Peer Support Specialist - JBCR Program (Certified) Part-Time

Peer Support Specialist - JBCR Program (Certified) Part-Time Vibrant MD Quincy, FL Job Details Part-time $17 - $20 an hour Qualifications Crisis intervention Computer operation Computer literacy High school diploma or GED Driver's License Mental health counseling Computer skills Certified Peer Specialist (CPS) Full Job Description Overview Join our dedicated team as a Peer Support Specialist within the JBCR Program, where your lived experience and compassionate approach will make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals navigating behavioral health challenges. This part-time, certified role offers an energizing opportunity to empower others through mentorship, crisis intervention, and recovery support. Your expertise will foster hope, resilience, and positive change in a dynamic environment committed to holistic well-being.

Location:

Gadsden County Detention Facility Position Summary Peer Support Specialists with lived experience of mental health recovery provide hope, mentorship, and practical support to JBCR participants. This role utilizes personal recovery journey to inspire hope, model wellness strategies, teach coping skills, and support individuals navigating both mental illness and the criminal justice system. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Peer Mentoring and Support (50%)

• Provide one-on-one peer support to assigned participants (caseload of 8-10)
• Share personal recovery story to instill hope and demonstrate recovery is possible
• Build trusting, authentic relationships based on mutual respect
• Listen actively and validate participants' experiences without judgment
• Model healthy coping strategies and wellness practices
• Encourage participation in treatment and program activities
• Support participants in identifying personal strengths and goals
• Provide encouragement during difficult moments or setbacks Recovery-Oriented Activities (25%)
• Co-facilitate recovery-focused groups (wellness, self-advocacy, goal-setting)
• Lead skill-building activities (stress management, problem-solving, communication)
• Facilitate recreational and social activities to promote engagement
• Teach wellness and self-care strategies (sleep hygiene, nutrition, exercise)
• Support participants in developing relapse prevention plans
• Encourage medication adherence through education and support (not medication administration)
• Assist participants in identifying and pursuing personal recovery goals Bridge to Community Resources (15%)
• Educate participants about community mental health services and supports
• Help participants develop plans for accessing services post-release
• Share information about peer support groups, clubhouses, and recovery communities
• Connect participants with resources for housing, employment, and benefits
• Assist with completing applications for services when appropriate
• Facilitate warm handoffs to community providers when possible Team Collaboration and Documentation (10%)
• Participate in weekly treatment team meetings sharing peer perspective
• Collaborate with clinical staff to support treatment plan goals
• Document peer support contacts and activities in approved format
• Contribute to discharge planning from peer/recovery perspective
• Attend supervision meetings with Program Coordinator
• Participate in ongoing peer specialist training and development

Required Qualifications Certification and Education:

• Florida Certified Peer Specialist credential (or ability to obtain within 6 months of hire)
• High school diploma or GED required
• Some college coursework preferred but not required

Experience:

• Personal lived experience with mental health recovery (required)
• Minimum 1 year in sustained recovery demonstrating wellness and stability
• Previous peer support work experience preferred
• Experience with criminal justice system highly desirable
• Familiarity with severe and persistent mental illness (schizophrenia, bipolar) strongly preferred

Skills and Competencies:

• Ability to share personal story appropriately while maintaining professional boundaries
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Active listening and empathy
• Nonjudgmental, respectful, and person-centered approach
• Cultural sensitivity and ability to work with diverse populations
• Basic computer skills and ability to learn documentation systems
• Reliable, punctual, and professional demeanor
• Commitment to recovery principles and values
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and respect privacy

Other Requirements:

• Must pass comprehensive background check (some criminal history may be acceptable depending on nature, time elapsed, and evidence of rehabilitation)
• Must obtain security clearance for jail facility access
• Ability to work in correctional environment
• Reliable transportation and valid Florida driver's license
• CPR/First Aid certification (or willing to obtain)
• Commitment to ongoing recovery and wellness practices
• Regular supervision and support for self-care Physical Demands and Work Environment
• Work performed in secure correctional facility
• Daily interaction with individuals with serious mental illness and criminal charges
• May be exposed to stories of trauma, violence, or other difficult content
• Requires self-awareness and self-care to prevent vicarious trauma
• Standing, sitting, and walking throughout the workday
• Monday-Friday schedule, typically between 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
• Ongoing support and supervision provided to maintain wellness Special Considerations for

This Role Boundaries and Self-Care:

• Regular supervision to maintain healthy boundaries between peer and professional roles
• Access to clinical supervision when challenging situations arise
• Encouraged to maintain personal recovery practices and supports
• Not expected to provide clinical therapy or case management
• Role is to inspire hope, share experience, and walk alongside in recovery journey Value to the

Program:

• Brings unique perspective that professional credentials cannot replicate
• Demonstrates recovery is possible even in difficult circumstances
• Reduces stigma and increases engagement in treatment
• Bridges gap between clinical services and lived experience
• Serves as powerful role model for participants Qualifications Certified as a Peer Support Specialist with relevant training in crisis intervention and crisis management.

Demonstrated experience in behavioral health, mental health counseling, or addiction counseling preferred. Strong understanding of social work principles and motivational interviewing techniques. Ability to handle crisis situations calmly and effectively while maintaining a positive, supportive attitude. Excellent communication skills with the capacity to mentor and motivate diverse populations. Familiarity with Electronic Health Record (EHR) systems for documentation purposes. Passionate about empowering others through lived experience, empathy, and active listening. This role is ideal for energetic individuals eager to make a lasting impact by supporting recovery journeys through compassionate peer engagement. Join us in creating a supportive environment where hope thrives!

Pay:

$17.00 - $20.00 per hour

Work Location:

In person