Peer Navigator

IO Management Company LLC•Cottage Grove, OR

About The Position

Ideal Option is seeking a Peer Navigator for Lane County, Oregon. The role supports the company’s work providing low-barrier, evidence-based treatment for opioid use disorder and its vision to restore lives, reunite families, and heal communities affected by substance use disorder. The ideal candidate has strong engagement skills, lived experience in recovery, and the ability to build trust with people experiencing homelessness, substance use disorders, justice system involvement, and other barriers to care. The Peer Navigator provides outreach, advocacy, care coordination, peer support, and documentation of services.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
At least two years clean and sober with lived recovery experience.
Experience working with vulnerable populations, including individuals experiencing homelessness, substance use disorders, mental illness, and justice system involvement.
Strong communication, interpersonal, and de-escalation skills.
Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
Basic computer and documentation skills.
Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.
Must live in Lane County, Oregon, and be familiar with local resources and service systems.
Ability to respectfully engage and develop a working alliance with the people served.
Demonstrates a compassionate, trauma-informed approach when supporting individuals with diverse needs and experiences.
Maintains strong professional boundaries while fostering trust and rapport.
Exhibits cultural humility and respect when working with individuals from diverse backgrounds and communities.
Skilled in engaging and building relationships with individuals who may be hesitant or resistant to services.
Dependable, adaptable, and proactive in identifying solutions and responding to changing situations.

Nice To Haves

Experience serving populations impacted by extreme poverty, behavioral health conditions, and mental illness using a harm reduction model of care.
Certified Recovery Mentor (CRM).
Qualified Mental Health Associate (QMHA).
Previous Forensic Peer Endorsement experience.

Responsibilities

Respond alongside EMS and community partners to assist individuals with non-medical social and behavioral health needs.
Conduct outreach and engagement with individuals experiencing homelessness, substance use disorders, mental health challenges, and food insecurity.
Connect individuals with community resources, including emergency and transitional housing, substance use treatment programs, Medication Assisted Treatment services, mental health services, food and clothing resources, transportation, and benefits assistance.
Provide peer support, encouragement, and recovery-oriented coaching.
Assist individuals in navigating complex systems and overcoming barriers to services.
Advocate for clients with community providers and partner agencies.
Maintain accurate and timely documentation of client interactions, referrals, and follow-up activities.
Collaborate with EMS personnel, hospitals, behavioral health providers, shelters, law enforcement, and community organizations.
Participate in team meetings, case coordination, and ongoing training opportunities.
Maintain confidentiality and professional boundaries in accordance with agency policies and HIPAA requirements.