Peer Support Specialist I

Paycom - ATS; Victorville (CA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

Paycom - ATS is hiring a Peer Support Specialist to assist Wellness Center participants with emotional support, mentorship, and daily program operations. Duties include safety checks, crisis response, intake support, and maintaining hygiene in shared spaces.

The role emphasizes recovery, stability, and independent living, with a focus on HIPAA-compliant confidentiality and respectful engagement with participants and staff alike.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Experience supporting individuals facing mental health challenges, housing instability, or homelessness preferred.
• Valid California driver's license required; BLS certification preferred.

Responsibilities

• Ensure participant safety through on-site supervision and wellness checks.
• Enforce program rules and handle behavioral issues appropriately.
• Assist with intake, sanitation, and bed assignments.
• Distribute supplies and perform routine janitorial tasks.
• Conduct COVID symptom screenings and respond to emergencies.
• Support de-escalation and crisis resolution for distressed participants.
• Collaborate with on-site security and monitor activity.
• Complete incident logs and HMIS documentation; assist with reports.
• Attend trainings, team meetings, and house gatherings; plan life skills workshops.

Skills

Crisis de-escalation

Trauma-informed care

HIPAA compliance

Communication

Empathy

Documentation

Team collaboration

Reliability

Adaptability

Local housing resources

Shelter policies

Boundaries

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Job description

Job SummaryThe Peer Support Specialist plays a vital role in supporting Wellness Center participants by providing emotional support, mentorship, and hands-on assistance with daily program operations. This includes responding to emergencies, assisting with meal service, conducting wellness checks, and maintaining safety and cleanliness of the facility. The role is key to fostering a compassionate and structured environment focused on recovery, stability, and independent living.Essential Duties & ResponsibilitiesEnsure participant safety through on-site supervision and regular wellness checksEnforce program rules and policies, and respond appropriately to behavioral issuesAssist with intake, including sanitation of belongings and bed assignmentsDistribute essential supplies (bedding, clothing, hygiene items)Conduct COVID symptom screeningsRespond to emergency situations and coordinate with emergency services as neededSupport de-escalation and crisis resolution for participants in distressCollaborate with on-site security to monitor activity and manage incidentsPerform regular janitorial tasks (restrooms, common areas, hygiene trailers)Replenish restrooms and dining area supplies, monitor laundry schedulesPromote hygiene practices and independent living skillsPack and store participant belongings as neededAnswer phones, take messages, and assist with daily communicationsComplete incident logs, HMIS documentation, and written reportsMonitor medication cabinet and review logsAttend trainings, team meetings, and house meetingsAssist in planning and facilitating life skills workshops and engagement eventsMaintain professional boundaries and confidentiality per HIPAA standardsEducation & ExperienceHigh School Diploma or equivalent requiredPersonal or professional experience supporting individuals experiencing mental health challenges, housing instability, or homelessness is preferredExperience supporting vulnerable populations is strongly preferredValid CA driver’s license requiredBLS certification preferredKnowledge & SkillsCrisis de-escalation and trauma-informed care practicesFamiliarity with shelter and housing policies and barriersUnderstanding of confidentiality, HIPAA, and client boundariesCommunication, empathy, and documentation proficiencyTeam collaboration, reliability, and adaptabilityKnowledge of local housing, social, and health resourcesWork Environment & Physical RequirementsWork is performed in both indoor and outdoor settings and requires regular walking, standing, and active engagement with participants.Must be able to safely lift, carry, push, and/or pull up to 50 pounds.Requires the ability to respond promptly and appropriately to participant needs, including potential crisis or emergency situations.May occasionally work in varying weather conditions and community-based environments.