Peer Navigator

About the role

The Peer Navigator position within SSG-Project 180 is designed to provide support and counseling to individuals who have experienced homelessness, incarceration, and substance use and mental health recovery. This role is integral to the Rapid Diversion Program (RDP), which aims to divert criminal defendants from the criminal legal system at the early stages of the court process.

Responsibilities

• Assist clients in safely attending community and linkage appointments
• Pick clients up from LA County Jail and support the team with welcoming them, as the first agency contact they have.
• Communicate with treatment team members regarding scheduled appointments and any client observations, concerns or requests.
• Complete other administrative runs/pickups (i.e. transporting medications and program supplies) as scheduled.
• Train new case managers on the jail pick-up process.
• Provide peer-to-peer support and counseling drawing from lived experience.
• Encourage clients in the development of and active participation in meaningful roles in the community.
• Teach clients skills for community independence.
• Use Motivational Interviewing techniques to engage clients in treatment engagement.
• Provide general administrative support.
• Maintain an up to date Google calendar with all tasks and assignments.

Provider & Team Rapport

• Build strong rapport with case managers and conduct regular provider check-ins.
• Support client success through active communication and problem-solving.

Minimum Qualifications

• Lived experience with mental health/substance use recovery or the criminal justice system.
• Experience working with culturally diverse populations.
• Valid CA driver’s license, proof of insurance and own vehicle required. Ability to transport clients in personal vehicle as needed.
• No legal supervision (probation or parole).
• Basic computer skills.
• Spanish speaking (preferred).

Environmental Conditions (Working Conditions)

Job duties are to be performed both in office and field settings. Physical requirements include moving about the worksite throughout the day, driving, carrying a maximum of 20 lbs, listening, and speaking to complete job requirements. Mental requirements include performing complex and varied tasks, handling routine distractions, interruptions, noise, and uncontrollable changes in priorities/work schedules, interacting professionally and diplomatically in high-stress situations, creating and following plans, meeting deadlines.