Peer Support Specialist

Initial Posting Details Initial Posting Date: 07/22/2026 Application Deadline: 07/30/2026 Agency: Oregon Health Authority Salary Range: $4,519 - $5,714 Position Type: Employee Position Title: Peer Support Specialist-Oregon State Hospital (SR19) Job Description The Oregon State Hospital (Salem Campus) is searching for a Peer Support Specialist to provide 1:1 peer support to individually requested or intra-departmentally referred patients. Share lived experiences as appropriate to build rapport, validate experiences, and promote social learning through relational exchange. The Oregon State Hospital has two campuses, one in Salem and one in Junction City. We encourage you to take the time to visit our website to learn more about the important work we do and our Treatment Services department. What you will do This position is to provide direct program support to patients in the implementation of advocacy, patient and OSH staff education, group and individual support, peer-operated services, individual wellness planning, and recovery maintenance in Salem, Oregon. This position provides support to the patient individually by the patient’s request and in a variety of Treatment Mall, Unit-Based, or Community-Based activities. Incumbents can practice independently, using supervision from the Director of Peer Recovery Services. What will you do! Develop and facilitate peer-centered, peer-led groups that provide relationship skill-building and support on Treatment Malls, hospital units, and within the community Support patients in exploring coping and recovery skills to respond to challenges in their treatment and care and navigate institutional and personal recovery journeys in alignment with self-determined values and abilities Provide education and resources to patients on communication skills, community resources/natural supports, peer support and other related self-advocacy and recovery skills Encourage patients' development of actions centered in hope and choice. Coordinate with other treatment providers to ensure group delivery and outings are time, space, policy and individually appropriate. Complete appropriate paperwork to verify patient privilege level prior to conducting groups on-grounds and in the community. Assist in development of materials and/or resources that explain peer services and recovery (for both internal and external audiences. What's in it for you? We offer full medical, vision and dental with paid sick leave, vacation, personal leave and ten paid holidays per year plus pension and retirement plans. If you're driven by the passion to do something meaningful that changes lives, the Oregon Health Authority is the place for you. *This is a full-time, permanent, SEIU represented position. The Oregon Health Authority is committed to developing and promoting culturally and linguistically appropriate programs and a diverse and inclusive workforce representing the diversity, culture, strengths and values of the people of Oregon. Minimum Qualifications Three years of experience working with mentally, emotionally, behaviorally, or physically impaired clients. Bachelor’s degree in behavioral or social science (e.g. social work, human services, psychology, child development, gerontology, health, or health education) may be substituted for one year of the required experience. Special Qualifications The incumbent must have completed a recognized Peer Support training and be certified as a Traditional Health Care Worker. Additionally, Intentional Peer Support training will be required for those that do not currently have this certification within 6 months of employment. Incumbents with experience of legal system involvement or incarceration are encouraged to apply. Employment Conditions We do not offer VISA sponsorships or transfers at this time – unless specifically noted. Within three days of hire, you will be required to complete the US Department of Homeland Security's I-9 form confirming authorization to work in the United States. If you are offered employment, the offer will contingent upon the outcome of an abuse check, criminal records check and driving records check, and the information shall be shared with the Oregon Health Authority (OHA), Office of Human Resources (OHR). Any criminal or founded abuse history will be reviewed and could result in the withdrawal of the offer or termination of employment. Candidates who are offered employment at the Oregon State Hospital must satisfactorily pass a pre-employment drug test. Equal Opportunity and Diversity The Oregon Health Authority is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, genetic information or any other protected class under state or federal law. OHA is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, genetic information or any other protected class under state or federal law. We do not discriminate on the basis of protected class (race, sex, veteran status, disability, age, color, religion, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation) in the payment of wages or screening applicants on the basis of their current or past compensation. The Oregon Health Authority is committed to fair employment practices and non-discrimination, including pay equity for all employees. About Oregon We work as a team, challenging ourselves to be better, faster and more efficient with taxpayer dollars. After all, when every day we are responsible for caring for the needs of a diverse population and thriving business community, we simply must have the best and brightest workforce. If you take responsibility for your actions, are passionate about helping others succeed, and have a reputation for excellence and honesty, why not make Oregon state government your next career move? Joining our team means you open the door to many possibilities. From entry level to executive, outdoor work to policy setting, we have a role for nearly every calling, expertise and background. If you’re looking at us from across the country (or beyond!), know that Oregon is one of the most beautiful places on earth. Made up of seven diverse regions, Oregon has the ocean, mountains, valleys, high desert, cities, small towns, and almost everything in between. Oregon “flies with her own wings.” #J-18808-Ljbffr