well-being.

Authority and Independence

The Peer Navigator works under general supervision and exercises independent judgment within established policies. The role requires maintaining confidentiality, conducting outreach/engagement, accompanying clients to appointments, and providing empathetic peer support with cultural sensitivity.

Minimum Qualifications

• High School diploma, GED, or equivalent.
• Reflective of served communities (e.g., bilingual, PLWHA, African American, Latino, LGBTQ+, persons in recovery).
• Familiarity with HIV primary care, mental health, substance use services in ACR Health’s Ryan White region.

Skills And Competencies

• Strong written/verbal communication and documentation skills.
• Cultural/linguistic competence; stigma-free, non-judgmental, culturally responsive services.
• Proficient in email/Microsoft Office Suite; database experience preferred.
• Sensitivity to HIV/AIDS, chronic illnesses, LGBTQI+, BIPOC populations; commitment to ACR Health mission/values and HIPAA.

Other Requirements

• Valid NYS driver’s license and reliable access to insured vehicle for travel/training/outreach/client transport.
• Personal lived experience with HIV required for empathetic peer support.

Primary Responsibilities

• Maintain confidentiality per Article 27-F, HIPAA, ACR Health policies/regulations; protect agency data.
• Conduct outreach/engagement to connect/retain clients in care; support self-advocacy/self-management.
• Accompany clients to clinical/supportive appointments; assist NMCM interventions/education.
• Collaborate with Ryan White Support Specialists for health education, work with program staff for holistic care.
• Assist with education group setup/facilitation; ensure client adherence to program policies.
• Coordinate community activities; communicate with AIDS Institute staff.
• Maintain accurate client records/reports; stay current on Ryan White regulations.
• Attend required meetings/trainings; perform other duties as assigned by management.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Generous paid time off and holiday pay.
• Life Insurance.
• 403(b) retirement savings plan with agency contributions.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

FLSA Status

Non-Exempt

Location

Syracuse Office – 627 West Genesee Street

Hours per week

35

Work Schedule

Full Time; occasional evenings/weekends for meetings, workshops, conferences, seminars.