Peer Support Specialist (20 Hours)

Open-Sky-Community-Services; Worcester (MA); On-site; USD 25,000 - 36,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Excellent supervision

Generous paid time off

Tuition reimbursement

Health, dental, vision insurance

403b retirement plan

Life insurance

Job summary

Open Sky Community Services is seeking an ASD Peer Support Specialist to assist individuals with ASD in developing skills for independent living within the community. The role emphasizes using personal ASD experience to guide peers toward supportive resources and meaningful daily activities.

The position requires a High School Diploma or GED, a valid driver’s license, and a commitment to reliability and ongoing learning in a trauma-informed, inclusive work environment.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Valid Driver’s License and reliable transportation.
• Personal living experience with ASD.
• Reliability and willingness to learn.

Responsibilities

• Assist peers in using strengths to develop, implement, and monitor interventions and goals.
• Conduct 1:1 and group activities to increase community engagement.
• Facilitate development of valued community roles and employment or volunteering.
• Support stress management, advocacy, decision making, and goal planning.

Skills

ASD lived experience

Interpersonal skills

Reliability

Willingness to learn

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Job description

Job Description:The DD Division is committed to helping people maintain their independence in the community – to live a life that isn’t defined by their ASD diagnosis. We meet individuals where they are at; in settings and spaces where they feel safe and comfortable. ASD Clinical Services Team is a group of human services professionals that provides treatment of adults with an ASD diagnosis. The goal of the program is to work collaboratively with individuals in developing skills that allow them to live independently and successfully in the community. This program is funded by the Department of Developmental Services.ASD Peer Support Specialists have personal experience living with ASD and are able to use their own experiences to support others who are diagnosed with ASD in identifying and engaging with supports, resources, and communities that align with their vision for their life. This position requires additional training, support, and supervision specific to providing peer support services in alignment with a code of ethics.Other key responsibilities:Assist peers in using identified strengths and interests to develop, implement, and monitor interventions and personal goals. Assist peers in identifying individual strengths and interests.Conduct both 1:1 and group activities geared toward increasing people’s readiness to engage in their local community and or beneficial services.Facilitate and encourage the development of valued community roles, including group memberships, employment, or volunteer experiences.Support the development and maintenance of key skills, including stress management, advocacy, decision making, and goal planning.QualificationsHigh School Diploma, GED or equivalent, required.Valid Driver’s License, reliable transportation and acceptable driving record.Reliability, willingness to learn, and being open to new opportunities.Personal living experience with ASD.Pay Range:22.07 - 22.07About Us:At Open Sky Community Services, we open our doors, hearts, and minds to the belief that every individual, regardless of perceived limitations, deserves the chance to live a productive and fulfilling life.Open Sky is on an anti-racist journey, committed to learning, living, and breathing inclusion, opportunity, diversity, racial equity, and justice for ALL.At Open Sky, you’ll join over 1,300 compassionate and highly trained professionals who put innovative, evidence-based practices to work in ways that positively impact our communities across Central Massachusetts and beyond.As a trauma-informed organization, Open Sky strives for transparency and sensitivity to the experiences of those we interact with. Self-care is encouraged, and we are committed to providing a positive work culture that is focused on continuous learning and the value of diverse perspectives.Open Sky is proud to be an industry leader in pay and benefits. Open the Door to Possibility and begin your career with Open Sky today!Benefits of Working for Open Sky Include:Excellent Supervision (Individual and Group), Professional Development, and Training OpportunitiesGenerous paid time off plan – you start with 29 days (almost 6 weeks!) in your first year, including 12 paid holidays. Increases to 32 days in your 2nd year, and the current maximum is 43 days (OVER 8 WEEKS!)We pay for your higher education! Ask about our Tuition Reimbursement Program, and reimbursement for a variety of Human Services certifications.Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance with Prescription Plan403b Retirement Plan with Employer MatchLife Insurance (100% Employer-Paid)Eligible employer for the Public Student Loan Forgiveness ProgramAnd more!Open Sky celebrates diversity and is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with federal and state employment opportunity laws, qualified applicants are considered for all positions without regard to race, gender, national origin, religion, age, sexual orientation, disability, veteran, or disabled Veteran status.