Peer Recovery Specialist

Description of duties and responsibilities: The recovery specialist will work with individuals to support and strengthen their capacity to engage in their personal recovery. The competencies and role of the recovery specialist shall include, but are not limited to the following:

•  In collaboration with the individual, develop a Recovery Plan which should include culturally competent and relevant services that identifies goals with measurable objectives, assesses strengths, can be used to work towards those goals, identifies barriers that can inhibit goal attainment, and monitors the progress made attaining those goals;
•  Educate the individuals on how to appropriately navigate treatment, social service and recovery support systems;
•  Provide recovery support services based on the individual’s preference and his/her assessed needs;
•  Support individuals as they move through the stages of change to encourage them in their recovery;
•  Assist individuals with accessing recovery support services in the community;
•  Completes documentation and paperwork as necessary
•  Be a positive role model by sharing experiential knowledge, hope, and skills;
•  Maintain relationships with the individual in order to assist him/her in the treatment engagement and retention process;
•  Reinforce, guide, and ensure the individual that recovery is possible, and is built on multiple strengths, coping abilities, and the resources of each individual;
• Assist the participant with gaining skills and resources needed to initiate and maintain recovery;
•  Assist in establishing and sustaining a social and physical environment supportive of recovery;
•  Enhance identification and participation in the recovery community;
•  Advocate for appropriate and effective community treatment and recovery;
•  Empower individuals to make self-determined and self-directed choices about their recovery pathway;
•  Provide support with face to face sessions and/or telephone support based on individual’s personal choice;
•  Attend ongoing trainings and team meetings;
•  Participate in outreach efforts for Middlesex and Union County
•  Be able to help with event planning and reach out and collaborate with local leaders;
• Other tasks as requested by Prevention Links management.

REQUIRED DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Must be able to perform work responsibilities in various locations.
• Must possess excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Must be sensitive, flexible and responsive to gender, race, ethnicity, socio-economic status, religion, age, sexual orientation or any other special needs as reflected in the ability to communicate with staff and/or clients.
•  Must be proficient with Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook and possess basic computer skills.
•  Must be available to attend weekend and evening meetings and events as required.
•  Must be able to work both independently and in a team environment.
•  Must possess the time management skills necessary to organize and manage multiple priorities and tasks.
•  Must maintain an understanding of all programs, grants, and projects offered by Prevention Links.
•  Must adhere to Prevention Links administrative, reporting and recordkeeping guidelines to support accurate documentation of activities.
• Must participate in all agency required training.
• Must possess the ability to serve as a representative of Prevention Links, upholding agency’s expectation of excellence and collaboration
•  Must be authorized to work in the U.S and New Jersey.
•  Must be able to speak and write English.
• Must be able to walk, stand and sit for long periods of time.
•  Must be able to lift 25 pounds.
• Qualifications for position:
• Lived experience of addiction and recovery, with a minimum of two (2) years’ experience with the guiding principles of recovery
•  Degree in social work, human services, or related field or NJ certified peer recovery specialist (CPRS) preferred

Supervisory relationships: Reports directly to Senior Peer Services Coordinator

Skills, knowledge, Personal Qualities required: Must possess the skills, knowledge, and personal qualities required to fulfill the responsibilities listed above. Bilingual preferred. Strong writing and computer skills required.

Amount of travel and any other special conditions or requirements: Must possess a valid driver’s license and method of transportation. Includes regular weekend and evening availability.

Hours per day or week: Part time 20 hours per week; Full time 35 hours per week