Peer Navigator

Description

Osborne Association serves individuals, families, and communities affected by the criminal justice system. Through our programs, we offer opportunities for people to heal from and repair harm, restore their lives, and thrive. We challenge systems rooted in racism and retribution and fight for policies and practices that promote true safety, justice, and liberation. 

At Osborne, we are guided by core values and shared beliefs. We honor everyone's capacity to change, celebrate our shared humanity, are united in our pursuit of justice and equity, take all possible steps to keep our commitments, and advocate for people and principles with fierce and tenacious determination.

We are seeking a Peer Navigator. The Peer Navigator plays a crucial role in providing immediate assistance and resources to individuals who face misdemeanor charges, are eligible for a Desk Appearance Ticket (DAT), and have no victims or indications of violence. This role aims to connect with individuals at a critical juncture, delivering practical services and compassionate support to steer them away from the criminal justice system before arraignment.

Located within the 44th  police precinct, the Peer Navigator interacts with individuals immediately after obtaining DAT paperwork. Addressing their immediate needs and linking them with supportive services, the Peer Navigator promotes stability and diminishes the chances of future involvement with the legal system.

This position is a two-year contract. It is located inside the 44th precinct in the Bronx, and the hours are from 4 pm to 12 am on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and Mondays.

Salary: $27.47/HR

Requirements

Essential Duties:

• Meet with individuals charged with DAT-eligible offenses inside the police precinct immediately after they receive their DAT paperwork.
• Engage potential participants and quickly build trust in order to offer and provide services.
• Provide a welcoming, non-judgmental, and empathetic approach to build trust and encourage participation in the diversion program.
• Complete a needs assessment with the participant.
• Present a menu of services and items tailored to address the individual’s urgent needs
• Provide emotional support and conduct therapeutic conversations, fostering a sense of stability.
• Act as a liaison between the individual, service providers, and community resources to ensure follow-through and accessibility.
• Coordinate with NYPD, service providers, and the District Attorney’s Office to facilitate the diversion process.
• Enter data immediately after service provision in order to notify the DA’s Office upon engagement, ensuring charges are dismissed.
• Maintain accurate and confidential records of all interactions and services provided.
• Document outcomes and follow-up actions for program reporting and evaluation.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Lived experience with the legal system, homelessness, substance use, or mental health challenges preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to build rapport with individuals in crisis and navigate sensitive situations.
• Knowledge of community resources and social service systems in New York City.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, including active listening and empathy.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism in a law enforcement environment.
• Cultural competency and the ability to work with diverse populations.
• A high school diploma or equivalent is required; relevant certifications or training (e.g., harm reduction, peer counseling) are preferred.
• Experience providing peer support or working in harm reduction, mental health, or social services.
• Knowledge of naloxone administration and overdose prevention techniques.
• Familiarity with criminal justice diversion programs or alternatives to incarceration.
• Bilingual or multilingual skills preferred.

Key Competencies:

• Demonstrates care and understanding for those facing challenges, providing non-judgmental support during vulnerable moments.
• Leverages personal experience with justice, homelessness, and mental health to build trust.
• Inspires and empowers others while maintaining boundaries.
• Actively listens, ensuring individuals feel understood.
• Flexibility to adapt to the individual participant and the circumstances. For instance, providing services while walking someone to the subway from the precinct when needed.
• Communicates effectively with diverse audiences such as law enforcement and service providers.
• Clearly explain the program's benefits for encouraging engagement.
• Ability to remain calm under pressure and effectively address crises.
• Utilizes trauma-informed strategies to de-escalate situations.
• Treat all clients regardless of background with fairness, dignity and understanding. Respects cultural and socioeconomic diversity.
• Tailor's services to meet individuals' needs.
• Knowledgeable of local community services, connecting individuals to resources.
• Advocates for rights within the system, encouraging self-advocacy for stability.
• Maintains strict confidentiality and upholds ethical standards.
• Thrives in dynamic environments and adapts to changing priorities.
• Collaborates with law enforcement and stakeholders.
• Keeps accurate records of interactions and outcomes, balancing responsibilities and meeting deadlines.
• Identifies and addresses barriers to participation or access, developing creative solutions for immediate needs.

Benefits of Working at Osborne

Generous benefits include four weeks of vacation, tuition reimbursement, a flexible work schedule, excellent Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance, and a 403(b) plan with a company match. Career development through ongoing training and individual development plans.

The Osborne Association is an EEO/Affirmative Action employer and a VEVRAA Federal Contractor. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, unemployment status, or any other protected category. The Osborne Association takes affirmative action in support of its policy to advance in employment individuals who are minorities, women, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities.

Thank you for your interest in the Osborne Association. Be sure to include a cover letter with your application. No phone calls please. We wish we could personally respond to each application. However, we are unable to do so due to the volume of interest received.

** Salary is based on commensurate experience and other qualifications.

Salary : $27