What are the responsibilities and job description for the PT Indigenous Advocate (20 hours/week; hybrid) position at WSNARC - Western Slope Native American Resource...?
Job Posting Summary
Position: Indigenous Peer Navigator / Advocate
Department: Behavioral Health Program
Reports To: Operations Manager / Co-Assistant Director
Status: Part-Time, Non-Exempt (Hourly)
Pay: $24.15–$25.00 per hour
Location: Grand Junction Office
Date Posted: April 1, 2026
Important Application Instructions
- Do not call the WSNARC office regarding this position.
- Candidates will be contacted via this platform or email within approximately 2 weeks.
- Before applying, please email spettey@wsnarc.org outlining your experience with Indigenous resources.
- This role will support the Essette program — please highlight any Essette experience in your cover letter.
Position Overview
Under general supervision, the Indigenous Peer Navigator/Advocate provides advanced-level support connecting individuals to critical services across multiple systems. This role serves individuals facing challenges such as homelessness, poverty, unemployment, behavioral health conditions, substance use, and justice system involvement.
The position focuses on building trust-based peer relationships, identifying strengths, reducing barriers, and guiding clients through systems using advocacy, coaching, and culturally responsive care.
Role Purpose
To deliver culturally responsive, client-centered services that enhance care outcomes while supporting underserved Indigenous communities. This role plays a key part in building a sustainable, impactful behavioral health program.
Key ResponsibilitiesClient Outreach & Engagement
- Use Essette workflows to identify, contact, and engage clients
- Maintain accurate documentation of all outreach and interactions
- Ensure clients are connected to appropriate services
Goal Setting & Empowerment
- Collaborate with clients to establish goals and action plans
- Provide ongoing encouragement, coaching, and advocacy
- Support client ownership of progress
Service Coordination
- Connect clients to clinical and community resources
- Document referrals, appointments, and outcomes in Essette
- Assist with transportation and appointment navigation
Cultural & Community Support
- Connect clients to culturally relevant programs and tribal resources
- Promote cultural identity as part of healing and recovery
Progress Monitoring
- Track client outcomes and engagement
- Address barriers and adjust care plans as needed
Relationship Building
- Develop partnerships with service providers and community organizations
- Collaborate to improve service access and continuity of care
Life Skills Coaching
- Support independent living and self-management skills
- Provide emotional support and resilience-building strategies
Professional Standards
- Maintain ethical boundaries and confidentiality
- Practice trauma-informed and culturally humble care
Team Collaboration & Development
- Attend weekly supervision
- Participate in ongoing training and professional development
Required Knowledge & SkillsCore Knowledge
- Essette or similar case management systems
- Behavioral health systems and community resource navigation
- HIPAA compliance and ethical documentation
- Customer service and client engagement best practices
Key Skills
- Strong communication and active listening
- Critical thinking and problem-solving
- Relationship building and collaboration
- Time management and organization
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and digital systems
Essential Abilities
- Cultural competence, especially with Indigenous communities
- Adaptability and resilience in dynamic environments
- Attention to detail and data accuracy
- Ability to empower and advocate for clients
- High emotional intelligence and professionalism
Qualifications
- Experience working with American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) communities (preferred)
- Essette experience or similar system required
- Knowledge of community resources and service systems
- Strong client engagement and advocacy skills
- Ability to navigate complex systems and coordinate care
- Commitment to cultural humility and ethical practice
Education & Requirements
- High School Diploma or GED (required)
- Relevant college coursework or degree (preferred)
- Valid driver’s license and proof of insurance
- Peer support or recovery coaching certification (preferred)
Work Environment & Physical Requirements
- Office-based work with regular computer and phone use
- Local travel to community sites, partner agencies, and client meetings
- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs occasionally
- Flexibility to work evenings or weekends as needed
Additional Information
Western Slope Native American Resources (WSNARC) is an equal opportunity employer and adheres to the Indian Preference Act (Title 25 CFR, Section 472).
We maintain a smoke-free and drug-free workplace. Employment is contingent upon background checks and reference verification.
Benefits
- Paid time off
- Applicants with criminal records are encouraged to apply
Work Location
Hybrid; In-person (Grand Junction, CO)
Pay: $24.15 - $25.00 per hour
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Grand Junction, CO 81501
Salary : $24 - $25