Lead Housing Support Associate

Job Details: Job Location: 721 Fawcett Ave

• Tacoma, WA, Position Type: Full Time, Salary Range: $20.85 - $22.56Hourly, Job Shift: Day, Job Summary: The Lead Housing Peer Counselor provides direct peer support services while serving as a lead worker for Housing Peer Counselors. This role supports day-to-day building operations by assisting with staff scheduling, on-call coverage, coaching, and workflow coordination, while continuing to promote tenant safety, stability, and engagement. In addition to maintaining regular peer support and building safety duties, the Lead Housing Peer Counselor acts as a resource and mentor to peers, supports consistent implementation of policies and procedures, and assists management with communication, coverage planning, and issue escalation.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Provide peer support services to tenants using trauma-informed, recovery-oriented practices. Engage tenants using motivational support, empathy, and shared lived experience where appropriate. Assist tenants in accessing community resources, services, and supports. De-escalate conflicts and crisis situations in a calm and supportive manner.

Facilitate or co-facilitate tenant activities, community engagement opportunities, and recovery-supportive events. Support tenants in understanding and complying with building rules and program expectations. Maintain a safe, sanitary living and work environment through routine floor checks, perimeter checks, and safety monitoring.

Monitor common areas and building systems, including security cameras, to ensure tenant and building safety. Ensure only authorized individuals enter the building and that guests follow building policies. Respond to emergencies according to MDC policies and building safety procedures. Contact emergency services (911, police, fire, etc.)

when necessary. Complete incident reports and required documentation in a timely manner. Complete maintenance requests and communicate building concerns to appropriate staff. Maintain building activity logs and documentation. Serve as a resource and mentor for Peer Counselors and Resident Peer Support staff. Assist the Housing Program Manager with communication of operational updates and procedures.

Provide real-time guidance to staff during challenging tenant situations or building incidents. Support onboarding and orientation of new peer support staff. Assist in reinforcing MDC policies, safety procedures, and program expectations. Assist with shift coverage planning to support program continuity. Participate in a scheduled rotation for managing call-outs and assisting with coverage coordination.

Help identify staffing gaps and notify management of operational needs. Provide flexible coverage across shifts or housing sites when needed. Support coordination of daily workflow and communication between shifts. Assist with maintaining common areas including light janitorial duties when necessary. Support inventory tracking for office and janitorial supplies.

Facilitate access for vendors, contractors, and service providers. Participate in staff meetings and contribute to program improvement efforts. Communicate effectively with Care Coordinators, Property Management, and leadership. Support MDC’s mission, values, and commitment to trauma-informed services. Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications: High School Diploma or GED At least 3 years of experience working with individuals experiencing homelessness, behavioral health challenges, or substance use recovery. Previous experience in peer support, supportive housing, or residential behavioral health programs. Current or anticipated Certified Peer Support Specialist Credential.

Demonstrated leadership or mentoring experience. Knowledge of Pierce County behavioral health and housing resources. Demonstrated ability to use trauma-informed engagement and de-escalation techniques. First Aid, CPR and Food Handler Card Strong communication skills and ability to maintain professional boundaries. Must have valid/current Washington State driver’s license, reliable personal transportation and insurance.

The incumbent must successfully pass a criminal background check which may include fingerprinting. Physically able to climb flights of stairs and carry up to 40 lbs. Experience with diverse, low-income or special needs population Ability to maintain confidentiality. Able to complete concise reporting. Working knowledge of computers and computer data entry processes