Resident Peer Support Specialist – Shelter Based

POSITION TITLE: Resident Peer Support Specialist – Shelter Based 

REPORTS TO: Team Lead

FLSA CLASSIFICATION: Non-Exempt 

POSITIONS SUPERVISED: None

POSITION OVERVIEW:

The Resident Peer Support Specialist – Shelter Based is a live-in position that combines peer support and light operational responsibilities within a shelter-based environment. This role utilizes lived experience to support community and engagement while assisting with cleaning, laundry, and maintaining shared spaces. The position helps create a safe, respectful, and welcoming environment that promotes dignity, accountability, and shared responsibility.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Service Delivery

• Assist with maintaining a clean and organized environment, including: 
• Laundry operations (linens, towels, resident support as needed) 
• Cleaning of common areas (kitchen, restrooms, shared spaces) 
• Support daily routines and expectations that contribute to a safe and structured environment 
• Encourage shared responsibility among residents for maintaining community spaces 

Care Coordination & Collaboration

• Work collaboratively with shelter staff to support daily operations and needs 
• Communicate concerns, maintenance needs, or resident issues to staff in a timely manner 

Monitoring Progress & Responding to Client Needs

• Observe resident interactions and overall environment, reporting concerns or changes to staff 
• Provide informal support and encouragement to residents during day-to-day interactions 
• Model appropriate responses to challenges and encourage use of coping strategies 

Client Engagement & Support

• Promote a sense of community, belonging, and mutual respect within the shelter 
• Encourage positive engagement in routines, responsibilities, and shared living expectations 

Documentation & Compliance

• Complete basic task tracking or checklists related to cleaning, laundry, and assigned duties 
• Follow all shelter policies, expectations, and staff guidance; participate in required trainings
• Maintain appropriate boundaries and confidentiality as a staff member
• Other duties as assigned

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:

• Must self-identify as an individual with lived experience in recovery
• Basic understanding of cleaning, laundry, and facility upkeep preferred
• Ability to follow direction, complete assigned tasks, and work independently
• Must be reliable and able to maintain professional boundaries in a live-in setting

Driver Level: Level 3, occasional or infrequent driving for meetings, training, or non-routine sites.

Position Flexibility: This is an onsite position with no regular remote work option. 

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Standing for extended periods of time
• Lifting/carrying thirty to fifty (30-50) pounds
• Climbing, bending, stooping, reaching, 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.