Forensic Peer Specialist

Organization: People USA

Job Title: Forensic Peer Specialist

Location: Warren and Washington Counties, NY

Work Schedule: Tuesday - Saturday 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Pay Rate: $21.63 per hour

Position Summary & Responsibilities: The Warren/Washington Forensic Peer Specialist will provide peer-based support, engagement, and advocacy for individuals involved in the criminal justice system, support successful reentry, recovery, and community integration, utilize lived experience to build trust and connect individuals to services (housing, employment, behavioral health), work with local jails, courts, and community providers to ensure continuity of care throughout Warren and Washington Counties for field-based and community.

Job Duties & Responsibilities:

Peer Support & Reentry Services

• Provide direct peer support to individuals involved in or transitioning from the criminal justice system.
• Conduct outreach and engagement within local jails to support reentry planning.
• Assist with development of reentry plans focused on stability and long-term success.
• Offer mentorship, encouragement, and recovery support using lived experience.
  
  
  

Housing & Resource Navigation

• Support individuals connected to housing programs (supportive housing, emergency placements).
• Assist with navigating housing systems and securing stable housing.
• Help obtain necessary documentation and meet housing requirements.
  
  
  

Workforce Development & Employment Support

• Assist individuals in identifying employment and career goals.
• Provide job readiness support (resumes, interviews, workplace expectations).
• Connect individuals to workforce programs, vocational training, and education.
  
  
  

Transportation & Access to Services

• Assist with transportation to appointments, employment, court, and essential services.
• Coordinate with community resources to reduce transportation barriers.
  
  
  

Community & Social Engagement

• Connect individuals to community, recreational, and peer-led activities.
• Encourage participation in recovery and wellness-based supports.
• Promote social connection and reduce isolation.
  
  
  

Collaboration

• Work with jails, probation, courts, and community providers for coordinated care.
• Partner with housing, workforce, and behavioral health agencies.
• Maintain communication with internal teams and supervisors.
  
  
  

Documentation & Reporting

• Document all peer interactions, outreach, and service connections.
• Maintain accurate and timely records in accordance with agency standards.
• Track outcomes related to housing, employment, and reentry.
  
  
  

Job Qualifications/Requirements:

• High School Diploma or equivalent required; Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree preferred.
• Certified Recovery Peer Advocate (CRPA) or ability to obtain within required timeframe.
• Lived experience with recovery, reentry, or criminal justice involvement strongly preferred.
• Experience in behavioral health, substance use, or criminal justice settings preferred.
• Strong communication and engagement skills.
• Ability to build rapport and maintain professional boundaries.
• Clean and valid driver’s license and ability to travel throughout Warren and Washington Counties.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends
  
  
  

Reports to: Warren and Washington Rose House Manager