Peer Support Specialist

Job Description

Job Description

About the Position

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.

About the Division

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.

*Lane County employees may be eligible for student loan repayment: See links below.

• Public Service Loan Forgiveness
• National Health Service Corps

Find out from Lane County employees how it is to work for the Behavioral Health division.

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

*This is an AFSCME represented position*

Training:

• Equivalent to the completion of the twelfth grade.

E xperience:

• 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 Peer Support Specialist must be:

• 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.

Notes:

• 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.

Studies have shown that women and BIPOC individuals are less likely to apply for jobs unless they believe they are able to perform every task in the job description. We are most interested in finding the best candidate for the job, and that candidate may be one who comes from a less traditional background. The county will consider any equivalent combination of knowledge, skills, education, and experience to meet minimum qualifications. If you are interested in applying, we encourage you to think broadly about your background and skill set for the role.

Peer Support Specialist

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