The Supportive Housing Services (SHS) Traditional Health Worker (THW)/Peer Support Specialist provides non-clinical, recovery-oriented peer support services to residents of The NEL, a Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) program operating under a Housing First model.This role uses lived experience, mutuality, and relationship-based engagement to support individuals with mental health and/or substance use challenges in achieving and maintaining stable housing. The THW works collaboratively with case managers, care coordinators, property management, and community providers to promote housing stability, self-determination, and recovery. This position does not provide clinical services or primary case management, but partners closely with those roles.Essential Job FunctionsPeer Support & EngagementUse lived experience to build trusting, supportive relationships with residentsProvide recovery-oriented, person-centered peer support grounded in mutuality and respectSupport residents in identifying personal goals related to housing stability, wellness, and community integrationPromote self-advocacy, choice, and empowermentHousing Stability SupportAssist participants in navigating housing systems, including completing applications for supportive or subsidized housingSupport residents in understanding lease agreements, tenant rights, and responsibilitiesServe as a liaison between residents, property management, and service teams to support successful tenancyProvide coaching and reinforcement of independent living strategies that support housing retentionSkill Building Support (Non-Clinical)Support (not provide formal training in) development of daily living skills such as:Financial organizationMedication routine adherence (non-clinical support only)Household managementModel problem-solving and coping strategies in real-life settingsCare Coordination SupportCollaborate with case managers and care teams to share observations and advocate for participant needsParticipate in team meetings and coordinated care discussionsSupport referrals and connections to community-based resourcesDocumentation & ComplianceComplete timely, accurate documentation in the electronic health record (EHR), including:Service notesParticipant progress updatesRequired assessments (as applicable to role scope)Ensure all services are documented in accordance with agency, SHS, and Medicaid/CCO requirementsCommunity & Group EngagementFacilitate peer-led or peer-supported groups and activitiesProvide regular check-ins and face-to-face engagement with residentsContribute to development of supportive programming within The NELOther Job FunctionsSupport team with referrals and resource navigationIdentify and maintain knowledge of local community resourcesCollaborate with internal and external partners, including family/support systems (as appropriate)Participate in staff meetings and required trainingsPerform other duties as assignedRequirementsMINIMUM KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, & ABILITIESAbility to provide ethical, recovery-oriented, non-clinical peer supportDemonstrated ability to engage individuals experiencing mental health symptoms, substance use, and/or housing instabilityStrong interpersonal and communication skills (in-person and phone)Ability to maintain professional boundaries while using lived experience appropriatelyAbility to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary teamBasic computer proficiency and ability to utilize EHR systemsAbility to manage time, documentation, and competing prioritiesKnowledge of trauma-informed care and harm reduction principles preferredUnderstanding of HIPAA and confidentiality requirementsAbility to work respectfully and effectively with individuals of diverse backgrounds, including differences in race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, disability, and lived experiencePhysical RequirementsAbility to perform essential job functions, including walking, sitting, standing, bending, and occasional lifting up to 25 lbsAbility to work in a residential environment with varying conditionsMinimum RequirementsMust meet one of the following:Current registration with the Oregon Traditional Health Worker (THW) Registry (Peer Support Specialist, Peer Wellness Specialist, or Community Health Worker), ORAbility to obtain THW certification within 12 months of hire, ORLived experience of mental health, substance use, and/or housing instability, plus at least 2 years of related work, education, or volunteer experience, with a commitment to pursue certificationValid Oregon driver's license (if driving is required)Ability to pass background check per agency and funder requirementsDrug-free Workplace RequirementsThis position is subject to drug testing requirements due to contractual and funding obligations. While marijuana is legal under Oregon law, this role requires compliance with federal and/or funding-based drug-free workplace standards, which includes a THC screening. Failure to meet or maintain these requirements may impact employment eligibility.#J-18808-Ljbffr