Peer Specialist

PROGRAM SUMMARY

CJA operates a Supervised Release Program in Queens Criminal Court. The program, which operates during the day and night court in Queens, screens targeted court-involved individuals for release at criminal court arraignment, subject to specific conditions including maintaining face-to-face and telephone contact with the program, participating in an assessment process to identify needs such as substance use and mental health, and agreeing to program monitoring of court appearances and re-arrests.

This is a great opportunity for a dynamic, knowledgeable individual, experienced in dealing with high-needs populations such as those with mental health diagnoses, at-risk youth, and others with social, emotional, or developmental challenges, who have criminal court involvement.

POSITION SUMMARY

Under the supervision of a Peer Supervisor, the Peer Support Specialist (PSS) provides non-clinical, trauma-informed, and person-centered support to individuals mandated to participate in the Queens Supervised Release program. Drawing upon their own experiences with the justice system, recovery, or reentry, the PSS builds authentic relationships that foster trust, engagement, and personal growth. The PSS serves as a role model for recovery, resilience, and reintegration, and works collaboratively with case managers, clinicians, and/or behavioral health specialists, housing specialists, and legal system partners to reduce recidivism and support client success.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

As part of an interdisciplinary team the Peer Specialist will be responsible for supporting a caseload of 15–20 high-needs (serious mental illness, substance use, homelessness) participants at a time, 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)