Peer Specialist (Grant Position)

Department:                               Sheriff - Enforcement

Position Control Number:           0400-214

FLSA Status:                              Non-Exempt; position is eligible for overtime

Safety Sensitive Designation:    This position is not designated as safety-sensitive.

Random Drug/Alcohol Test:       No

Opening Date:                            January 17, 2026                            

Closing Date:                             January 26, 2026 at 11:59 PM

This job description should not be interpreted as all-inclusive.  It is intended to identify the essential functions and minimum qualifications of this job.  The incumbent(s) may be required to perform job-related responsibilities and tasks other than those stated in this job description.  Nothing in this job description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign job-related responsibilities and tasks to this job at any time.  Certain functions are understood to be essential; these include, but are not limited to, attendance, getting along with others, working a full shift, and dealing with and working under stress.  Any essential function of this class will be evaluated as necessary should an incumbent/applicant be unable to perform the function or requirement due to a disability as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).  Reasonable accommodation for the specific disability will be made for the incumbent/applicant only to the extent medically

and reasonably feasible.

An Equal Opportunity Employer

JOB SUMMARY:  Provides assistance, coordination, and staff support between Pulaski County and local service-providing agencies regarding ex-offenders returning to the community from Pulaski County Regional Detention Facility.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

     * Assists inmates in setting recovery goals and action plans.

     * Provides emotional, informational, instrumental, and affiliation support services to inmates.

     * Aids inmates in problem-solving by connecting to resources related to recovery, sober living facilities, promoting new social skills, and enhancing job skills.

     * Provides inmates assistance with collateral issues including criminal justice and/or coexisting physical or mental challenges.

     * Encourages education and employment advancement and assists with addicted related problem-solving.

     * Teaches core recovery values; tolerance, acceptance, and gratitude.

     * Teaches and demonstrates appropriate self-expression and self-reflection.

     * Acts as a coach and mentor, and help clients to set goals and work toward developing skills.

     * Assists individuals in developing natural support; socialization/integration skills training.

     * Conducts job-related training; interviewing skills, preparing resumes, etc.

     * Supports and encourages inmates through one-on-one and group meetings; share and discuss common experiences.

     * Teaches self-management skills to enhance overall independence.

     * Conducts interviews with inmates to verify qualifications of State requirements.

     * Develops and maintains collaborative relationships with local and state corrections agencies, faith and community agencies, and businesses to link ex-offenders to workforce resources, employment training, support services, and employment opportunities in cooperation with the re-entry partnership and network.

     * Operates a computer, utilizing a database, spreadsheet, Data Assessment Plan (DAP), progress notes, survey, and software to prepare a variety of reports, correspondence, and other documents.

     * Requests appointments and applications for Medicare, Medicaid, veteran benefits, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), housing, and court dates.

     * Conducts a Wellness Recovery Action Plan.

SECONDARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

     * Performs other related duties as required.

PERSONNEL SUPERVISED:  None

WORKING CONDITIONS:  Work is performed in a smoking-restricted office environment.  Movement within the Detention Facility may be required. Occasional trips to various locations within the county will be required; some travel may be required after normal business hours. 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

REQUIRED SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE, AND ABILITIES:

     *

          + Considerable Knowledge of standard office practices and procedures.

          + Considerable Knowledge of computer fundamentals and business software.

          + Considerable knowledge of interviewing, psychological addiction recovery, and counseling methods and techniques.

          + Ability to organize and direct the activities of groups of people.

          + Ability to work with diverse groups.

          + Ability to operate a non-commercial motor vehicle. 

          + Ability to attend work regularly and reliably. 

          + Skill in the operation of a computer utilizing databases, spreadsheets, and reports.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

     *

          + Visual acuity is needed for use of the computer monitor.

          + Digital dexterity is needed for the use of a keyboard and operating a motor vehicle. 

          + Ability to concentrate for long periods of time.

          + Ability to communicate effectively, both orally, with individuals and groups, and in writing.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

Completion of high school or GED equivalency; considerable experience working with community organizations, social work agencies, or a related field; or any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the required skills, knowledge, and abilities.