Peer Support Worker Lead at Chicanos Por La Causa – Albuquerque, New Mexico

Gateway West, located at 7440 Jim McDowell NW, is the City’s largest shelter and serves an average of 600 people per night, with cold winter nights bringing in more than 700 people. The shelter offers a safe and welcoming environment to men and women experiencing homelessness in Albuquerque. The center is open year-round, offering meals, a warm bed, and secure under-bed storage. Shuttle service is provided daily.

OBJECTIVE AND POSITION SUMMARY

The Lead Certified Peer Support Worker provides leadership and support to the Housing Support Specialist team at Gateway West Shelter. This role ensures the consistent delivery of high-quality, client-centered housing support services, including Rapid Rehousing and Transitional Housing programs. The lead coordinates day-to-day operations, assists with complex cases, fosters team development, and oversees some administrative functions such as reporting, compliance tracking, and communication with leadership. This position promotes trauma-informed practices, upholds shelter standards, and supports clients' transition to permanent housing through direct service and team leadership.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Provides day-to-day guidance, coaching, and support to the supportive housing team to include but not limited to Housing Support Specialists and Caseworkers

SPECIALIZATIONS

• Proficiency in peer support practices, case management, and housing program operations
• Skilled in supporting individuals and families impacted by trauma, mental health issues, or homelessness
• Strong leadership, mentoring, and team-building skills
• Expertise in maintaining program compliance and delivering services within Rapid Rehousing and Transitional Housing guidelines
• Ability to navigate local housing markets, rental programs, and landlord relations
• Familiarity with shelter-based operations, crisis response, and safety protocols
• Skilled in data tracking, reporting, and quality assurance activities

PRIMARY DUTIES AND ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Lead daily team huddles, ensuring effective communication of priorities and updates
• Provide mentorship and support to Housing Support Specialists, modeling best practices in client engagement and documentation
• Support complex client cases, assisting staff with interventions and creative housing solutions
• Monitor team caseloads, ensuring appropriate distribution and timely service delivery
• Conduct intake assessments and assist clients in developing individualized housing plans, when needed
• Track program compliance, assisting staff in adhering to eligibility and documentation requirements
• Maintain and update team tracking tools, performance dashboards, and reporting logs
• Assist Program Supervisor with onboarding, training, and coaching new staff members
• Act as a liaison between program staff and leadership for operational needs or urgent matters
• Foster relationships with housing partners, landlords, and community resources alongside team members
• Participate in case conferencing, multidisciplinary meetings, and community coalition activities
• Support staff in addressing client emergencies, stabilizing crises, and arranging referrals as necessary
• Ensure the shelter environment remains safe, trauma-informed, and client-centered
• Perform direct service work when needed to cover shifts or urgent client needs
• Prepare summaries, data reports, and success stories for leadership and funding partners
• Maintain accurate documentation of client and team activities
• Perform other duties as assigned to support the mission of the shelter and CPLC

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS AND COMPETENCIES

Education /Background:

• Certified Peer Support Worker required

• A Bachelor’s degree, preferred or
  • A combination of a minimum of six years of work experience and education will be considered
  • Minimum two years of experience in housing, case management, or social service delivery
• Previous experience working with individuals experiencing homelessness or in a supportive housing setting is highly desirable
• Strong understanding of trauma-informed care principles and a commitment to applying them in practice
• Ability to work effectively with diverse populations and demonstrate cultural competency
• Excellent communication, problem-solving, and organizational skills
• Ability to maintain professionalism and confidentiality in a fast-paced, high-stress environment
• Proficiency in basic computer applications, including Microsoft Office and client management software
• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel locally as needed