Peer Navigator - Hep C Free Program - MD161

Native American Rehabilitation Assoc. of the NW•Portland, OR

20d•$23 - $28•Onsite

About The Position

The Hep C Peer Navigator provides outreach, engagement, and peer-based support services for individuals participating in or eligible for the Hep C program, including those diagnosed with Hepatitis C and those at risk. Drawing from lived experience, this role builds trusting relationships with clients to support engagement in care, recovery, and wellness. The Peer Navigator helps individuals navigate services, reduce barriers to care, and stay connected to medical, behavioral health, substance use disorder (SUD) treatment, and social services. This position promotes hope, empowerment, and self-advocacy to improve overall health outcomes.

Requirements

High school diploma, GED, or equivalent required.
Understanding of recovery principles, peer support values, and trauma-informed care.
Knowledge of or willingness to learn about Hepatitis C, including prevention, treatment, and engagement strategies.
Ability to use lived experience in a professional and appropriate manner to support others.
Experience working with diverse populations, including individuals impacted by substance use disorder and intergenerational trauma.
Ability to engage, motivate, and support clients in various stages of change and recovery.
Strong written and oral communication skills.
Ability to work collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary team.
Ability to maintain professional boundaries with clients, the community, and staff members.
Ability to work in both indoor and outdoor environments and manage competing priorities.
Willingness and ability to work a flexible schedule.
Must pass a pre-employment or for cause drug tests.
Must pass criminal background and DMV checks.

Nice To Haves

Experience working within the Native American/Alaska Native community is considered a plus.
Lived experience with recovery from substance use and/or mental health challenges strongly preferred.
Experience providing peer support, outreach, or working in behavioral health, SUD treatment, or community-based services preferred.
Experience working with individuals affected by substance use, homelessness, or chronic health conditions such as Hepatitis C preferred.
High degree of cultural humility and willingness to learn.

Responsibilities

Conduct outreach and engagement with individuals who have Hepatitis C or are at risk, including those not yet connected to care.
Use lived experience to provide peer support, encouragement, and mentorship to individuals navigating Hep C diagnosis, treatment, and recovery.
Build trusting, supportive relationships that promote client engagement and retention in care.
Assist clients in accessing and navigating internal and external services, including primary care, Hep C treatment, mental health, psychiatry, SUD treatment, and social services.
Share personal recovery experiences appropriately to inspire hope and model pathways to wellness.
Support clients in identifying personal goals and developing self-advocacy skills.
Coordinate referrals and follow up with clients to encourage ongoing engagement and continuity of care.
Escort clients to appointments (medical, behavioral health, or social services) when appropriate.
Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams including medical providers, behavioral health staff, case managers, and housing/support service staff.
Assist clients in overcoming barriers to care, including transportation, stigma, scheduling, and system navigation challenges.
Provide education and support related to Hepatitis C prevention, treatment, and recovery.
Support relapse prevention and promote health-care engagement.