North County Lifeline·Vista, California
The Peer Advocate provides supportive services and basic needs assistance to youth experiencing homelessness using a housing first model. Responsibilities include facilitating groups, conducting outreach, and maintaining the drop-in center environment.
Lifeline Services is hiring a Peer Advocate to support our growing team. The Peer Advocate provides supportive services to youth and youth adults (YYA) who are experiencing homelessness or who are at risk of homelessness. Assures that the Drop in Center is functioning from a housing first model. The Peer Advocate makes sure that the YYA's needs and wants are being heard and addressed, that YYA's are getting assistance in obtaining safe, stable, inclusive housing that supports independence and permanent connection. This is a lived experience role that will help our team to create a warm and welcoming environment for the young people that we serve. We're looking for a candidate with strong skills in engagement, crisis intervention, case management, interviewing, rapport building, assessment, goal setting, and youth participation and development. Required Qualifications · Applicant must have lived experience and have knowledge on how to navigate systems. · BA preferred or enrolled in college courses. · Possess a good understanding of the homeless issue here in San Diego, human development, mental health, and substance use and how that impacts daily functioning. · Must have reliable transportation and be willing to work evenings as necessary to meet YYA's needs. Successful completion of multi-state criminal background check.
· Create a safe, welcoming and supportive environment to engage participants. · Provide basic needs assistance (food, water, new clothing, hygiene products, access to shower and do laundry, etc.) · Create, organize and facilitate the various groups and outings. · Connect participants to resources based on their needs. · Initiate and organize outreach efforts · Maintain the drop-in center (cleanliness, ensure rules are being followed, food orders and basic needs inventory) · Completes other duties as assigned. Schedule/Compensation · FT/nonexempt position · Monday-Friday from 8:30am-5pm (with flexibility) · $22.00 - $25.39 per hour. Salary will commensurate with experience and education. Differential pay offered for bilingual skills. EEO. Additional Requirement · Must have a valid driver's license and reliable transportation with a good driving record. · Willing to use own, properly insured, reliable vehicle for the job (mileage reimbursed). · Employment subject to clearances, including background finger printing checks, driving record, tuberculosis testing, and drug testing. About the Company North County Lifeline, Inc. is a non-profit human services organization that offers a wide range of services to the people of San Diego County. Our mission is to build self-reliance among youth, individuals and families through problem solving, skill-building and accessible community-based services. Come be part of a team who CAR2Es! At North County Lifeline, you will find people who are Connected to the communities we serve, Authentic, and Resourceful. We are Responsive to the needs of our clients and Engaged in our mission to build self-reliance among youth, adults, and families. Equal Opportunity Employer. We offer flexible work hours and excellent benefits to our employees. · Generous paid vacation · Paid sick time (6 days) · Paid holidays (14 days) · 100% employer paid medical, dental, vision, chiropractic and acupuncture coverage · 100% employer paid life insurance · Health and wellness programs · Employee Assistance program · Professional development assistance · Great employee incentive awards program · Training and education assistance · Matched 403b retirement plan · Flexible Spending Account · Paid supervision hours (clinical positions)
As part of our commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of our clients and maintaining the integrity of our workplace, North County Lifeline conducts comprehensive background and drug screening processes for all prospective employees. This includes, but is not limited to:
Verification through the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to ensure a good standing driving record.
Confirmation of your employment history to verify your experiences and qualifications.
Contacting provided references to gain insights into your work ethic, professionalism, and suitability for the role.
A TB test to ensure the health and safety of our clients and staff, in line with public health recommendations.
A 10-panel non-DOT drug test to screen for the presence of common illicit substances, ensuring a drug-free workplace.
Comprehensive checks through the Department of Justice (DOJ), FBI, and Child Abuse Index to identify any history that may impact your suitability for employment, particularly in roles involving vulnerable populations.
These screenings are a vital part of our hiring process and must be successfully completed for employment eligibility. North County Lifeline is dedicated to fair and responsible hiring practices and ensures that all screenings are conducted in accordance with applicable laws and regulations, respecting the privacy and rights of all candidates. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in this process, aimed at creating a safe and productive work environment for everyone.
Candidates must have lived experience navigating systems and a valid driver's license with reliable transportation. A bachelor's degree is preferred, along with knowledge of mental health and substance use issues in San Diego.
Market context
In California, behavioral-health roles tied to substance use disorder counseling and case management are typically supported by ongoing community and treatment-program demand. These positions are competitive because employers often look for a high school diploma, at least 2 years of SUD counseling or case management experience, and current Registered or Certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor status. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to quickly compare fit and note that professional development and paid continuing education are listed as benefits.