Peer Outreach Worker

Good Shepherd Services; New York (NY); On-site; USD 43,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

Good Shepherd Services is seeking a Peer Outreach Worker to engage with homeless and at-risk youth in New York City. This role involves street outreach, case management, and providing essential resources to support youth in need. The ideal candidate will have relevant experience and a commitment to youth development, fostering trust with the community served.

Qualifications

• At least 2 years of experience working with homeless or runaway youth.
• Bilingual in English/Spanish preferred.
• Valid driver’s license required.

Responsibilities

• Conduct street outreach to identify homeless and at-risk youth.
• Build rapport with youth using engagement techniques.
• Document all contacts and efforts accurately.

Skills

Communication

Relationship Building

Crisis Intervention

Education

High school diploma

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Join to apply for the Peer Outreach Worker role at Good Shepherd Services.

As a member of the SOP, the Peer Outreach Worker must be a driven and creative individual. The role involves street outreach, providing on-the-spot referrals, and supporting youth and young adults who are homeless, runaway, or at high risk of homelessness. The focus is on case management, shelter, meals, employment, and health services. Candidates with lived experience of homelessness or housing insecurity are preferred to foster trust and connection with the youth served.

Reports to: Program Director

Locations: NYC/City Wide (Mobile Van) – Positions based between Harlem & Brooklyn. Must be flexible with travel.

Hours: 35 hours/week, Non-Exempt

Salary: $43K-$48K annually, based on relevant experience

Major Duties

1. Conduct street outreach to identify homeless, runaway, and at-risk youth in NYC's five boroughs, working in teams of two or more.
2. Build rapport with youth using engagement techniques.
3. Interact appropriately and ethically with youth, adhering to agency guidelines.
4. Screen for basic needs and provide resources, referrals, and assistance in locating housing.
5. Offer crisis intervention, psychoeducation, and prevention services.
6. Establish networks with other outreach programs and drop-in centers.
7. Document all contacts and efforts accurately.
8. Respond to Fair Hearing requests.
9. Perform additional duties as assigned.
10. Maintain communication with the Program Director for accountability and guidance.
11. Attend staff and external meetings as required.

Qualifications

1. High school diploma required.
2. At least 2 years of experience working with homeless or runaway youth, with street outreach experience preferred.
3. Lived experience related to homelessness or housing insecurity is a plus.
4. Bilingual in English/Spanish preferred.
5. Ability to establish supportive relationships with youth.
6. Valid driver’s license required.
7. Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
8. Availability to work evenings and weekends.
9. Ability to use public transportation across NYC.
10. Commitment to youth development and strength-based approaches.
11. Proficiency in computer systems, databases, and Microsoft Office.

Good Shepherd Services values diversity, equity, and inclusion. We are an equal opportunity employer committed to creating an accessible environment for all employees and applicants, including providing accommodations for disabilities upon request.