Peer Support Specialist

Eligibility and Term Limit This position is only open to residents of the State of Colorado at the time of submitting your application. TERM LIMIT: This position is term limited and funding cannot be guaranteed beyond 12/31/27. The incumbent must be willing and able to resign by that date or when funds run out, whichever comes first. Responsibilities Under the direction of upper-level Health Professionals, receive training and guidance on navigating and supporting persons living with HIV, including those newly diagnosed, lapsed in care, medically vulnerable, or pregnant. Provide peer-based support using peer support approaches, including sharing relevant experiences, to promote engagement in medical care and support services. Collaborate with Ryan White case managers to connect and support clients navigating the Ryan White resources and services. Conduct community engagement activities for persons living with HIV. Attend meetings, serve on task forces or teams, complete projects, and perform other duties as assigned by the supervisor. Assist clients facing challenges such as new diagnosis, non-virally suppressed status, out of care, justice-involved status, language or cultural barriers, housing instability, and other disruptions impacting self-regulation. Navigate healthcare, behavioral/mental health, and substance use recovery systems on behalf of clients. Maintain focus on client connection to healthcare and treatment, medication adherence, pursuit of viral suppression, and improved health outcomes. Help reduce stigma, build social connections, and provide referrals to psychosocial and social service supports. Minimum Qualifications None specified. Candidates may qualify through work experience alone or through a combination of education and work experience. Preferred Qualifications Relevant experience with the State of Colorado. Experience assisting clients with scheduling healthcare or other social support appointments. Experience working with communities impacted by STI/HIV/VH. Ability to prioritize work, including planning and organizing work assignments effectively. Have lived experience and the ability to engage and build trust with clients navigating Ryan White services. Experience conducting educational and outreach activities to reduce stigma and foster program participation. Experience working with diverse populations. Excellent communication skills in building trust, motivating, and problem-solving. Conditions of Employment Pre-employment background check will be conducted as part of the selection process. Must be available in the event of a emergency or activation of the Continuity of Operations Plan and be required to report to work immediately. Travel to field visits to meet with clients and accompany them to appointments is required. Benefits and Offerings Free parking and access to RTD bus lines. Flexible working arrangements. Retirement (PERA options), medical and dental health plans. Defined Benefit Plan or the PERA Defined Contribution Plan, plus optional 401K and 457 plans. Paid life insurance. Short- and long-term disability coverage. 11 paid holidays per year and generous personal time off. Tuition assistance. Wellness programs. Professional development opportunities on a wide variety of subjects. Career advancement opportunities throughout the State system. Equal Opportunity Employer Statement The State of Colorado is an equal opportunity employer committed to building inclusive, innovative work environments with employees who reflect our communities and enthusiastically serve them. #J-18808-Ljbffr State of Colorado