Peer Support Specialist

Primary Purpose of Position:

The Peer Support Specialist is an employee of The Mediation and Restorative Justice Center (MRJC) and works through its peer-led Recovery Community Center, Homestead Recovery Center, to provide supportive services for individuals participating in programming. This position supports individuals who are involved with or at risk of involvement in the justice system due to substance use disorders, behavioral health challenges, mental health conditions, or other related needs. The Peer Support Specialist promotes self-sufficiency, self-advocacy, the development of natural supports, and the maintenance of skills learned through other services and supports. This role also collaborates closely with direct service and administrative staff to identify participant strengths, needed resources, and potential barriers to success. Description of Responsibilities and Duties Emphasize personal safety, self-worth, growth, promote life skills, self-advocacy, personal fulfillment, development of social supports, and effective communication skills. Engage in various skill-building activities such as learning how to maintain stable housing and independent living. In addition, model the above behaviors for those involved with services. Engage with MRJC/Homestead Recovery peers and in the community and if incarcerated Assist clients in navigating treatment/ referral system Communicate the needs and progress of the person supported to the Case Manager. Document and maintain contacts with clients. As well as documenting efforts made to engage high risk individuals. Complete and maintain comprehensive files. Enter data into the system to properly track outcomes. Accompany clients to meetings, self-help groups, and other relevant locations as needed Meet with clients conduct outreach in the community Model recovery values, attitudes, beliefs, and personal action to encourage wellness Assist Case Manager in daily responsibilities Attend relevant community advisory groups and present at groups as requested or needed Assist with transportation of clients to locations identified in their case plan. Staff are expected to use their personal vehicle for transportation if a company vehicle is not available at the time of transport. Provide support across other MRJC/ Homestead Recovery Center programs as needed, including group facilitation, outreach events, and community engagement activities. Respond to crisis calls and provide support during after-hours or emergency situations as part of the broader recovery center response network. Assist with administrative duties such as data entry, inventory tracking, scheduling, and maintaining shared spaces. Fill in for other program staff during absences or high-demand periods to ensure continuity of services. Support community education, prevention, and recovery activities in collaboration with other MRJC/ Homestead programs (e.g., Peer Services, Wheels of Change, Reentry Service Station, etc)

Work Schedule:

The hours for this position are generally 9:00 am - 5 pm Monday - Friday, however these hours are subject to change based on the needs of the community and/or agency. This position is expected to work "on call" for emergencies as determined by the Boone Police Department. Other hours required to work may include early morning, evening, and/or weekend times. After consultation with and approval of the supervisor, the employee may either flex their work schedule or earn compensatory time based on Fair Labor Standards.

Required Minimum Training:

Must have lived experience of being diagnosed with a serious mental illness or substance use disorder. Must be well established in their own recovery for an extended period of time of two years or more. Must be a NC Certified Peer Support Specialist or qualify to receive certification within 90 days of hire A valid North Carolina Driver's License, with no record of DUI, reckless driving, multiple speeding/ accidents within the last 3 years. Live within service area

Preferred Additional Qualifications, Training and Experience:

A two or four year degree is preferred but not required. Previous experience working as a Peer Support Specialist in a community setting is preferred but not required. Lived experience with the justice system is preferred but not required Display community investment and established relationships Ability to advocate and effectively communicate and problem solve under pressure in high-stress situations Understanding of recovery processes along with a demonstrated commitment to serving vulnerable populations, such as individuals experiencing homelessness and co-occurring disorders.

TO APPLY PLEASE COMPLETE INDEED APPLICATION AND SUBMIT

Resume Contact information for three (3) professional references Cover letter.

APPLICATIONS THAT ARE MISSING THE ABOVE REQUIRED DOCUMENTS WILL NOT BE REVIEWED OR CONSIDERED

Job Type:

Full-time Pay:

From $18.00 per hour

Benefits:

401(k) Dental insurance Health insurance Paid time off Retirement plan Vision insurance

Work Location:

In person