Peer Navigator (DOC)

Location: Washington, DC
Organization: Unity Health Care
Employment Type: Full-Time

At Unity Health Care, we strive to serve all people with the highest quality, compassionate health care. Our mission is rooted in providing comprehensive, culturally competent services to our communities, including individuals from underserved and vulnerable populations.Through our partnership with the D.C. Department of Corrections, Unity provides comprehensive health and behavioral health services to individuals within correctional facilities and supports continuity of care as individuals transition back into the community.

Under the direction of the Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Program Director, the Peer Navigator supports individuals recovering from substance use disorders within the Central Detention Facility (CDF) and Correctional Treatment Facility (CTF), jointly known as the DC Jail. As part of the SUD team, the Peer Navigator provides non-clinical peer support, encouragement, education, and recovery navigation services. The Peer Navigator serves as a role model, mentor, advocate, and motivator to help individuals engage in treatment, prevent relapse, and work toward long-term recovery.This position requires the ability to build authentic peer-to-peer relationships, coordinate with the SUD treatment team, connect individuals with community resources, and provide support during incarceration and after release.

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Two (2) years of work experience related to behavioral health and/or substance use disorders.
• Two (2) years of experience as a Community Health Worker, Peer Recovery Specialist, or similar peer support role working with diverse populations.
• Knowledge of Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT).
• Understanding of and respect for each individual's unique path to recovery.
• Working knowledge of the substance use disorder treatment system and demonstrated commitment to the recovery community.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to work effectively with patients, multidisciplinary teams, managers, supervisors, community organizations, and other partners.
• Strong critical thinking, problem-solving, organizational, and time-management skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and other business software.
• Ability to navigate and enter information into an Electronic Medical Record (EMR).
• Ability to maintain and protect patient confidentiality.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Active certification or waiver as a Peer Specialist or Recovery Coach through the Department of Behavioral Health Certified Peer Specialist Training Program, or willingness to obtain certification within six months of hire.
• Personal experience with recovery and a minimum of two years of professional experience providing peer support or navigation services in a substance use disorder setting.

• Join a mission-driven organization committed to serving underserved and vulnerable communities.
• Make a meaningful impact by supporting individuals throughout their recovery journey.
• Work as part of a multidisciplinary team focused on behavioral health, substance use recovery, and continuity of care.
• Help connect individuals with treatment, recovery resources, and community-based support services.
• Support individuals as they transition from correctional facilities back into the community.
• Gain opportunities for professional development, training, and continued growth.