Peer Specialist

Peer Specialist Queens Position Overview The Queens Supervised Release Program provides pretrial support to individuals arrested in Queens. The Peer Support Specialist (PSS) works under a Peer Supervisor to provide non‑clinical, trauma‑informed, person‑centered support to mandated participants. The role involves building authentic peer relationships, supporting engagement, and collaborating with case managers, clinicians, and legal partners to reduce recidivism. Primary Responsibilities Support a caseload of 15-20 high‑needs participants, providing face‑to‑face, telephonic, and community peer recovery support and advocacy. Establish supportive, peer‑based relationships grounded in trust, mutual respect, and shared experience. Provide one‑on‑one peer mentoring, advocacy, and emotional support to program participants. Assist participants in identifying goals related to housing, employment, wellness, sobriety, and social connection. Accompany participants to court appearances, community appointments, or service referrals as needed. Support participants in navigating court requirements, probation/parole expectations, and community service obligations. Provide court‑based Peer support to participants upon completion of arraignment, identifying immediate needs or concerns, and facilitating immediate connections to community‑based services. Facilitate or co‑facilitate peer‑led groups focused on recovery, emotional regulation, life skills, and reentry planning. Collaborate with case managers and legal advocates to ensure participant needs and preferences are understood and honored. Participate in regular supervision, peer development meetings, and trainings related to harm reduction, trauma‑informed care, and justice‑system navigation. Document participant engagement and progress in a timely manner in an electronic case management system in accordance with program guidelines and confidentiality requirements. Uphold ethical guidelines, competencies, and boundaries appropriate to peer support roles. Required Qualifications HS Diploma or equivalency required. NYS Peer Specialist certification (CPS) OR Recovery Peer Advocate certification (CRPA) required. Certification must be maintained and kept current while employed in this position. 2 years of professional experience as a Peer Specialist, Peer Advocate, Peer Navigator, or Peer Counselor in a Behavioral Health or Criminal Justice setting required. Personal lived experience with the criminal legal system and/or recovery from substance use, mental health, or homelessness. Ability to model recovery‑oriented practices. Strong communication and interpersonal skills. Ability to maintain boundaries and practice cultural humility. Familiarity with community‑based resources including housing, treatment, employment services, and legal supports. Proficiency in using computer software applications such as Microsoft Office suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook), email, web browser and database/file management systems required. Reliable transportation and ability to travel locally as needed. Preferred Qualifications Experience working or volunteering in peer support, reentry programs, harm reduction, or behavioral health settings. Knowledge of trauma‑informed and restorative justice principles. Bilingual or multilingual (especially Spanish, if applicable to your region). Working Conditions This role involves a combination of office, community, and courtroom settings. Occasional evening or weekend hours may be required. Peer Support Specialists must be able to model wellness and uphold recovery principles in challenging environments. Commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging The New York City Criminal Justice Agency is committed to building a team that reflects the communities we serve. We strongly encourage applications from people who have been impacted by the justice system, are in recovery, or identify as part of historically marginalized communities. Additional Requirements Familiarity with Pretrial/Supervised Release, Alternative to Detention (ATD), Alternative to Incarceration (ATI), or other advocacy program models. Working knowledge of community‑based treatment programs (substance use, mental health, etc.) and other support services and resources (housing, education, employment, vocational, etc.). Ability to maintain professional boundaries and confidentiality in compliance with agency and state guidelines. Must be willing to work evening and weekend hours, as operations expand. Willingness to travel via public transportation to conduct community visits with participants. Benefits Benefits: CJA offers a generous benefits plan including health, dental, vision insurance, a comprehensive mental health and wellness (EAP) plan, four weeks vacation, paid holidays, and a retirement plan with employer matching contributions. CJA also offers professional learning and development opportunities. Salary Salary: $53,053 Additional Information *Internal applicants must be at least 1 year in their current role and in good standing (no disciplinary action within the last 90 days) to be eligible for this role. Only those candidates being considered will be contacted. Equal Opportunity Employer The New York City Criminal Justice Agency is an Equal Opportunity Employer. #J-18808-Ljbffr