Peer Support Specialist

About the Position: The Peer Support Specialist provides support and services with more difficult or complex assignments designed to ensure effective routine case management services; obtains information from clients/members; monitors and documents client conduct; provides client transport and performs general clerical duties as needed; provides recovery-oriented, culturally appropriate services that promote engagement, socialization, self-sufficiency, support self-empowerment of participants to act on their own behalf regarding their needs; acts as a resource and support system for participants; provides liaison functions between participants and service providers; provides services to participants and their family members/caregivers, both individually and in group settings, and performs related work as required.

• Gathers initial demographic information on potential clients/members and fills out appropriate forms as assigned.
• Disseminates educational and informational materials to potential clients/members, families and groups.
• Conducts field visits to disseminate information, provide education, and assist with case management at homes, detention facilities, hospitals, or mental health/health facilities.
• Provides transportation services for clients/members and/or family members to ensure treatment attendance or assistance in reaching case management goals.
• Assists clients/members with coordination of community services and support.
• Assists with referrals and the utilization of community resources in support of clients/members and their families.

Any combination of experience and training that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:

• Three (3) years of experience with increasing responsibility in  performing advanced journey level or specialized duties in the provision of mental or public healthcare management services, psychiatric social services, public health education services, counseling, nutrition counseling, or substance abuse counseling (i.e., supervisor/lead cashier, lead store clerk, supervisor/lead clerical, etc.) and/or work-like experiences (i.e., volunteering, school activities, intern).

OR

• High school diploma or GED equivalent. Associate’s degree from an accredited college or university in social/ behavioral science or other related field is preferred and one (1) year experience as a Community Health Worker II. 

License & Special Requirements:

• Successfully complete the curriculum and training requirements for a Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist.
• Community Health Worker or Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist Certificate. 
• Possession of, or ability to obtain and maintain, a valid California Class C Driver License and a satisfactory driving record is required.  Individuals who do not meet this requirement due to a disability will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
• Obtain and maintain a valid CPR and basic life support certification.
• Be self-identified as having experience with the process of recovery from mental illness or substance use disorder, either as a consumer of these services or as the parent, caregiver or family member of a consumer; be willing to share their experience’ and have a strong dedication to recovery.

The department is currently recruiting for multiple vacancies. 

In addition, Tehama County is establishing an eligibility list to fill future vacancies for a Peer Support Specialist, as well as, subsequent vacancies which occur during the life of the eligibility list. 

Please upload ALL required documents when applying such as, copies of all required degrees and/or certifications as outlined in the job description. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of background, fingerprinting, drug test and physical examination provided by the County.