Employment Status: Full-Time
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Minimum Qualifications: High School Diploma/GED, minimum of one year working with individuals with substance use and mental health challenges
Preferred Qualifications: Certified & Registered as a Registered Virginia Peer Recovery Specialist (CPRS), minimum of two years of experience working with individuals with substance use and mental health challenges
Direct Supervisor: Court Services Deputy Director
Primary Work Location: Office setting and may include community-based settings
Physical requirements: This is sedentary work requiring the exertion of up to 20 pounds of force occasionally and a negligible amount of force frequently or constantly to move objects
Job Summary: The Peer Support Specialist is a person with lived experience in substance use recovery and/or mental health challenges who uses their experience, training, and recovery knowledge to provide hope, support, mentorship, and resources to individuals seeking stabilization, treatment, or long-term recovery. The Peer Support Specialist promotes recovery, resilience, and self-advocacy while working as part of a multidisciplinary team.
Essential Job Functions
An employee in this position may be called upon to do any or all of the following essential duties:
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Provide one-on-one peer support to individuals experiencing substance use and/or mental health challenges
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Share lived experience strategically and appropriately to build trust and empower participants
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Facilitate peer-led groups, wellness activities, and recovery-oriented discussions
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Assist participants in identifying strengths, setting personal recovery goals, and developing individualized recovery plans
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Provide emotional support, active listening, encouragement, and crisis de-escalation within scope of role
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Help participants connect with community resources (housing, healthcare, harm reduction, treatment programs, support groups, education, employment services, etc.)
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Support participants in navigating systems of care, including scheduling appointments, transportation coordination, and completing applications
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Maintain accurate documentation in accordance with agency policies and confidentiality laws (HIPAA, 42 CFR Part 2, etc.)
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Collaborate with clinical staff, case managers, and multidisciplinary team members to support holistic care
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Model healthy boundaries, self-care, and ongoing recovery practices
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Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and supervision sessions
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Uphold ethical guidelines and maintain compliance with state and organizational peer support standards
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Perform related tasks as required
Qualifications
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Must identify as a person with lived experience of substance use recovery, mental health recovery, or co-occurring challenges
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Experience working in behavioral health, recovery programs, shelters, residential treatment, or peer-run organizations
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Knowledge of local treatment services, recovery groups, and community resources
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Must be willing to share personal recovery experience appropriately as part of service delivery
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Recovery status consistent with program and licensing requirements (e.g., minimum 1–2 years in stable recovery, depending on state/agency expectations)
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Peer Support Certification or ability to obtain certification within required timeframe (state-specific)
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Ability to build positive, supportive relationships with diverse individuals
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Strong communication, boundaries, and interpersonal skills
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Familiarity with trauma-informed care, harm reduction, recovery models, and cultural humility
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Ability to maintain confidentiality and follow agency policies
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Basic computer and documentation skills
Skills
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Public speaking, oral and written communication
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Microsoft Office experience required
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Valid Driver’s License
Abilities
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Successfully complete a criminal background investigation
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Manage multiple tasks, meet deadlines, organize and prioritize work
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Regular work attendance is required. May involve travel, flexible hours, evenings or weekends depending on program
To Apply
Application review will begin as soon as possible. Position open until filled.
Rockingham County is an Equal Opportunity Employer
