Certified Peer Specialist - Shelter Based

Mental Health Association of South Central Kansas; Wichita (KS); On-site; USD 40,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

Mental Health Association of South Central Kansas is seeking a Certified Peer Specialist for a community-based position in Wichita, Kansas. This role involves providing peer support, mentorship, and encouragement to residents in a shelter-based environment. Responsibilities include facilitating group interactions, monitoring progress, and maintaining documentation. A high school diploma is required, along with proficiency in electronic health records. The position is primarily field-based, requiring a valid driver's license and reliable transportation.

Qualifications

• Proficiency in basic computer systems and electronic health record systems.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism in all interactions.
• Strong service delivery, communication, and organizational skills.

Responsibilities

• Provide peer support services aligned with resident goals and recovery plans.
• Support residents in developing skills related to daily living and community integration.
• Build authentic relationships with residents using a person-centered, recovery-oriented approach.

Skills

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Service delivery

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

POSITION TITLE

Certified Peer Specialist – Shelter Based

REPORTS TO

Coordinator

FLSA CLASSIFICATION

Non-Exempt

POSITIONS SUPERVISED

None

POSITION OVERVIEW

The Certified Peer Specialist utilizes lived experience in recovery to provide support, mentorship, and encouragement to residents within a shelter‑based environment. This role helps residents build skills, increase independence, and take an active role in their recovery by modeling coping strategies, promoting self‑advocacy, and supporting engagement in services. The Peer Specialist contributes to a welcoming, respectful environment that fosters hope, dignity, and connection.

ESSENTIAL POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES

Service Delivery

• Provide peer support services in a shelter-based environment, aligned with resident goals and recovery plans
• Share lived experience appropriately to model recovery, coping skills, and self‑management strategies
• Support residents in developing skills related to daily living, decision‑making, and community integration
• Facilitate or support group and individual peer interactions that encourage recovery and connection

Care Coordination & Collaboration

• Collaborate with Team Leads, Behavioral Health staff, and Case Managers to support resident goals
• Communicate relevant updates regarding resident engagement, needs, and progress
• Support connection to internal services and community resources as appropriate
• Participate in team meetings, shift communication, and supervision

Monitoring Progress & Responding to Client Needs

• Observe resident engagement, behaviors, and recovery progress within the shelter‑based environment
• Identify changes in needs or concerns and communicate with team members or supervisors
• Provide support during challenging situations using learned coping and de‑escalation strategies
• Encourage use of wellness and recovery plans (e.g., coping strategies, WRAP principles)

Client Engagement & Support

• Build authentic, respectful relationships with residents using a person‑centered, recovery‑oriented approach
• Encourage participation in services, routines, and goal‑setting activities
• Promote self‑advocacy, independence, and informed decision‑making
• Foster a welcoming and supportive shelter environment that enhances the overall resident experience

Documentation & Compliance

• Complete accurate, timely documentation of peer services in accordance with agency standards
• Maintain required logs, notes, and communication records
• Meet productivity expectations and submit documentation within required timeframes
• Complete required trainings and maintain peer certification standards

ORGANIZATION STANDARDS

Professionalism and Communication

Demonstrates clear, respectful, and professional communication in both verbal and written interactions, with a focus on collaboration and solution‑oriented dialogue. Shares information responsibly and addresses concerns constructively while maintaining a positive, professional demeanor—even in challenging situations.

Time & Priority Management

Effectively manages workload by prioritizing tasks, planning proactively, and addressing challenges to meet deadlines and responsibilities. Maintains a solution‑focused approach and professional composure while balancing competing priorities.

Reliability & Accountability & Ownership

Demonstrates dependability by consistently meeting commitments, deadlines, and responsibilities while taking ownership of work and outcomes. Acts with integrity, follows through on obligations, and addresses mistakes proactively to support a culture of accountability and trust.

Adaptability and Change Agility

Demonstrates adaptability by embracing new processes, priorities, and organizational changes with resilience and a willingness to learn. Adjusts work approaches as needed and supports others through change with a constructive, solution‑focused mindset.

Organizational Alignment and Mission Focus

Demonstrates behaviors aligned with the organization’s mission, values, and professional standards while supporting goals and initiatives through actions and attitude. Consistently follows policies and ethical guidelines, maintains confidentiality, and contributes to a culture of professionalism, respect, and service.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS

• High school diploma or equivalent required. Previous experience in relevant role preferred.
• Proficiency in basic computer systems and software programs including electronic health record systems.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism in all interactions
• Strong service delivery, communication, and organizational skills
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and work in a fast‑paced environment

Driver Level

Level 1, valid driver's license, reliable transportation, insurance and clean MVR required

Position Flexibility

This position is primarily community‑based, with most work conducted in the field with clients. Required office‑based tasks must be completed onsite; limited remote work flexibility may be available in accordance with HR approved department standards.

REQUIREMENTS

• Driving for community‑based services
• Sitting for extended periods of time.
• Lifting/carrying up to thirty (30) pounds
• Climb, Bending, Stooping, Balancing

All the above duties and responsibilities are considered essential job functions subject to reasonable accommodation. All job requirements listed indicate the minimum level of knowledge, skills and/or ability deemed necessary to perform the job proficiently. This job description is not to be construed as a detailed statement of duties, responsibilities or requirements. Employees may be required to perform any other job‑related instructions as requested by their supervisors, subject to reasonable accommodation.

EEO race, color, religion, sex, parental status, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, political affiliation, military service, or other non‑merit based factors.