Peer Recovery Specialist - New Pathways Project

SERVICE AREA: Housing & Justice Related Services (HJRS)

PROGRAM: New Pathways Project (NPP) Recovery Support Services (RSS)

JOB OVERVIEW:

The Recovery Support Services program, an enhancement service for the New Pathways Project, supports individuals in recovery from substance use disorders. The Recovery Support Services program provides non-clinical services that assist individuals in recovery in gaining the skills and resources needed to initiate, maintain, and sustain long-term recovery. The RSS program offers services such as care coordination, recovery coaching, group support, supported employment/training, transportation, and assistance with accessing recovery housing. Recovery support services are not a substitute for clinical services. Recovery support programs are person-centered and self-directed, allowing the individual in recovery the choice of provider.

The Peer Recovery Specialist provides recovery-oriented support services to individuals experiencing substance use and/or mental health challenges. Utilizing lived experience, the Peer Recovery Specialist fosters trust, promotes empowerment, provides emotional support and encouragement, helps individuals build coping skills for maintaining sobriety, and assists individuals in navigating treatment, resources, and community support systems. This role involves collaboration with clinical teams, if necessary, advocacy, and engagement with individuals to support their recovery journey.

MISSION & VISION:

PHMC works to create and sustain healthier communities through partnerships with government, foundations, businesses, and community-based organizations. We envision a healthier community for all.

• Integrity – We are committed to building and sustaining trust across our teams, partners, and funders.
• Impact – Our work is purposeful and rooted in a data-driven approach.
• Accountability – We hold ourselves and each other responsible for getting things done, effectively managing resources, and achieving sustainable results.
• Inclusion & Collaboration – We value and respect the inherent difference of all individuals, strive to amplify those voices and experiences, and are committed to working together to convene diverse perspectives, talents, and approaches to public health.
• Credibility – We are a trusted resource that delivers innovative approaches and reliable services to the communities that depend on us.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

The following outlines key responsibilities. Additional duties may be assigned as needed.

• Provide peer-based support, guidance, and encouragement to individuals in recovery.
• Assist individuals in developing personalized recovery plans.
• Serve as a liaison between individuals and service providers, helping to navigate healthcare and community support systems.
• Facilitate peer support groups, workshops, or educational sessions.
• Advocate for individuals’ rights and needs within treatment and community settings.
• Document interactions and maintain accurate records in accordance with organizational policies.
• Promote harm reduction strategies and wellness-based approaches.
• Support crisis intervention efforts and collaborate with crisis teams as needed.
• Maintain confidentiality and uphold ethical peer support principles.
• Maintain flexibility to provide necessary support to individuals after hours, evenings, weekends, and some holidays.
• Provide on-call support to all participants to assist with crisis support.
• Be responsible for meeting with clients regularly, identifying community linkages to support client recovery efforts, conducting outreach to clients at treatment facilities in the community, attending client recovery plan meetings, and meeting clients at their appointments.
• Manage and oversee a caseload of up to 30 individuals at any given time.
• Provide recovery education and coaching. Offer recovery information; encouragement; support; enhancement of self-management skills; recovery resource identification (this can include escorting to appointments for benefits enrollment in vocational/job training services, and housing search); warm handoffs and navigation to and within addiction treatment services and other human services; mentorship; and modeling of recovery lifestyle.

WORK HABITS:

• Demonstrates reliability, punctuality, and accountability
• Maintains professional and respectful interactions with individuals, colleagues, and stakeholders
• Upholds ethical and confidentiality standards
• Works collaboratively in a team-oriented environment
• Displays cultural competence and sensitivity

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT:

• Engage in ongoing training and continuing education to maintain certification.
• Stay informed on best practices in peer support and recovery-oriented care.
• Participate in supervision, team meetings, and professional development activities.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Strong understanding of recovery principles and peer support best practices
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to establish rapport and build trusting relationships
• Problem-solving and advocacy skills
• Familiarity with trauma-informed care and motivational interviewing techniques
• Basic computer skills for documentation and communication

WORK LOCATIONS & SCHEDULE:

• Primary Location: 2539 Germantown Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19133
• Work will be performed in community settings, treatment facilities, hospitals, or office environments.
• Travel will be required for outreach and client meetings.
• The typical schedule for this position is Monday through Friday, 8:30 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. However, the Peer Recovery Specialist must maintain flexibility to work evening, weekend, and some holiday hours if necessary to support participants.
• On-call responsibility on a rotating basis

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability to manage high-stress situations
• Regular data entry
• Ability to sit, stand, and walk for extended periods when necessary
• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs. occasionally
• Must be able to travel within the community as needed

QUALIFICATIONS:

Required

• High school diploma or GED
• Lived experience in recovery from substance use, with a sustained recovery period
• Certification as a Recovery Specialist (CRS) in Pennsylvania, or willingness to become certified within 90 days of employment
• Knowledge of community resources and recovery support services

Preferred

• Associate or bachelor’s degree in social work, psychology, or a related field
• Additional peer support certifications or specialized training
• Lived experience with mental health challenges
• Experience working in peer support, case management, or a related field
• Experience working in community-based, clinical, or outreach settings

PAY GRADE: 13

For additional information on Forensic Services, please visit the Forensic Services website: www.forensicservicesphilly.org

PHMC is an Equal Opportunity and E-Verify Employer.

Qualifications Skills Preferred Verbal Communication Advanced Effective Communication Advanced Active Listening Advanced Behaviors Preferred Team Player: Works well as a member of a group Innovative: Consistently introduces new ideas and demonstrates original thinking Dedicated: Devoted to a task or purpose with loyalty or integrity Education Required High School or better. Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
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