Position Summary:

Person in this position will be responsible for providing peer-based support, outreach, and engagement services to veterans and service members at risk of suicide. Utilizing lived experience and trauma-informed care, the specialist builds trust with participants, connects them to essential services, and promotes hope, recovery, and wellness. Essential Job Functions include but not limited to those listed below.

Essential Job Functions:

Conduct community outreach and engagement activities to identify and connect with at-risk veterans and service members.

• Provide peer-to-peer support and mentorship using shared lived experience to foster trust and empowerment.
• Assist individuals in navigating mental health and substance use services, housing resources, crisis intervention, and other support systems.
• Collaborate with local VA facilities, community providers, and the broader support network to coordinate services and referrals.
• Participate in suicide prevention trainings and maintain knowledge of best practices related to peer support and veteran care.
• Maintain accurate and timely documentation of all interactions and services provided, in compliance with grant requirements and confidentiality standards.
• Support follow-up efforts with program participants to ensure continued engagement and service connection.
• Promote protective factors such as connectedness, resilience, and purpose among participants.
• Attend and participate in team meetings, supervision, and relevant community events.
• Must embrace and embody the mission, vision, guiding principles, clinical vision, and goals of WestCare Foundation.
• Other relevant 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.

• Strong communication, empathy, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently, manage time effectively, and maintain professional boundaries.
• Must be a veteran or current/former service member with lived experience navigating recovery, mental health challenges, or transitional issues.
• Adherence to the highest standard of ethical conduct, especially to standards governing confidentiality.
• Professional appearance and demeanor.
• Must be able to successfully obtain and maintain a criminal background clearance
• Valid driver’s license and ability to obtain and maintain WestCare’s vehicle insurance is required; and
• CPR Certification, First Aid Certification, and an annual Tuberculosis test.
• 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:

• Prior experience working with veteran populations and/or in suicide prevention is strongly preferred.
• High school diploma or equivalent required; additional education in social work, psychology, or human services preferred.

LICENSURE/CERTIFICATION:

• Certified Peer Support Specialist (or ability to obtain certification within 6 months).