Peer Support Specialist

Description

Peer Support Specialist

Status: Full-Time, Non-Exempt

Reports To: Project Director

Position Summary

This is a temporary position through September 30, 2027. The Peer Support Specialist provides recovery support services to individuals with substance use and/or co-occurring mental health disorders by drawing on their own lived experience of recovery, specialized training, and peer support principles.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Establish supportive, recovery-focused relationships with participants through individual and group peer support services.
• Assist participants in identifying personal recovery goals and developing strategies to achieve greater independence and self-directed recovery.
• Collaborate with case managers, counselors, and multidisciplinary treatment teams to support implementation of individualized treatment and recovery plans.
• Facilitate peer support groups and promote participation in mutual aid and recovery support programs.
• Model recovery, resilience, healthy coping skills, and self-advocacy by appropriately sharing lived experience.
• Participate in community outreach and engagement activities to identify and connect individuals in need of services.
• When authorized, provide transportation assistance to support participant engagement in treatment and recovery services.

Requirements

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Must possess lived experience in recovery from a substance use disorder and demonstrate sustained recovery consistent with agency and certification requirements.
• Certified Peer Support Specialist or ability to obtain certification within the required timeframe preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of recovery principles, trauma-informed care, motivational support, and community resources.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, advocacy, and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to maintain professional boundaries, work effectively with diverse populations, and collaborate as part of a multidisciplinary team while maintaining participant confidentiality.

Working Conditions

• Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with occasional evening support groups and community events.
• Alternative scheduling, including four (4) ten-hour workdays, may be available based on program needs.
• Work is performed in office, clinic, and community.