Peer Navigator

POSITION: Peer Navigator

POSITION CLASSIFICATION: Full Time, Hourly

REPORTS TO: Clinical Director/ Executive Director

JOB SUMMARY: The role of a Peer Navigator centers around offering support and guidance to persons who use drugs (PWUD) or are in recovery helping assist them in navigating complex systems, such as healthcare, social services, or harm reduction organizations. This position fosters a unique connection, built on empathy and understanding, which can significantly enhance an individual’s ability to access necessary resources and services. By serving as a knowledgeable ally, Peer Navigators empower those they assist, promoting independence and self-advocacy. The Peer Navigator must be knowledgeable of local public health resources so as to guide PWUD to remain engaged in treatment and care.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITES:

• Provide one-on-one support to individuals navigating complex healthcare, social services, or recovery systems, tailoring guidance to each person’s unique situation and needs.
• Provide a link for individuals who use drugs to overdose prevention and reversal tools, treatment options and drug checking equipment.
• Develop and sustain partnerships with syringe services programs and harm reduction organizations.
• Facilitate group sessions or workshops that offer education, support, and resources on topics relevant to the community served, such as disease management, wellness strategies, or navigating legal and social service systems in and around substance misuse.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive resource lists or databases that include local services, providers, and programs beneficial to the community served, ensuring information is current and accessible.
• Advocate on behalf of clients to ensure they receive appropriate services, support, and accommodations from healthcare providers, social services, or other agencies, including attending appointments or meetings as needed.
• Create and distribute educational materials, such as brochures, flyers, or social media content, that provide valuable information on health, wellness, and available services to the community.
• Implement peer-led initiatives or projects that address specific community needs, collaborating with local organizations, stakeholders, and community members to enhance service delivery and support systems.
• Conduct outreach efforts to identify and engage individuals who may benefit from peer support services, including visiting local community centers, clinics, and events to raise awareness about available resources in and around substance misuse.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of peer support services and programs through collecting feedback from participants, analyzing data, and making recommendations for improvements to ensure the needs of the community are being met.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Minimum of high school diploma or equivalent.
• Post Secondary Education, with focus in psychology, social work, counseling, and/or substance use preferred.
• Certified Peer Coach/Support Specialist a plus.
• Must be able to communicate well with others through active listening, empathy and guidance.
• Self- starter and multi-task individual, excellent organizational skills.
• Good written communication and letter writing skills.
• Excellent computer skills/knowledge.
• Strong public speaking skills a must

PHYSICAL EFFORT AND WORK ENVIRONMENT:

Incumbent is exposed to health and physical hazards associated with working in an administrative facility. Incumbent will also be exposed to alternate administrative facilities with individualized policy and procedures. COVID protocol as per agency policy must be followed. Facility has no on-site parking but shares a small lot across the street.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $21.00 - $22.00 per hour

Expected hours: 32 per week

Benefits:

• 403(b) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Mileage reimbursement
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Professional development assistance
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Day shift
• Evenings as needed

People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Columbus, IN 47201