Peer Mobile Emergency Response Specialist

Independent Living•Cornwall, NY

6d•$25

About The Position

Peer Mobile Emergency Response Specialist Full-time Cornwall, NY Reports to: Emergency Response Clinical Manager Schedule: Tuesday - Saturday 10a - 6p Pay Rate: $25.00/hr Benefits: 401(k) Health insurance Dental insurance Vision insurance Life insurance Flexible Spending Account (FSA) Paid time off Paid holidays from the first day of employment Paid lunch break About Independent Living, Inc. Since 1987, Independent Living Inc. (ILI) has been increasing access, encouraging self-determination, and advocating for the rights of people with disabilities in the Hudson Valley, of New York. Following the traditional independent living center (ILC) model, the majority of ILI’s board and staff are individuals with disabilities and community members’ lives are enriched by having services provided from a peer, life-experience perspective. Independent Living, Inc. offers full-time employees excellent medical, dental and vision benefits, company matched 401(k), paid holidays, generous paid time off, and competitive wages. Why Work with Us? For Independent Living, Inc., this is more than a job. It is a chance to turn your lived experience into a source of hope and healing for others. You will join a supportive team that values your unique perspective and helps you grow. Together, we will respond to emergencies with compassion and care to make a real difference in the community. If your lived experience has taught you resilience and compassion, and you want to help others in their recovery journey, we encourage you to apply. Your story matters here. We strongly encourage individuals with disabilities and those from diverse backgrounds to apply. Your Experience Matters If you have personal lived experience with mental health, substance use, or co-occurring challenges and want to help others, this role could be a great fit for you. As a Peer Mobile Emergency Response Specialist, you will work as part of a first-response team to support people facing crisis or pre-crisis situations related to substance use and co-occurring disorders. Your lived experience is a valuable strength. You will use your empathy and understanding to provide flexible, compassionate support during difficult moments. Formal education is helpful but not required, your personal journey, resilience, and growth are just as important

Requirements

You have lived experience with mental health, substance use disorder, or co-occurring conditions and feel comfortable sharing your story when it helps others.
You have or are willing to earn NYCPS or CPRA certification within your first year.
A bachelor’s degree in human services or a related field is preferred but not required.
You are bilingual in English and Spanish (strongly preferred).
You know or want to learn about community resources, including addiction services, transportation, support groups, and more.
You have strong communication skills, good time management, and can work independently.
You hold a valid driver’s license and have reliable transportation.
You understand or are eager to learn about wellness and recovery principles, crisis interventions, and suicide prevention.

Nice To Haves

Certified Recovery Peer Advocate (CRPA), or willing to obtain NYCPS (New York Certified Peer Specialist) certification is a plus
High school diploma or equivalent (bachelor’s in human services is a bonus, but not required)
Two years of peer coaching, advocacy, or related experience
Bilingual in English/Spanish strongly preferred (ASL is a plus)
Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation

Responsibilities

Work closely with the Independent Living team, Program Manager, clinical partners, and emergency medical services to respond to emergencies involving substance use and co-occurring disorders.
Provide highly individualized and responsive peer support when individuals are most vulnerable.
Stay on scene with clinical team members when needed, offering connection and peer support.
Collaborate with clinical partners and EMS to develop plans that help individuals overcome emergencies, prevent relapse, and avoid repeat crises.
Educate individuals, families, and supporters about harm reduction strategies.
Maintain up-to-date knowledge of community resources and assist people in accessing treatment and services.
Advocate for individuals by helping protect their rights, resolve complaints, and navigate community supports of their choice.
Refer individuals to the Orange County Crisis Call Center for ongoing support.
Represent consumer concerns to program leaders to improve services and systems.
Encourage personal empowerment, self-determination, and the development of independent living skills.
Complete all required reports and statistical documentation on time.
Attend and actively participate in all relevant meetings and training sessions.