Peer Support Specialist*

Overview The Orange County Emergency Services Department has an opening for a time-limited Peer Support Specialist. The role involves serving as a member of the Post‑Overdose Response Team (PORT) to provide field‑based medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD) and connect individuals with treatment and support services. Responsibilities Work is performed under the general direction of the Bureau Chief of Community Health and Safety, exercising independent judgment within applicable rules, regulations, and policies. The position includes planning and executing work, responding to customer needs, and conducting project assignments related to PORT activities. This is a safety‑sensitive position and participation in the Drug and Alcohol Program is required. An SBI background check is required before employment can commence. Hiring Range The salary range is based on the Orange County Step Plan, which considers years of experience, education, and certifications. Minimum Qualifications High School Diploma or GED equivalent. Valid and active North Carolina Certified Peer Support Specialist (NCPSS) certification active for at least two (2) years. Work experience with Microsoft Word, Excel, and Access. Experience directly providing or coordinating programs in social work, health services, counseling, or related fields is preferred. Experience serving on a Post‑Overdose Response Team (PORT) is preferred. Lived experience with substance use disorder or mental health is preferred. Bilingual ability is preferred. Medical Requirements Must provide the following by scheduled start date: Measles (vaccination or titer) Mumps (vaccination or titer) Rubella (vaccination or titer) Varicella (Chicken Pox) (vaccination or titer) Pertussis (Tdap) Hepatitis B vaccination Proof of Hepatitis B vaccination for healthcare providers or a positive titer. If previously unvaccinated, need a 2‑dose Heplisav‑B or 3‑dose (Engerix‑B or Recombivax HB) series. For healthcare providers who perform tasks involving exposure to blood or body fluids, proof of anti‑HBs serological testing 1‑2 months after dose #2 (Heplisav‑B) or dose #3 (Engerix‑B or Recombivax HB). Proof of a current (within the last 12 months) TB evaluation: Evidence of negative 2‑step skin testing as defined in the NC TB Control Plan. Evidence of a positive TB test followed by a negative chest film and a negative review of symptoms completed within 30 days. Evidence of a negative interferon gamma release assay (IGRA). Evidence of a positive IGRA followed by a negative chest film and a negative review of symptoms completed within 30 days. Special Requirements Possession of or ability to readily obtain a valid driver’s license issued by the State of North Carolina for the type of vehicle or equipment operated. All offers of employment are conditional upon successful clearance of an SBI background check and pre‑employment drug testing. Employment cannot commence until the employee has been cleared. Candidates may be required to undergo fingerprinting and a criminal history background check based on job responsibilities. A fingerprinting check is conducted by the State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) and a criminal history background check is conducted by an authorized federal or state regulatory agency. All offers of employment are contingent upon the satisfactory verification of eligibility for employment, successful completion of required pre‑employment testing and/or screening, and approval of all new hire documentation. Equal Opportunity Statement Orange County is an Equal Opportunity and affirmative action employer. Additional Information For full job specifications, visit: #J-18808-Ljbffr Orange County Government