Peer Advocate - P/T Afternoons M-F 3pm-7pm

Job description

We are seeking a passionate and dedicated Peer Advocate to join our mental health services team in Long Beach, CA. This position is Part-Time afternoon (20 hours/week) Monday – Friday | 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM. This position is designed to provide peer-based support to individuals living with mental health challenges, co-occurring disorders, and/or histories of homelessness during high-need afternoon and evening hours. As a Peer Advocate, you will draw upon your own lived experience with mental health recovery to inspire hope, build connection, and support clients on their personal recovery journeys. This role is grounded in the principles of peer support — mutuality, self-determination, and empowerment — and serves as a bridge between clients and the clinical care team. Your unique perspective as someone with lived experience is the foundation of this position and a core part of our service model. Required: • Lived experience with mental health recovery, co-occurring disorders, and/or homelessness — this is a core qualification for this role • High school diploma or equivalent, relevant education or training in peer support, human services, or a related field preferred • Certification as a Peer Support Specialist (or willingness to obtain certification upon hire) • Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds • Ability to work effectively with individuals experiencing mental illness, homelessness, and/or substance use disorders • Commitment to the principles of recovery, self-determination, and trauma-informed care • Proficiency in basic documentation and ability to maintain client records Preferred: • California Peer Support Specialist certification or completion of a recognized peer support training program • Experience providing peer support in a Drop-In Center, outreach, or community mental health setting in Los Angeles • Knowledge of Los Angeles County mental health resources and social service systems • Bilingual in English and Spanish (or other languages reflective of the Los Angeles) • Familiarity with LA County Department of Mental Health (DMH) programs and protocols • CPR/First Aid certification Pay Rate: $25.00 per hour Hours: Monday – Friday, 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM (20 hrs./week) Location: Los Angeles, CA