Job Description

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Peer Support Specialists function as role models to peers, exhibiting competency in personal recovery and use of coping skills to serve as a consumer advocate and provide consumer information and peer support to help clients move out of shelter and into housing. Responsibilities include:

• Perform a wide range of tasks to help clients regain independence within the community, regain mastery over their own recovery process, and move out of shelter into permanent housing.
• Engage and build relationships and rapport with shelter guests, engaging them in Behavioral Health services.
• Coordinate, plan, and conduct Behavioral Health education classes, groups and events.
• Assist clients in applying for and obtaining vital documents—including social security cards, IDs, and birth certificates.
• Assist clients in completing various housing and housing-related applications, including BHA applications.
• Bring MATCH-enrolled clients on apartment viewings and lease signings as needed.
• Transport clients to related appointments, including medical, psychiatric, BHA, RMV, social security office, job fairs, furniture bank , etc.
• Assist clients obtaining any documentation for SSI/SSDI applications.
• Schedule appointments for clients with key partners and providers including the Mayor’s Health Line, community day shelters,
• Assist in locating clients to inform them of key housing events and opportunities.
• Accompany staff on wellness checks and other visits requiring multiple staff for safety reasons.
• Receive certification for peer support from the Department of Mental Health
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent.

Previous participation in Mental Health or Substance Abuse service systems as recipient of service and a willingness to convey this experience is strongly preferred.

1 year of experience in related field desirable.

Valid Mass Driver’s license is strongly preferred.

Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build trust and rapport with individuals from different backgrounds.

Computer proficiency –including ability to use Microsoft Word, navigate internet, complete forms online, and send emails.

Mission Statement

The mission of the Boston Public Health Commission (BPHC) is to work in partnership with communities to protect and promote the health and well-being of all Boston residents, especially those impacted by racism and systemic inequities. The BPHC sets an expectation that all staff and leadership commit, individually and as part of the BPHC team, to hold ourselves accountable to establishing a culture of anti-racism and advance racial equity and justice through each of our bureaus, programs, and offices.

Additional Information

• City of Boston residency is required; Allston, Back Bay, Bay Village, Beacon Hill, Brighton, Charlestown, Chinatown, Dorchester, Downtown, East Boston, Fenway-Kenmore, Hyde Park, Jamaica Plain, Mattapan, Mid-Dorchester, Mission Hill, North End, Roslindale, Roxbury, South Boston, South End, West End, West Roxbury, Wharf district.
• A Criminal Offenders Records Information request must be completed for this position. However, a record is not an automatic bar to employment but is reviewed in relation to the job applied for.
• Certain immunizations will be recommended and/or required prior to commencement of employment duties.
• Any position that requires an advanced degree will be subject to education verification.
• Certain positions at the BPHC may be Grant Funded.
• The Boston Public Health Commission is an EEO Employer and all applicants meeting the minimum requirements are eligible to apply.
• Certain positions at the BPHC may require Child Protective Service Background verification.
• The advertised shift and schedule are subject to change at the department's discretion.

Shift

Tuesday to Saturday 10am to 6pm

Pay Range

$18.78 - $19.85 Hourly