Peer Support Specialist (HVRP) Job Details Job Location Pikeville - 173 Redale - Pikeville, KY Position Type Full Time Education Level High School Salary Range $14.90 - $14.90 Hourly Description Position Summary: The Peer Support Specialist assists program participants in developing skills and competencies needed to successfully live and work within a community. This role provides recovery support, education, and advocacy to participants. Essential Job Functions include those listed below. Essential Job Functions: • Conducts skills building groups and other activities to empower program participants, under the guidance of the Program Director or designee; • Provides coaching and mentoring services that help program participants to integrate into their community and become successful, productive residents; • Acts as an advocate on behalf of their assigned program participant(s); • Attends and participates in training activities and meetings as required; • Supervises program participants under the direction of the Program Director or designee, reporting unusual changes as they occur; • Facilitates mentoring, discipline, safety, and observation of participants; • Utilizes approved crisis intervention techniques to assist with de-escalation of situations, ensuring program participant, staff, and visitor safety; • Participates in 24/7 coverage by working a flexible schedule, properly tracking hours worked, and consistently arriving to scheduled shifts on time; • Transports participants to school or medical appointments as required (if authorized); • Monitors participant whereabouts to be sure they remain on WestCare property, or have appropriate paperwork needed to leave WestCare property; • Assists in the implementation of recreational activities for program participants, participating where appropriate; • Ensures the facility is kept clean and in working order; • Embraces and embodies the mission, vision, guiding principles, clinical vision and goals of WestCare Foundation; • Performs any other duties as assigned. Qualifications Essential Qualifications: Certifications/Licensures: • Relevant certification and/or licensure is preferred; preference will be given to certified candidates; • Valid driver’s license and the ability to obtain and maintain WestCare’s vehicle insurance is required. Education: • Graduation from an accredited four-year college with a degree in Counseling, Criminal Justice, Social Work, Psychology or other field related to the position is preferred; • High School Diploma or equivalent is required. Experience and Competencies: • Two (2) years’ experience in workforce development, counseling, social work, or comparable field is required; • Two (2) or more years working in a behavioral health environment is preferred; • Ability to effectively coach and provide guidance is required; • Experience working with individuals struggling with substance abuse and mental health disorders preferred; • Ability to form and maintain effective, professional, and positive relationships with staff, volunteers, and program participants required; • Ability to work well, both individually and as part of a team required; • Ability to exercise good judgement and discretion required; • Ability to maintain a professional appearance and demeanor required; • Excellent verbal and written communication skills required