Certified Peer Specialist (CPS)

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 and/or substance use recovery. The chosen candidate(s) will do this work by sharing their own, lived experience of recovery from mental illness and/or substance use while modeling skills and providing support for others as they engage in daily activities- they will, ideally, be willing and able to work with both adults, and youth and young adults ages 14-26.

A prospective CPS should want to work closely with others, have basic knowledge of community resources, be a role model for recovery, have the ability to work a flexible schedule, and possess strong communication skills. We offer a supportive work environment and the opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of members of our communities.

Those with co-occurring mental health diagnoses & recovery experience may qualify for cross-training to become a Certified Recovery Specialist as well.

Contact CenClear today!

Compensation

• $15.50 per hour, for all hours worked, Mileage reimbursement.

Hours

• This is a part-time position, for which the candidate will work 15-29 hours per week.
• Sessions can be held Sunday through Saturday, between the hours of 7AM and 8PM.

Location

• Positions available in the following areas(s):
  • Altoona
  • Centre County
  • St. Marys area
• The main CPS office is in Clearfield, PA. Compensation for time and mileage occurs based on the reimbursement policy.

Benefits for employment

• All work hours compensated at one rate
• CPS training and PA state certification expenses covered by employer
• Employee Wellness Initiatives
• Company cellphone and laptop provided for work use
• Accrued vacation and sick leave that increases with tenure
• Flexible Spending Account
• 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)
• 18% discount on Verizon cell phone services
• Flexible Work Schedule
• 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 with at least 1 year in recovery
• Must be at least the age of 18
• Must have a valid driver’s license with access to transportation and be willing to travel
• High school diploma or GED, preferred
• Must have or be willing to pursue certification as a Peer Specialist through the state of Pennsylvania
• Must obtain the following clearances prior to hire: PA State Police Criminal History, PA Child Abuse History, FBI Criminal History, and Mandated Reporting Certificate

Specific Description of Duties

• Spends 70% of weekly hours worked providing support to peers.
• 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 (30) 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.