(PSS) Peer Support Specialist- Part Time
About The Position
The Peer Support Specialist supports a structured, recovery-oriented therapeutic environment in a residential substance use disorder treatment setting. The role combines peer support with milieu leadership to promote patient engagement, reinforce recovery culture, and support daily programming. Drawing on lived experience and behavioral health knowledge, the specialist provides non-clinical peer mentorship and helps staff maintain a safe, structured, recovery-focused environment. The role includes engaging patients during admission, detoxification, transitions in care, and throughout treatment. It does not include clinical assessments, therapy, treatment planning, or medical decision-making. The position is based at The Recovery Village Salem Drug and Alcohol Rehab in Salem, Oregon. The posting describes the role as part-time, up to 20 hours per week, with some weekends required. Pay is $25–$27 per hour.
Requirements
- Active Peer Support Specialist (PSS) certification through the Oregon Health Authority is stated near the top of the posting; the qualifications section also accepts Traditional Health Worker (THW) Peer Support Specialist (PSS) or Peer Wellness Specialist (PWS) certification, or the ability to obtain certification within six months of hire.
- At least three years of experience in behavioral health or a related field.
- An associate or bachelor's degree in behavioral health, social work, psychology, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
- A good driving record that meets safety and company insurance standards.
- Ability to maintain strict confidentiality.
- Knowledge of trauma-informed care, de-escalation techniques, co-occurring disorders, stages of change, and confidentiality laws including HIPAA and 42 CFR Part 2.
Nice To Haves
- At least one year of experience working in a treatment setting and/or a substance abuse or recovery agency is preferred.
Responsibilities
- Provide peer-based recovery support.
- Engage patients during admission and treatment.
- Support patients in identifying recovery goals.
- Facilitate peer recovery groups.
- Support therapeutic milieu structure.
- Assist with de-escalation within the scope of the role.
- Observe and report behavioral changes.
- Support transitions and discharge planning.
- Document services in accordance with program requirements.
- Maintain professional boundaries and strict confidentiality.
- Assist in developing and coordinating a monthly patient activities calendar, including onsite and offsite activities.
- Provide program information to prospective clients and families as needed.
- Maintain clear communication with supervisors and co-workers.
- Participate in staff meetings as needed.
- Perform other duties as assigned by supervisors.
Benefits
- Health insurance
- Vision insurance
- Dental insurance
- MD Live telehealth benefit
- Employer-matched 401(k)
- Short-term disability insurance
- Long-term disability insurance
- Employer-paid term life insurance up to $50,000
- Employer-matched HSA with up to $1,500 per year in company contributions
- Employee wellness program that can reduce employee premiums by $40 per month
- Paid time off, including vacation, personal, holiday, and sick time
- Employee referral bonus
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Part-time
Education Level
Associate degree
