Peer Recovery Specialist (SUD) - ULSTER COUNTY

Independent Living Inc • Ulster County, NY

11h • Onsite

About The Position

The Peer Recovery Specialist (SUD) provides peer-based support, advocacy, education, and mentorship to individuals and families impacted by substance use disorders. Drawing upon lived experience and recovery-oriented practices, this role empowers individuals to identify personal goals, strengthen self-advocacy skills, access community resources, and achieve greater independence and wellness. The Peer Recovery Specialist works collaboratively with treatment providers, community partners, and families to promote engagement, recovery, and sustained community integration.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent required; bachelor's degree in Human Services or a related field preferred.
• Minimum of two years of peer support, advocacy, coaching, or related experience.
• Lived experience with substance use recovery, either personally or through supporting a family member or close friend, and comfort with purposeful self-disclosure when appropriate.
• Working knowledge of the recovery process and a commitment to promoting multiple pathways to recovery.
• Strong interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills.
• Excellent organizational and time-management abilities, with the capacity to work independently.
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation.
• Willingness to complete approved advocacy training programs within the first six months of employment.

Nice To Haves

• Certified Recovery Peer Advocate (CRPA) credential.
• New York Certified Peer Specialist (NYCPS) certification.
• Experience facilitating peer support groups or recovery-focused educational programs.
• Bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish.
• Knowledge of American Sign Language (ASL).

Responsibilities

• Provide peer support and encouragement to individuals throughout all stages of recovery.
• Promote and advocate for multiple pathways to recovery, including partnerships with Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) programs.
• Assist individuals and families in understanding and navigating treatment systems, community resources, and insurance-related barriers to care.
• Facilitate support groups, educational workshops, and skill-building activities focused on substance use recovery and wellness.
• Partner with individuals to develop person-centered recovery plans and self-directed wellness goals.
• Connect individuals with resources related to housing, employment, education, transportation, benefits, legal assistance, healthcare, and other community supports.
• Serve as a mentor and role model, encouraging self-advocacy, informed decision-making, and independence.
• Provide support during times of crisis and assist individuals in identifying effective recovery-oriented coping strategies.
• Advocate for individuals' rights and address barriers to accessing services and supports.
• Collaborate with community providers and partner organizations to maintain an integrated network of support services.
• Educate individuals, families, and community stakeholders about substance use disorders, recovery resources, and available supports.
• Maintain accurate documentation, complete required reports, and enter program data within established timeframes.
• Participate in required meetings, trainings, and partner-site onboarding activities necessary to fulfill job responsibilities.

Benefits

• Paid holidays from the first day of employment
• Paid lunch break
• Paid time off
• 401(k) with company match
• Health, Dental and Vision insurance
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
• Company provided Life, AD&D and Short- and Long-Term disability insurance
• Voluntary insurances including Critical Illness and Hospital Indemnity

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED