Peer Support Specialist

Peer Support Specialist

Lane County Behavioral Health is looking for a skilled Peer Support Specialist (PSS) to join our Aid & Assist Team serving adults with severe and persistent mental illness and who are engaged in the process to determine fitness to participate in their own defense. This is a position for someone who is interested in systems level engagement along with client care. The ideal candidate is interested in being a part of a multidisciplinary team which includes behavioral health staff who interface frequently with Oregon State Hospital staff, municipal and circuit court staff, psychiatrists and law enforcement personnel. The PSS will provide outreach and support primarily in the community, in adult correction facilities and at the state hospital for individuals whose fitness to participate in their own defense is in question. This person will utilize evidence-based treatments and supports while being responsible for supporting the participation of individuals in community based restoration. This position supports engagement between the client and the community, contracted housing organizations, the Oregon State Hospital and the criminal justice system. Lane County Behavioral Health is looking for dedicated individuals who are focused on solutions, with a passion to serve and who are driven to connect. This position does require Adult Mental Health Peer Support Specialist certification and registration with the OHA as a Traditional Healthcare Worker. Where as this position requires significant in-person work, telework may be available for permanent employees.

Lane County Behavioral Health provides services to more than 1,600 individuals with behavioral health conditions. We work with community partners to provide a continuum of care from prevention through treatment and aftercare in an environment that promotes a culture of resilience and recovery.

Schedule: Monday - Friday; 8:00am - 5:00pm

*This is an AFSCME represented position*

Qualifications

Training:

• Equivalent to the completion of the twelfth grade.

Experience:

• Six (6) months of paid or unpaid experience as a peer advocate in a mental health system is preferred.
• Experience facilitating group and participating on committees is preferred.

Special Requirements:

• Transcripts
• Registered as Adult Mental Health Peer Support Specialist THW (Traditional Health Care Worker) through OHA (Oregon Health Authority)
• 40 Hour Adult Mental Health Peer Support Specialist Training & Certification
• NPI
• Diploma
• CV or Resume
• Possession of a valid driver's license at time of application and a valid Oregon Driver's License by the time of appointment.

• A self-identified person currently or formerly receiving mental health services; OR
• A self-identified person in recovery from a substance use disorder, who meets the abstinence requirements for recovering staff in alcohol and drug treatment programs; OR
• A family member of an individual who is a current or former recipient of addictions or mental health services.
• Will be asked to discuss recovering experiences during the interview process.

• This position is subject to a full criminal offender information record check.
• Offers of employment are contingent upon consenting to and successfully passing a drug screening test.
• Please note that as part of the screening process, Lane County will verify license and certification status.

Classification Details

Peer Support Specialist

Supplemental Information

Selection Process

Equal Employment Opportunity

Lane County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We value diversity, equity, and inclusion as essential elements that create and foster a welcoming workplace. All qualified persons will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, political affiliation, disability or any other factor unrelated to the essential functions of the job.

Strategic Plan

In alignment with Lane County's Strategic Plan, incumbent(s) will be expected to demonstrate the following core behaviors: Passion to Serve, Driven to Connect, and Focused on Solutions.

The 2025 - 2027 Strategic Plan focuses on the areas that Lane County will pursue as a way to deliver on our vision for the residents of Lane County. To meet these challenges, we know that the basis of our efforts lies in leveraging our people and partnerships to achieve our Strategic Priorities. We also recognize that the quality and commitment of our staff is essential to a shared future where Lane County is the best place in which to live, work, and play.

Trauma Informed Care Statement

Lane County Health & Human Services is committed to providing Trauma Informed Care. As an organization, we recognize that many of the people we serve have experienced trauma, either currently, recently or in their past. Our agency is dedicated to incorporating an understanding of trauma, both with our clients and with each other. Our employees receive ongoing training to develop or deepen their understanding of trauma and its impacts.

Veteran Preference Information

Careers with Lane County Offer Extraordinary Benefits

At Lane County, we value our employees and we show it with our extraordinary benefits. We know that you chose public service for more than a paycheck, and our outstanding benefits are designed to help you Live Well, Live Lane - throughout your career. Read on to learn what great benefits await you in a career with Lane County.

Health insurance coverage becomes effective the first of the month following your first 30-days as an eligible employee. Medical, prescription and vision exam coverage for you and your eligible dependents. The plan options and costs per month for 2026 are outlined below:

If you enroll in the HDHP the County will contribute to your HSA:

For eligible members of unions LCPOA, 626, Admin Pro, and AFSCME Physicians $1,700 for individual coverage and $3,400 for family coverage.

For eligible members of unions AFSCME General, AFSCME Nurses, FOPPO, PAA, and non-represented employees $1,600 for individual coverage and $3,200 for family coverage. Those who complete the requirements to receive the Live Well Credit by November 30, 2026, will receive an additional contribution of $400 individual or $800 family, funded in 2027.

These amounts are prorated based on date of hire. All eligible employees who complete a Health History Risk Assessment (HHRA), Biometric Screening, and Comprehensive Health Review (CHR) at the Live Well Center receive a $20 per month credit. The Live Well Center is for Lane County benefits-eligible employees, spouses and dependents (ages 2 and up) who are enrolled in the Lane County health plan. Marathon Health manages the Live Well Center and their clinical team provides confidential, affordable care for your acute and preventive healthcare needs. The Live Well Center also provides health coaching, chronic disease counseling, comprehensive primary care services, and much more.

Dental coverage for employees and their eligible dependents.

Employee Assistance Program (EAP) counseling and concierge service to employees and members of their immediate households.

Free membership to a local fitness center.

Lane County pays for and enrolls employees in the Oregon Public Service Retirement Plan (OPSRP) and the Individual Account Program (IAP) following six full months of employment. Long-Term Disability coverage. Lane County complies with all State and Federal disability laws for employee, family, parental and pregnancy leaves regulations. A generous bank of hours to be used for sick, vacation, family emergencies and personal days.

10 paid holidays per year: New Year's Day, Independence Day, Martin Luther King Jr's Birthday, Labor Day, Presidents' Day, Veterans' Day, Memorial Day, Thanksgiving Day, Juneteenth, Christmas Day.

Lane County pays for employee group term life insurance.

On-site classes to develop employees' soft and technical skills. Online classes through LEAP to help employees continually improve their skills. Reimbursement for employees to attend professional conferences, dependent upon budget, to encourage continuous learning and professional development.

Deferred Compensation Retirement Savings - Employees may enroll in a deferred compensation program 457(b) to save for retirement. Eligible employees may purchase supplemental vision insurance. Employees may purchase supplemental life insurance for themselves and their dependents/spouse. Optional employee-paid voluntary group coverage is available through Aflac. Group discounts may include homeowners and auto insurance, pet health insurance, credit union membership.