VST-LA Peer Support Squad Leader

Peer Support Squad Leader

Full Time - In-office 

Hourly Rate:
$27 - $28.50 DOE

Position Overview:

The Peer Support Squad Leader will provide direct supervision and leadership to a team of Peer Support / Battle Buddies, ensuring that services are effectively delivered to Veterans and Military Families (MilFam). This role is key to maintaining high standards of service, mentorship, and peer support, while also supporting the coordination of outreach and program activities. The Squad Leader will serve as a liaison between the Peer Support team and management, ensuring that team members are empowered, trained, and supported to meet the needs of the Veterans they serve.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Team Leadership and Supervision:
   • Supervise and support a team of Peer Support / Battle Buddies to ensure that services are delivered efficiently and effectively to Veterans and MilFam.
   • Provide mentorship and guidance to Peer Support / Battle Buddies, helping them navigate challenges and ensuring they stay motivated and focused on their duties.
   • Conduct regular team meetings to discuss goals, performance, issues, and successes.
   • Monitor team progress and provide ongoing feedback to ensure that quality standards are met.
2. Service Delivery Coordination:
   • Assist in coordinating the delivery of services to Veterans, ensuring that they receive the necessary resources, referrals, and support.
   • Ensure that Peer Support / Battle Buddies conduct appropriate outreach, assess needs, and provide services in a timely manner.
   • Oversee the proper documentation of services provided, case notes, and client records, maintaining compliance with confidentiality and data security standards (HIPAA).
3. Training and Development:
   • Provide ongoing training and support to Peer Support / Battle Buddies, ensuring they are well-prepared to deliver high-quality services to Veterans.
   • Facilitate skill development in areas such as crisis management, resource navigation, peer mentoring, and cultural competency.
   • Conduct regular performance evaluations and assist in identifying areas for improvement.
4. Outreach and Engagement:
   • Lead and participate in outreach events, ensuring that all team members are actively engaging with the community and identifying new Veterans who may benefit from services.
   • Build and maintain relationships with community partners, employers, and organizations that support Veterans, ensuring that services are well-integrated within the community.
   • Coordinate with external partners to secure additional resources and opportunities for Veterans.
5. Monitoring and Reporting:
   • Track team members’ caseloads, ensuring they are meeting performance metrics and service goals.
   • Collect and report data on outreach efforts, client engagement, and service outcomes, providing regular reports to management.
   • Ensure that team members maintain accurate and complete case documentation for reporting purposes.
6. Problem Solving and Conflict Resolution:
   • Address and resolve issues within the team and with clients, ensuring that problems are handled promptly and professionally.
   • Serve as the primary point of contact for team members when they encounter challenges with their clients or workload.
   • Provide support in de-escalating conflicts and ensuring a positive and productive team environment.
7. Collaboration and Communication:
   • Act as a liaison between the Peer Support team and management, ensuring clear communication of goals, challenges, and successes.
   • Collaborate with other departments and external partners to ensure Veterans’ needs are fully met and services are delivered seamlessly.
   • Share relevant updates, best practices, and resource information with the team to ensure continuous improvement.

Skills and Abilities:

• Leadership: Strong leadership skills with the ability to guide, motivate, and develop a team.
• Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to effectively interact with Veterans, team members, and external partners.
• Problem Solving: Ability to identify challenges, find solutions, and implement effective strategies for overcoming obstacles.
• Organizational Skills: Strong organizational skills to manage team schedules, workloads, and reporting.
• Conflict Resolution: Skilled in de-escalating conflicts and resolving issues in a professional and constructive manner.
• Technical Proficiency: Proficient in Microsoft Office applications and client management systems (e.g., HMIS).
• Cultural Competency: Deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by Veterans and Military Families and the ability to work in a culturally sensitive manner.

Qualifications:

• Eligibility: U.S. military Veteran or spouse of a U.S. Armed Forces member preferred.
• Experience:
  • Minimum of 3 years of experience in peer support, case management, or related services.
  • Experience in a supervisory or leadership role is preferred.
• Certifications:
  • CalMHSA Peer Support Specialist Certification or willingness to complete within 6 months.
  • HIPAA Compliance Certification preferred or to be completed within 90 days of hire.
• Education:
  • High school diploma or equivalent required; associate or bachelor’s degree in a related field preferred.

Additional Requirements:

• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation for outreach and community engagement activities.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, as needed to accommodate program needs.

Training and Development:

1. Mandatory Trainings:
   • HIPAA Compliance Training to ensure the confidentiality of client information.
   • CalMHSA Certification to meet peer support standards.
   • Trauma-Informed Care and Psychological First Aid training for effective client support.
2. Ongoing Professional Development:
   • Regular participation in team meetings and workshops to stay updated on best practices.

Continuous improvement through advanced training programs and certification renewals.

Salary : $27 - $29