[Hiring] Part-Time Peer Support Line Specialist @DHRM

Role Description

The Virginia Department of Social Services (VDSS), Office of Trauma and Resilience Policy is currently seeking a part-time Peer Support Line Specialist. This position reports to the Workforce Resilience Program Supervisor and provides confidential, trauma-informed emotional support to Virginia local social services workers experiencing stress, burnout, or exposure to traumatic events, as part of the Workforce Resilience Program. The Peer Support Line Specialist draws on previous child welfare or social services lived experience, empathy, and resilience skills to support local social services workers who contact the Peer Support Line, DSS Peer Connect. DSS Peer Connect is not a crisis hotline, but rather, the focus is on peer connection, grounding, and resource navigation.

The Peer Support Line Specialist will be open Monday through Friday between the hours of 7:00am and 7:00pm. Therefore, shifts are only available during this time.

Qualifications

• Experience in a frontline, consultant, and/or supervisory position working directly in, or in close partnership with, family services programs within a local department of social services (e.g., child welfare, foster care, CPS, family engagement, or related service areas).
• Knowledge of child welfare practice and workforce stressors.
• Knowledge of and experience applying trauma-informed approaches, policies, or practices in a human services environment.
• Skill in empathetic listening and peer support communication.
• Ability to apply outstanding customer service and high level of professionalism with internal and external partners.
• Demonstrated ability to remain calm and grounded during emotionally charged conversations.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and follow protocols.
• Cultural humility and sensitivity to diverse backgrounds.

Requirements

• Experience providing peer support, coaching, or stress mitigation strategies to individuals experiencing vicarious trauma, stress, and/or burnout.

Benefits

• This is an hourly/wage position and is not entitled to the Commonwealth of Virginia’s state benefits package.
• This position is limited to no more than 1500 hours in a 12-month period and averages no more than 29 hours a week.

Contact Information

• Name: VDSS - Division of Human Resources
• Email: [email protected]