Peer Support Specialist
About The Position
Peer Support Specialists take the lead on engagement and may provide non-clinical assistance to consumers after an initial crisis has been resolved. They must demonstrate competency in peer-to-peer support before providing services independently. The 988 Program provides 24/7 mobile community outreach to adults experiencing mental health, substance use, or suicidal crises. Staff respond in teams of two—a Crisis Response Specialist and a Peer Support Specialist—to provide assessment, risk assessment, safety planning, service linkage, and follow-up care. The program seeks to de-escalate crises without law enforcement involvement unless needed for the safety of the consumer or team. This is a full-time day position with scheduled hours of 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The listed location is Berlin, New Jersey, serving Gloucester, Salem, and Camden.
Requirements
- High school education level.
- Crisis intervention training.
- At least 2 years of continuous recovery from an SMI or SUD diagnosis.
- At least 1 year of field experience working with community individuals.
- Participation in DMHAS-approved de-escalation, mental health crisis, substance use crisis, and suicide training.
- Certification from at least one of the listed credentialing entities: Addiction Professional Certification Board (CRSP or CPRS); Mental Health Association in New Jersey (CRSP); or NAADAC (NCPRSS, Certified Wellness Coach, or Community Mental Health Associate certificate).
- Driver's license in good standing, with no recent suspensions or violations for careless/reckless driving or excessive speeding of more than 20 MPH, and no more than 2 moving violations in the last 3 years.
Responsibilities
- Take the lead on engagement with consumers.
- Provide non-clinical support to consumers after the initial crisis has been resolved.
- Demonstrate competency in peer-to-peer support before rendering services independently.
- Respond to crises as part of a two-person team.
- Participate in assessment, risk assessment, safety planning, linkage to services, and follow-up care.
- Support crisis de-escalation without law enforcement unless necessary for consumer or team safety.
Benefits
- 3.2 weeks of paid time off during the first year
- Medical insurance
- Vision insurance
- Dental insurance
- Life insurance
- 403(b) employee participation and employer match
- 9 agency-paid holidays
- Training opportunities throughout the year
- Biannual retention bonus of $1,250
- Tuition reimbursement after 1 year of employment
Stand Out From the Crowd
Upload your resume and get instant feedback on how well it matches this job.
What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Education Level
High school or GED
