Peer Support Specialist II

Overview Rutgers University Behavioral Health Care (UBHC), established in 1971, offers a full continuum of evidence‑based behavioral health and addiction services for children, adolescents, adults, and seniors throughout New Jersey. UBHC’s 1,060 experienced behavioral health professionals and support staff are dedicated to treatment, prevention, and education. UBHC is one of the largest providers of behavioral health care in the country, with a budget of $260 million and 15 sites throughout New Jersey. Services include inpatient, outpatient, partial hospitalization, screening, crisis stabilization, family/caregiver support, community outreach, case management, supportive housing, supported employment, prevention, consultation, employee assistance programs, and a licensed therapeutic school from preschool through high school. Specialty services include the New Jersey suicide prevention helpline and peer help lines for police, veterans, active military, teachers, mothers of special‑needs children, and child protective service workers. Posting Summary Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey is seeking a Peer Support Specialist II for Early Intervention Support Services (EISS) within Rutgers University Behavioral Health Care. The primary purpose of the Peer Support Specialist II is to assist in developing and maintaining a recovery‑oriented environment for adults (18 and older). The role provides a wide range of peer support services to help consumers regain control over their lives and recovery process, in accordance with UBHC and Unit policies and procedures. Responsibilities Use personal recovery experience to establish rapport and build relationships with consumers or family members. Model good communication, recovery‑oriented living, coping, and self‑help strategies for consumers. Develop and maintain therapeutic relationships with consumers to identify emotional, psychiatric, or behavioral changes that may require additional intervention or treatment, and refer as appropriate. Act as liaison to community resources and help consumers use these resources to enhance independent living skills. Collaborate closely with team members to provide services and communicate frequently regarding clients’ treatment responses. Assist in collecting and reporting data to evaluate program effectiveness and comply with funding source requirements. Provide advocacy activities with university departments and other agencies as directed. Qualifications Minimum Education and Experience High‑school diploma or equivalent. Be a self‑identified current or former user of mental‑health or co‑occurring services who has personal experience and knowledge of recovery and at least one (1) year of experience supporting others. Certifications and Licenses Valid driver’s license. Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Knowledge of psychosocial rehabilitation and the recovery model. Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Good knowledge of the public transit system or willingness to learn and teach. Ability to use a computer to record services or willingness to learn. Preferred Qualifications Peer training certification. Physical Demands and Work Environment Occasional time spent traveling to community settings for outreaches. Moderate physical effort (lift/carry up to 25 pounds). Frequent walking, bending, stretching, pushing, and pulling. Manual dexterity and mobility required for charting. May sit for several hours while interviewing clients. Work may involve emergencies or crises, exposure to infectious diseases, and handling clients who may exhibit assaultive behavior. Intermittent work in offices and community settings. Ability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays. Benefits Medical, prescription drug, and dental coverage. Paid vacation, holidays, and various leave programs. Competitive retirement benefits, including defined contribution plans and voluntary tax‑deferred savings options. Employee and dependent educational benefits (when applicable). Life insurance coverage. Employee discount programs. Employment Details Full‑time position. Working hours: 9 am to 5 pm. Standard hours: 40.00. Day shift. Pre‑employment Screening Employment is contingent upon successful completion of all pre‑employment screenings. Vaccination Requirements Proof of seasonal influenza vaccination may be required during Flu Season. Failure to provide proof may result in rescission of offer or disciplinary action. Equal Employment Opportunity Statement Rutgers University provides equal employment opportunity to all employees and applicants for employment, regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, age, disability, or any other protected characteristic. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply. #J-18808-Ljbffr Rutgers University