Youth Peer Support Specialist

Penobscot Community Health Care•Hampden, ME

2h•$18 - $26

About The Position

Penobscot Community Health Care is seeking a Youth Peer Support Specialist (YPSS) to join our Behavioral Health Home team. This is a unique opportunity for someone who has navigated their own mental health, substance use, or life challenges and wants to use that lived experience to support and empower youth on their recovery journey. As a Youth Peer Support Specialist, you'll build meaningful relationships with young people, provide mentorship and encouragement, help them navigate complex systems, and serve as a powerful reminder that recovery, resilience, and hope are possible. If you're passionate about supporting others, advocating for youth, and making a lasting difference in your community, we'd love to connect with you.

Requirements

High School Diploma or equivalent required
Completion of the Youth Peer Support full Certification requirements as indicated by the State of Maine within 12 months of hire. Office of Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services (SAMHS curriculum for CIPSS). Provisional Curriculum must be completed, and certificate awarded within 9 months of employment. Maintain YPSS certification, once achieved.
Will have up-to-date training and certification in Healthcare Provider Basic Life Support issued by American Heart Association, American Red Cross, or American Health & Safety Institute. Must obtain within 2 weeks if not current at hire.
Having a valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record and/or an appropriate length of driving experience for insurance purposes is required. Any concerns raised by the results of a driving record check will be subject to an individualized review to determine whether the infraction is relevant to the individual's ability to perform the responsibilities of the position in accordance with PCHC's Automobile Safety and Background Check Policy.

Nice To Haves

Previous Experience with Electronic Health Record preferred.

Responsibilities

Use personal recovery journey to inspire hope, build trust, and help youth recognize their own strengths, resilience, and potential.
Support youth through authentic connection, active listening, shared understanding, and encouragement as they navigate challenges and work toward their goals.
Partner with youth to identify personal goals, develop recovery plans, strengthen coping skills, and celebrate progress.
Help youth find their voice, build confidence, access resources, and navigate healthcare, education, community, and social support systems.
Work alongside Care Coordinators, providers, social workers, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to support whole-person care and positive outcomes.
Assist youth in accessing peer supports, community programs, educational opportunities, employment resources, and other services that support long-term success.
Play a meaningful role in helping young people build brighter futures while supporting PCHC's commitment to accessible, compassionate, and community-focused care.