Peer Specialist

Certified Peer Specialist

CenClear is looking for individuals who are interested in inspiring hope and encouraging positive changes in the lives of people who are on a journey through mental health recovery. CPS’ do this work by sharing their own, lived mental health recovery experiences while modeling skills and providing support for others as they engage in daily activities. An ideal CPS wants to work closely with others, has basic knowledge of community resources, and possesses strong communication skills. If this describes you, please reach out to our team today! We are excited to hear from you.

Wage: $15.50 per hour.

Hours: This is a part-time position with the opportunity to transition to full-time. A minimum hour requirement of 15 hours per week must be maintained. Sessions can be held Sunday through Saturday, between the hours of 7AM and 8PM.

Location: The main CPS office is in Clearfield, PA.

Positions Available:

CenClear is looking for one CPS for each of the following areas:

• Altoona
• Clearfield/Philipsburg
• Dubois/Punxsutawney
• St Marys

Benefits for employment:

-Benefits may be dependent on the number of hours worked.

• All work hours compensated at one rate
• CPS training and PA state certification expenses covered by employer
• Employee Wellness Initiatives
• Company cellphone and tablet provided for work use
• Vacation and Sick Leave
• Flexible Spending Account
• Excellent Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance (shared cost) after the 1-year lookback if qualify
• 401(k) with company match up to 7% based on employee deferment, after 1 year and 1000 hours worked
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) (includes household members)
• Flexible Work Schedule
• 18% discount on Verizon cell phone services
• Mileage Reimbursement (following the reimbursement policy)
• Technology and Software Discounts available

General Description of Duties:

A CPS is a supportive advocate who assists individuals with a mental health diagnosis, who are 14 years of age and older, in keeping on their path to recovery. A CPS will share their own experiences when needed and will help others to find inner strength and hope. A CPS will help peers to set goals for themselves and then support them through goal achievement or reassessment. A CPS will also help peers with finding supports within their own community.

Learn more about what the average day of a peer support specialist looks like here by clicking the link below:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zGGsP0-TYx8

Pennsylvania Peer Support Coalition. (2021, November 4). Peer Support: Average Day [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zGGsP0-TYx8

Qualifications:

• Must have lived mental health experience of at least 1 year
• Must be at least the age of 18
• Must have worked or volunteered 12 months out of the past 3 years
• Must have valid driver’s license with access to transportation and be willing travel
• Must have a high school diploma, GED, or higher degree
• Must have or be willing to pursue certification as a Peer Specialist through the state of Pennsylvania

Must obtain the following Clearances:

• PA Criminal Record (State Police)- https://epatch.state.pa.us
• Child Abuse History Check- compass.state.pa.us/cwis
• FBI Clearance- PA Department of Human Services – https://uenroll.identogo.com
• Mandated Reporting Certificate-free - reportabusepa.pitt.edu.

Specific Description of Duties:

• Facilitates assistance in accessing various community resources (education, housing, transportation, recovery supports, etc.).
• Offers referrals to treatment services when necessary.
• Provides guidance throughout the recovery process.
• Helps peers with developing an Individualized Service Plan
• Offers support and advocacy related to obstacles that are often encountered during the recovery process.
• Assists peers in acquiring self-care skills such as budgeting, shopping, cooking, housekeeping, interview skills, etc.
• Introduces and engages participants in community resources.
• Assists peers with advocating for themselves throughout the recovery process.
• Attends trainings as identified for the position, target population and individual need for professional growth.
• Maintains CPS certification.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to reach overhead.
• Lift and carry objects over thirty (50) pounds.
• Bend to reach objects from the floor.
• Climb stairs.
• Stand for extended periods of time with reasonable breaks.
• Sit for extended period of time with reasonable breaks.
• Operate office machines.
• Vision and hearing within normal limits.

CenClear provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.