About Job

We are a small six-bed residential substance use disorder treatment program for women in North Park. A majority of our clients stay 90 + days so our staff have the opportunity to effect lasting change in the lives of the women we serve. We are looking for a experienced and Certified Peer Support Specialist to join our Team.

Typical Duties of the Peer Specialist

Acts as an ambassador to the program by welcoming, providing orientation, and engage prospective clients to the program
Utilizes experiences as a recipient of Substance Use Disorder and mental health services to enhance recovery efforts of clients within the program
Promotes and models the concept of recovery to program participants
Serves as a member of the multidisciplinary team and shares practical insight related to illness management, life skills, and the lifelong recovery process
Acts as an advocate for the client when appropriate
May assist clients by driving to appointments, benefits applications, assessing social service needs

Required Qualifications

Lived Experience: Personal experience with mental health and/or substance use recovery and at least 1 year of sustained recovery.
Certification: Completion of an approved Peer Support Specialist Certification Program.
Education: High school diploma or GED.
Background Check: Must pass a criminal background check in accordance with program requirements and state regulations.
Driving: Valid driver's license.

Required Skills

Interpersonal & Communication Skills

Active listening and compassionate communication
Ability to build rapport and trust with clients
Professional boundaries while maintaining peer-based connection

Cultural Competency

Awareness of and sensitivity to diverse backgrounds
Ability to support clients from underserved and marginalized communities

Knowledge Base

Understanding of trauma-informed care
Familiarity with recovery principles, harm reduction, and stages of change
Basic knowledge of mental health and substance use disorders

Organizational Skills

Accurate and timely documentation of services provided
Ability to manage time and caseload effectively
Basic computer proficiency (e.g., Microsoft Word, EHR systems like SmartCare)

Advocacy & Support

Ability to empower clients to make their own choices
Skill in navigating and linking clients to community resources
Comfort facilitating peer-led groups and 1:1 recovery coaching
High School diploma/GED required; some college strongly preferred
At least one year of work experience
Peer Employment Training preferred, required after hire
Previous experience working in mental health services is an advantage
First Aid/CPR certification is required and must be kept current during employment
Proficient computer skills, including MS Office
Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment is essential
Be at least 18 years of age.
Be self-identified as having experience with the process of recovery from a mental illness or substance use disorder, either as a consumer of these services or as the parent, caregiver or family member of a consumer.
Be willing to share their experience.
Have a strong dedication to recovery.
Pass the certification examination.

Preferred Qualifications (Optional but Beneficial)