Peer Support Specialist

POSITION SUMMARY:

Person in this position is someone that has direct lived experiences with substance abuse and has exhibited success in sustaining a crime and drug-free life for a minimum of two (2) consecutive years. This position provides peer leadership, outreach, advocacy, coaching and recovery support services to those seeking or sustain recovery within the community. The MAT Peer Support Specialist is responsible for transporting staff and necessary materials to designated locations to provide services to clients enrolled in the Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) program. While this role does not involve driving clients, it requires ensuring safe and timely transportation of team members to outreach locations.  

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Educate and refer clients to community agencies and businesses that appropriately address their need for food, shelter, clothing, employment, transportation, social service benefits, etc.
• Provide services that promote wellness, recovery, and resiliency.
• Assist clinical and outreach staff in providing education on MAT services and harm reduction strategies.
• Assist clients with establishing or re-establishing support systems within their community.
• Function as advocate on behalf of the patient to improve access to needed services, information, or treatment.
• Participate in clinical staffing decisions regarding the patients’ current strengths and resources and their need for additional resources.
• Provide support and supervision to program clients.
• Assist other WestCare staff as needed in a collaborative manner to promote cooperation and portray a professional image to the community.
• Facility involvement in recovery-related activities and assistance in planning, organization, and facility group recreational and social activities.
• Drive agency MAT vehicle to transport staff and necessary materials to service locations.
• Maintain log for vehicle service.
• Assist in setting up mobile service locations as needed.
• Must Embrace and embody the mission, vision, guiding principles, clinical vision, and goals of WestCare Foundation; and
• Perform all other duties as assigned.

ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the duties and responsibilities satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.

• Possession of a valid Class “E” Driver’s License, although a Class “C” is preferred.

• CPR Certification, First Aid Certification preferred. Will be required upon hire.
• Must be able to obtain and maintain DCF Level II background clearance.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Compassion, empathy, and a non-judgmental approach towards individuals with substance use disorders.
• Understanding to talk to and communicate with clients in an effective and appropriate manner.
• Bilingual/bicultural (English/Spanish) is preferred.
• Adherence to the highest standard of ethical conduct, especially to standards governing confidentiality.
• Professional appearance and demeanor.
• Must be culturally/linguistically sensitive to populations served.
• Must be able to qualify for WestCare vehicle insurance.
• During your tenure with WestCare there may be new requirements, including, but not limited to vaccinations that are issued by local, State, Federal, and/or Funders that WestCare may have to comply with. Should this occur Human Resources or appropriate personnel will inform you.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE:

• High School diploma or equivalent
• One (1) year experience within a social service setting or equivalent preferred.
• Lived experience and personal recovery from substance use disorders.
• Previous experience in peer support roles or related positions is preferred.
• An individual may seek certification as a peer specialist if he or she has been in recovery from a substance use disorder or mental illness for at least 2 years.
• Previous experience driving a medical vehicle preferred.
• EMS experience preferred.

LICENSURE/CERTIFICATION:

• If not certified at time of hire, must obtain certification within 1 year of hire date.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Work is primarily performed in the field at various locations while providing MAT services.
• Transportation of staff and medications in company vehicle; and
• Some outdoor activities may be required.
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WestCare is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment at WestCare is contingent upon successful completion of a pre-employment drug test, pre-employment physical and criminal background check.