Peer Specialist-ZS531501

Job Description

Job Description

JOB SUMMARY:

The Peer Specialist brings the essential perspective of lived experience of suicide risk and recovery to every aspect of the Zero Suicide initiative. This individual serves as a member of the Steering Council and implementation team, contributes to training development and delivery, supports outreach and engagement, and serves as a bridge between individuals served and the clinical team. 

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

1. Serve as a member of the Zero Suicide Steering Council, representing the perspective of individuals with lived experience of suicide risk and recovery. 
2. Contribute to the development and review of training materials, safety plan templates, outreach materials, and communication strategies to ensure they are person-centered, recovery-oriented, and accessible. 
3. Participate in training delivery, including sharing lived experience perspectives during safeTALK sessions and staff orientation. 
4. Support outreach and engagement activities, including the caring contacts protocol for individuals at elevated risk during and after care transitions. 
5. Provide mentorship and support to individuals navigating the suicide care pathway, using peer support principles. 
6. Contribute to culturally responsive adaptations of Zero Suicide materials and practices, drawing on knowledge of the communities ICL serves. 
7. Assist with community engagement and awareness activities related to suicide prevention, including 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline promotion. 
8. Participate in quality improvement activities, providing feedback on the individual experience of Zero Suicide services. 
9. Visit program sites to support training and quality improvement activities
10. Perform other related duties that may be assigned.

ESSENTIAL KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Knowledge of recovery-oriented principles, person-centered care, and trauma-informed approaches. 
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to share personal experience in a professional and empowering manner. 
• Cultural responsiveness and experience working with diverse, underserved populations, including individuals with serious mental illness, homelessness, and justice involvement. 
• Comfort working collaboratively with clinical and administrative teams. 
• Ability to work independently, as well as collaboratively with other team members

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE:

• New York State Certified Peer Specialist (NYSCPS) certification, or ability to obtain certification within 6 months of hire. 
• Lived experience of suicide risk and recovery, with a sustained period of personal stability and wellness. 
• Minimum 1 year of experience providing peer support services in behavioral health, health care, or community-based settings.