Peer Support Specialist

JOB SUMMARY: Provides recovery-oriented peer support services to clients of Genesis Residential Center and Off Main Clinic who are experiencing substance use disorders and related behavioral health challenges. Drawing on qualifying lived experience, builds supportive relationships that promote engagement, self-determination, wellness, recovery, and connection to community resources and natural supports. Works collaboratively with clients and interdisciplinary team members and provides services in accordance with DMC-ODS and Medi-Cal requirements, program policies, and applicable confidentiality requirements.ESSENTIAL DUTIES:Provides individual and group peer support services consistent with the client’s approved plan of care, using lived experience to promote hope, empowerment, self-determination, recovery, development of coping and wellness strategies, and engagement in treatment and community supports.Facilitates peer-led groups as appropriate and provides services within the Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist scope of practice.Notifies appropriate staff and follows program emergency procedures in emergencies involving clients or the facility.Maintains confidentiality of client and staff information in accordance with applicable privacy requirements, including HIPAA and 42 CFR Part 2.Completes timely, accurate, and Medi-Cal-compliant documentation of services in the electronic health record in accordance with DMC-ODS and program requirements.Maintains professional boundaries with clients.Performs other duties as assigned.MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:High school diploma or GED.Basic computer skills and ability to use an electronic health record and other required documentation systems.Ability to maintain professional conduct and appropriate boundaries in interactions with clients, staff, and others.Possesses qualifying lived experience with substance use or mental health recovery, either personally or as a parent, caregiver, or family member, and is willing to appropriately use that experience to support the recovery of others.Current Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist certification through CalMHSA is preferred at time of hire. Candidates who are not certified at hire must complete the required 80-hour CalMHSA-approved training and obtain Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist certification within 90 days of hire. CHS may extend this timeframe for documented certification-processing delays outside the employee’s control.Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist certification must be maintained throughout employment, including completion of applicable continuing education and renewal requirements.Valid California driver’s license and automobile insurance.CPR and First Aid certification and TB clearance.Ability to complete and maintain required training in naloxone administration and overdose response protocols.Strong problem-solving, communication, and conflict-resolution skills.Ability to work within the defined peer role and scope of practice under appropriate supervision.Ability to relate effectively to individuals from diverse backgrounds and appropriately use recovery knowledge and lived experience to support clients and the treatment team.Ability to adapt to changing situations and program needs.PHYSICAL EFFORT:Manual dexterity sufficient to write and use a telephone, computer, and other office equipment.Vision sufficient to read handwritten and printed materials and the display screen of various office equipment and machinesHearing sufficient to communicate in person and hold telephone conversations in the normal range;Ability to communicate effectively in person, by telephone, and when addressing groups.Physical stamina and mobility sufficient to sit, stand, walk, and move throughout residential, clinic, office, and community environments for prolonged periods, including stairs and ramps, and to respond to emergency situations.Physical strength sufficient to periodically lift, carry, push and/or pull 40 pounds of materials or supplies; occasionally lift, carry, push and/or pull more than 40 pounds with assistance.WORK ENVIRONMENT: Predominantly indoor work environment. Occasional outdoor work for work-related errands, travel, and drills. Employees may be transferred within the same classification to another program based on the needs of the organization.SALARY: $55,710 - $67,717/yr D.O.E. Additional 5% if bilingual and biliterate in English and Spanish.E04JI8000gud409elld #J-18808-Ljbffr