Certified Peer Specialist, Next Step ACE Program

PROJECT RENEWAL
POSITION AVAILABLE

CERTIFIED PEER SPECIALIST, ACE/NEXT STEP PROGRAM

Next Step ACE is an Assisted Competitive Employment program for individuals with serious mental illness who seek meaningful jobs in the competitive employment market. The Certified Peer Specialist will perform direct service work, as well as complete all necessary supporting documentation. The ACE program provides end-to-end employment-related services, including one-on-one vocational training, job placement, work-related retention/support and individual counseling. The ACE program will be expanding its service model this year to incorporate the vocational services and peer supports outlined under the new Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) designated by Medicaid Managed Care. The Certified Peer Specialist will play a key role in fulfilling the peer support HCBS components.

ACE is part of Project Renewal’s Next Step employment program, which includes job placement and training services, adult basic education, computer classes and job retention counseling. The ACE program, while operating independently from these services, is closely integrated with these programs. Reporting to the Coordinator of Next Step ACE, the Certified Peer Specialist duties include, but are not limited to:
- Meet with clients to provide support including assistance in addressing their barriers to
employment, possible effects of their disabilities on gaining and keeping employment,
previous on-the-job experiences including successes and difficulties, etc.
-Assist clients in preparing for job interviews including discussing forensic backgrounds,
gaps in employment, issues of disclosure etc.
-Provide job retention support to employed clients
-Participation in staff meetings and supervision with Coordinator.
- Complete all required client documentation and input client information into database.
- Provide HCBS peer support services such as Advocacy, Self-help Tools, Transitional & Crisis
support.
- Outreach to various agencies, hospitals, residences in the five boroughs to present
Next Step ACE services to staff and clients.

Qualifications

NYS Peer Academy Certification. High school diploma/equivalency. Bilingual Spanish
preferred. Previous experience in vocational counseling and/or working with individuals with
serious mental illness or other under served populations is required. Strong computer skills.
Knowledge of Windows 10 and Microsoft Office.

To apply: e-mail resume and cover letter indicating position and salary requirements to:
careers@projectrenewal.org EOE.