SEPTA Outreach Specialist

About the position

The Outreach Specialist at Merakey is a community-based role focused on providing support and guidance to individuals navigating behavioral health services in Philadelphia. This position involves working primarily at various SEPTA stations, serving as the first point of contact for clients and assisting them in building social and empowerment skills. The role emphasizes creating trusting relationships, educating clients about available resources, and facilitating access to necessary services.

Responsibilities

• Influences clients in the community as part of the outreach team.
• Maintains situational awareness and uses de-escalation strategies to ensure a calm environment.
• Conducts individual interventions as needed.
• Assists individuals in building social skills to enhance their quality of life.
• Helps individuals develop empowerment skills through education and self-advocacy.
• Offers a non-judgmental forum for listening and providing empathy.
• Uses personal experiences to build meaningful relationships with participants.
• Actively reaches out to vulnerable individuals hesitant to engage in resources.
• Informs consumers about community supports and their utilization in recovery.
• Educates and encourages resistant individuals to participate in treatment options.
• Makes placements for homeless individuals to shelters or treatment options.
• Keeps updated files and documentation regarding engagements and referrals.

Requirements

• High School diploma or GED.
• At least two years of behavioral health experience.
• Experience working with the homeless or those with substance use disorders.
• Knowledge of recovery principles and recovery-driven service systems.
• Computer skills including Microsoft Office and Google Applications.
• Ability to enter data on a mobile handheld device while in the field.
• Ability to establish professional relationships with peers.

Nice-to-haves

• Knowledge and experience working within the Philadelphia forensic system.
• Experience with Homeless Management Information System (HMIS).
• Peer Specialist Certification.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation plans
• DailyPay
• Work/Life Balance
• Flexible Schedules
• Cell Phone Discount Plans
• Employee Referral Bonuses