Peer Support Specialist (53542)

Westcare•Susupe, MP

About The Position

The Peer Support Specialist provides peer-based support, outreach, engagement, mentorship, and resource navigation to Veterans and eligible Service Members participating in the Staff Sergeant Parker Gordon Fox Suicide Prevention Grant Program (SSG Fox SPGP). Drawing on lived experience, training, and recovery-oriented practices, the specialist promotes hope, resilience, social connectedness, and participant engagement while supporting access to services and community resources. The specialist works collaboratively with program staff to support participant wellness and reduce suicide risk using a Veteran-centered, strengths-based, and trauma-informed approach. Services are provided in accordance with applicable SSG Fox Program and VA requirements. The position is located in Saipan, CNMI, reports to the Program Manager, and supervises no staff. It is full-time, hourly, and non-exempt. Travel throughout the CNMI, including Tinian and Rota, is required as needed.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent required.
An equivalent combination of education, training, military service, lived experience, and relevant work experience may be substituted for education requirements.
Strong verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
Strong organizational and time management skills.
Ability to establish rapport and maintain supportive relationships with participants.
Ability to exercise sound judgment, maintain confidentiality, and establish professional boundaries.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and electronic data management systems.
Valid driver's license, reliable transportation, and ability to meet organizational driving requirements.
Ability to work independently while contributing to a collaborative team environment.
Must meet, or be willing and able to obtain, peer support training and qualifications consistent with applicable VA and SSG Fox Program requirements.
CPR and First Aid Certification, or ability to obtain within established organizational timelines.

Nice To Haves

Associate's degree in Human Services, Psychology, Social Work, Counseling, Public Health, Criminal Justice, or a related field preferred.
Experience providing peer support, mentoring, advocacy, outreach, Veteran services, behavioral health services, social services, or related human services preferred.
Veteran status and lived experience related to recovery, resilience, mental health challenges, or suicide prevention preferred.
Knowledge of recovery-oriented, trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and strengths-based practices preferred.
Knowledge of community resources, referral networks, and service systems preferred.

Responsibilities

Provide peer support, mentorship, and encouragement to participating Veterans and eligible Service Members.
Conduct outreach, engagement, and wellness check activities.
Promote recovery, resilience, self-advocacy, and social connectedness through peer-based support services.
Facilitate and/or support evidence-based and promising practice workshops, peer-led groups, educational programming, and other activities that promote recovery, resilience, wellness, and participant engagement.
Assist participants in accessing VA benefits, healthcare services, community resources, and other supports.
Accompany participants to appointments, activities, and service providers, as appropriate.
Collaborate with program staff and community partners to support participant engagement and continuity of care.
Maintain accurate documentation and collect required program data.
Participate in community outreach, education, and awareness activities.
Travel throughout the CNMI, including Tinian and Rota, as required.
Perform other duties as assigned.