Peer Specialist

Department:                                 Sheriff - Detention

Position Control Number:          0418-004

FLSA Status:                                  Non-Exempt; position is eligible for overtime

Safety Sensitive Designation:    This position is designated as safety-sensitive.

Random Drug/Alcohol Test:       Yes

Opening Date:                               January 08, 2024                   

Closing Date:                                 January 14, 2025  at 11:59 PM

This job description should not be interpreted as all-inclusive.  It is intended to identify the essential functions and minimum qualifications of this job.  The incumbent(s) may be required to perform job-related responsibilities and tasks other than those stated in this job description.  Nothing in this job description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign job-related responsibilities and tasks to this job at any time.  Certain functions are understood to be essential; these include, but are not limited to, attendance, getting along with others, working a full shift, and dealing with and working under stress.  Any essential function of this class will be evaluated as necessary should an incumbent/applicant be unable to perform the function or requirement due to a disability as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).  Reasonable accommodation for the specific disability will be made for the incumbent/applicant only to the extent medically and reasonably feasible.

An Equal Opportunity Employer

JOB SUMMARY:  Provides assistance, coordination, and staff support between Pulaski County and local service-providing agencies regarding ex-offenders returning to the community from Pulaski County Regional Detention Facility.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Assists inmates in setting recovery goals and action plans.
• Provides emotional, informational, instrumental, and affiliation support services to inmates.
• Aids inmates in problem-solving by connecting to resources related to recovery, sober living facilities, promoting new social skills, and enhancing job skills.
• Provides inmates assistance with collateral issues including criminal justice and/or coexisting physical or mental challenges.
• Encourages education and employment advancement and assist with addicted related problem-solving.
• Teaches core recovery values; tolerance, acceptance, and gratitude.
• Teaches and demonstrate appropriate self-expression and self-reflection.
• Acts as a coach and mentor, and help clients to set goals and work toward developing skills.
• Assists individuals in developing natural support; socialization/integration skills training.
• Conducts job-related training; interviewing skills, preparing resumes, etc.
• Supports and encourages inmates through one-on-one and group meetings; share and discuss common experiences.
• Teaches self-management skills to enhance overall independence.
• Conducts interviews with inmates to verify qualifications of State requirements.
• Develops and maintains collaborative relationships with local and state corrections agencies, faith and community agencies, and businesses to link ex-offenders to workforce resources, employment training, support services, and employment opportunities in cooperation with the re-entry partnership and network.
• Operates a computer, utilizing a database, spreadsheet, Data Assessment Plan (DAP), progress notes, survey, and software to prepare a variety of reports, correspondence, and other documents.
• Requests appointments and applications for Medicare, Medicaid, veteran benefits, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), housing, and court dates.
• Conducts a Wellness Recovery Action Plan.

SECONDARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Performs other related duties as required.

PERSONNEL SUPERVISED:  None

WORKING CONDITIONS:  Work is performed in a smoking-restricted office environment.  Movement within the Detention Facility may be required.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

REQUIRED SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE, AND ABILITIES:

• • Considerable Knowledge of standard office practices and procedures.
  • Considerable Knowledge of computer fundamentals and business software.
  • Considerable knowledge of interviewing, psychological addiction recovery, and counseling methods and techniques.
  • Ability to organize and direct the activities of groups of people.
  • Ability to work with diverse groups.
  • Ability to attend work regularly and reliably. 
  • Skill in the operation of a computer utilizing databases, spreadsheets, and reports.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• • Visual acuity is needed for use of the computer monitor.
  • Digital dexterity is needed for the use of a keyboard.
  • Ability to work in a constant state of alertness and in a safe manner. 
  • Ability to concentrate for long periods of time. 
  • Ability to communicate effectively, both orally, with individuals and groups, and in writing.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

Completion of high school or GED equivalency; considerable experience working with community organizations, social work agencies, or a related field; or any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the required skills, knowledge, and abilities.