Peer Support Counselor

Overview:

As a Building Bridges (B2) Peer Support Counselor you work directly with individuals experiencing homelessness. B2 is a collaborative homeless resource located in Ukiah designed to provide housing related services, and safe shelter to people experiencing a housing crisis. Services are provided through a partnership of multiple community agencies. B2 operates from a low barrier perspective, minimizing barriers to services, shelter, and housing resources.

This full‑time position works as part of a team  assist individuals and families with connecting to shelter, laundry and shower facilities, housing resources, and other services offered. You interact with the guests at the facility and talk with them about their housing goals. You contribute to creating a safe, stable, supportive, and sanitary environment. This position requires an ability to be accepting and compassionate toward people who are living in trauma and may behave in ways that are hard to be around.

You demonstrate high quality customer service and empathy while working with diverse staff, guests, and community partners.

• Monitors guest interactions and behaviors, intervening as needed to maintain a safe, stable, and supportive environment. Provides guidance and reminders to the guests to aid them with adhering to the policies of the facility.
• Regularly walks throughout the building and the perimeter of the facility to monitor for safety and security checks. Engages with the guests as needed and intervenes in disruptive incidents as they arise. Intervenes and de‑escalates situations that would lead to dangerous behavior. Recommends or initiates other, non‑physical, measures to redirect behavior.
• Communicates with on‑call supervisor, as needed and required, for assistance, direction, and to report incidents, according to policy.
• Provides services consistent with a person‑centered, strength‑based, low barrier, harm reduction, Housing First program foundation. Focuses on the underlying needs of the guests rather than the maladaptive behaviors they may be exhibiting to get those needs met.
• Learns about and maintains knowledge about substance use and the effects of various substances. Seeks out information and training on up‑to‑date best practices on harm reduction interventions. Learns the signs of an overdose and administers Narcan/Naloxone as appropriate for opioid overdoses.

• Minimum of one (1) year of experience working in a position related to homelessness, social services, hospitality, mental health, substance use, or similar areas.
• Strongly desired – Candidates with lived/personal experience with homelessness.

• Candidates must be at least 21 years old.
• Must have ability to work a flexible schedule, including weekends (facility is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week).
• Strongly desired – Candidates that speak and/or are fluent in Spanish or American Sign Language (ASL).

• May work across all agency programs as needed.
• Occasional flexible work schedule required to meet individual client needs.
• Must possess a valid CA Driver’s License, current auto insurance, and a clean DMV printout (no more than 3 points).
• Must pass a clear background check with DOJ & FBI.
• CPR and First Aid Certified.
• TB Exam and Physical at the time of employment.

• Preferred – Training in harm reduction, Housing First, trauma‑informed, low barrier service models.
• RCS provides an in-depth onboarding and training orientation, which includes CPR/First Aid, Crisis Communication/Pro‑ACT, Trauma‑Informed Care, Motivational Interviewing, Collaborative Problem Solving, introductions to all RCS departments, and other valuable trainings.

• Comprehensive benefits package available.

Please visit our website at Redwood Community Services to apply or learn more about our values and services.

Redwood Community Services, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity at all levels of its workforce.