JOB TITLE | Peer Support Specialist / Case Manager
REPORTS TO | Outpatient Program Manager
EMPLOYMENT STATUS | FULL-TIME, Nonexempt
POSITIONS SUPERVISED | None
LOCATION | Hanford, CA
SALARY RANGE | $20.00 - $22.00 Hour
JOB SUMMARY
Under the direct supervision of the Outpatient Program Manager, the Peer Support Specialist will provide peer support services as part of a multi-disciplinary team to persons with substance use disorders. Service provision will focus on working with clients to enhance their recovery.
RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES
Complies with all program policies and procedures; including State/Federal, Certification/Licensure, and other programmatic requirements.
To provide individualized, ongoing guidance, coaching and support
To Provide training in the use of personal and community resources
Assist in developing formal and informal community supports
Assist the person served in increasing social support networks of relatives, friends and/or significant others.
To offer encouragement in times of crisis
To advocate on behalf of persons with behavioral health problems to protect the client’s rights and to assist in reducing associated stigma.
To work in cooperation with other providers, family members or significant others involved in the client’s recovery plan.
To attain established standards of productivity
Ensures appropriate and comprehensive documentation within an EHR system.
Work collaboratively with Champions staff and referring parties and service providers.
Participates in staff meetings, in order to address client needs, program issues, and assist in the integration of services for clientele.
Facilitate psychoeducational, job readiness, and life skills groups and classes, as deemed appropriate by management.
Provides integration of all service divisions of the program, specifically acting as a bridge between disciplines such as mental health and probation.
Develops and maintains cooperative work relationships with community agencies and partners, including client connections to outside agencies (i.e., court hearings, open CPS cases and requirements, etc.)
Determines appropriate services available through the other Champions programs and other community agencies and completes “warm handoffs” for clients.
Complete intakes and eligibilities for potential clientele and verify completeness and accuracy of documents.
Serve as the main point of contact for all clients and relay client needs to the appropriate channels.
Participate in applicable meetings, trainings, conferences, etc. as required both internally and externally.
Remains culturally sensitive and respectful in all client and staff interactions.
Adheres to all client confidentiality requirements and standards, including updates of the shared Release of Information (ROI) to ensure that information is current and accurate.
Conducts community outreach on Champions services when needed.
Conducts urinalysis and breath testing of clients as needed.
Comfortable performing various projects in conjunction with day-to-day activities of the assigned program.
Ability to get along with diverse personalities; understanding, mature, and flexible.
Possess strong judgment, problem-solving and reasoning abilities.
Perform other duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS
High School Diploma or GED
Peer Support Specialist Certification preferred, but not required.
Must have valid California Class Driver’s License; maintain a good safety record (verified by DMV at hire and periodically) and a reliable vehicle; proof of liability insurance if driving personal vehicle.
First Aid and CPR certifications, obtain within 90 days of employment and maintain current thereafter.
Experience with culturally diverse population.
Ability to understand and interpret information, follow instructions and manage workflow.
Strong Interpersonal skills; ability to work effectively with people in a constructive manner within a community-based treatment setting.
Basic and routine computer keyboarding, programs and software and advanced office management practices and operating procedures.
Able to multi-task in a fast-paced environment, apply professional judgement in solving difficult issues, and to communicate in a clear, precise and professional manner.
Bilingual (English and Spanish speaking) preferred.
Criminal background clearance required.
Recovering individuals (preferred)- must have a minimum two years clean, sober and abstinent to be considered for employment.
Must be able to provide services to clients that are culturally humble, trauma-informed, gender-responsive, and patient-centered.
ORGANIZATION RELATIONSHIPS/INTERACTIONS
Interfaces with all levels of management, staff, clients, residents and families including partner agencies.
PHYSICAL SKILLS AND ABILITIES
Must have the visual, physical and technical ability to independently operate a variety of office equipment including the use of a computer. Will also require bending, stooping, filing, lifting of at least 25 lbs. or more and able to interrupt physical altercations. Ability to verbally communicate well with others.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Interfaces with all levels of management, staff, clients, residents, and families including community partners. Services may involve travel to offsite locations.
Hours: The Peer Support Specialist is expected to work Mondays to Fridays from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM with the expectation of working later 1-2 days per week to assist with evening groups in Hanford and Avenal. This position will work in Avenal at least 3 days per week. SUD counselor may also be asked to participate in community collaboratives and events, which may occur at nights and on weekends.
