Peer Support Specialist Apprentice – Department of Public Health & Environment

City and County of Denver • Denver, CO

11d • $24 - $36 • Hybrid

About The Position

Denver's Department of Public Health & Environment (DDPHE) is dedicated to advancing Denver's environmental and public health goals. DDPHE works collaboratively with city, state and community partners to conduct education, community engagement, and enforcement to promote healthy people, healthy pets, and a sustainable environment. DDPHE oversees a number of services related to public health and the environment and is comprised of seven divisions: Division of Shared Services and Business Operations; Community & Behavioral Health; Public Health Investigations; Denver Animal Protection; the Office of Medical Examiner; Emergency Management and Medical Operations; and Environmental Quality. For more information on DDPHE’s programs and services, visit the DDPHE website at: Denver Department of Public Health & Environment. We foster an inclusive culture by respecting the values, customs, and authenticity of everyone and by implementing equitable public health strategies so Denver communities can thrive. DDPHE is building a more representative workforce that reflects the diversity of Denver communities. We have two Peer Support Specialist Apprentice positions available for those interested in exploring a career in public and/or environmental health, public safety and community support. Peer Support Specialists with the City and County of Denver play an important role in building a more representative and inclusive public health and safety workforce that reflects the diverse communities of Denver. Peer Support Specialists use their lived experience, relationship-building skills, and knowledge of community resources to connect individuals with support, services, and opportunities that promote health and well-being. Prior training and certificates are not needed for this apprenticeship program. Specific requirements are to be completed within the 1-year on-the-job training period. These positions will rotate to two of five divisions/departments within the City and County of Denver for 6-month terms.

Requirements

• Graduation from high school or possession of a GED, HiSET or TASC Certificate.
• One (1) year of experience providing peer support as a volunteer or professional.
• A combination of appropriate education and experience may be substituted for the minimum education and experience requirements.
• None.

Nice To Haves

• Knowledge of Peer Support Services and an interest in becoming a Colorado Peer and Family Specialist
• Lived experience of mental health, substance use, trauma, and/or co-occurring conditions is highly valued
• Knowledge and experience with the Denver Criminal Justice system, court processes
• Understanding of Denver metro resources, services, and community support
• Skills in addressing the needs of people experiencing homelessness, individuals living with mental health and substance misuse conditions and other vulnerable populations.
• Bilingual Spanish proficiency is highly valued
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications and data entry experience
• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills
• Attention to detail, organization, and multitasking
• A willingness to learn new things
• Exceptional interpersonal skills
• Demonstrated commitment to justice, equity, diversity, accessibility, and inclusion

Responsibilities

• Build person-centered, trauma-informed relationships with clients using a peer support model.
• Apply Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA) Core Competencies for Peer Workers and National Practice Standards for Peer Supporters to deliver recovery-oriented, person-centered, voluntary, and relationship-focused services.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary City and County staff, including administrative professionals, paralegals, attorneys, nurses, outreach workers and other team members, to provide holistic, client-centered support.
• Leverage lived experience to foster hope and connect clients with recovery, behavioral health, community resources, and supportive services.
• Partner with clients to establish self-directed goals, identify resources and service needs, develop action plans, and monitor progress toward desired outcomes.
• Support community members by developing individualized support plans, and facilitating connections to community resources
• Coordinate and facilitate access to services by assisting clients with phone calls, accompanying them to court and community appointments, and navigating multiple service systems.
• Maintain accurate, timely documentation of client interactions, progress, and other activities in accordance with organizational standards.
• Complete DDPHE 60 hours Colorado Peer and Family Specialist (CPFS) training curriculum
• Pass CPFS exam and receive certification
• Participate and complete Colorado School of Public Health micro-credentialling program
• Other duties as needed and assigned

Benefits

• A guaranteed life-long monthly pension, once vested after 5 years of service
• 457B Retirement Plan
• 140 hours of PTO earned within first year + 12 paid holidays, 1 personal holiday, 1 Wellness Day and 1 volunteer day per year
• Competitive medical, dental and vision plans effective within 1 month of start date

What This Job Offers

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