Bilingual Certified Peer Specialist - OCA

Graceworks Lutheran Services; Milwaukee (WI); On-site; USD 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Ongoing professional development

Mentorship and clinical supervision

Collaborative team environment

Job summary

A community health organization in Milwaukee is seeking a Bilingual Certified Peer Specialist. This role involves providing recovery-focused support to individuals with mental health or substance use challenges. The ideal candidate will be fluent in English and Spanish, possess a high school diploma, and have relevant training. Join a dedicated team committed to making real change within the community.

Qualifications

• Bilingual fluency in English and Spanish required.
• Graduate of state Certified Peer Specialist training or attain certification within one year of hire.
• Knowledge of mental health and substance use recovery principles.

Responsibilities

• Provide recovery-focused support and develop individual recovery goals.
• Assist individuals in navigating care systems to enhance self-determination.
• Facilitate group and individual support and educational sessions.

Skills

Bilingual fluency in English and Spanish

Knowledge of mental health and substance use recovery principles

Motivational interviewing

Education

High school diploma or GED/HSED

Graduate of state Certified Peer Specialist training

Job description

Overview

Wisconsin Community Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer (M/F/Disability/Vet).

Position

Bilingual Certified Peer Specialist - OCA

Location: Milwaukee | Department: Office of Consumer Affairs | Status: Full Time

Position Summary

Join our team at Access Clinic South as a Certified Peer Specialist. If you are bilingual (English/Spanish) with personal experience in mental health or substance use recovery, and have completed or are in the process of completing the State of Wisconsin Peer Specialist certification, we encourage you to apply. Your lived recovery experience will guide and inspire adults facing similar challenges.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide recovery-focused, strength-based support and develop individual recovery goals.
• Encourage the development of personal symptom management and self-advocacy.
• Assist individuals in navigating care systems to enhance self-determination and dignity.
• Conduct research to connect individuals with appropriate resources.
• Maintain accurate case files and documentation, including crisis plans in the Behavioral Health Division's Electronic Health Record system.
• Participate in 1:1 clinical supervision, if required.
• Collaborate with individuals' teams to ensure continuity and support in the recovery process.
• Facilitate group and individual support and educational sessions.
• Utilize motivational interviewing and positive communication skills.
• Attend staff meetings, training, and conferences.

Additional Responsibilities

• Execute other duties as needed to fulfill position responsibilities.
• Duties may evolve as determined by supervision needs.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED/HSED required.
• Bilingual fluency in English and Spanish.
• Graduate of state Certified Peer Specialist training or attain certification within one year of hire.
• Knowledge of mental health and substance use recovery principles.
• Valid driver’s license, automobile, and adequate auto insurance.
• Ability to meet physical demands, including mobility in community settings.

Why WCS

• Be part of an organization rooted in equity and impact.
• Access ongoing professional development, mentorship, and clinical supervision.
• Join a collaborative team of individuals who genuinely care about the people we serve.
• Contribute to real change in a role that blends advocacy, healing, and hope.

Wisconsin Community Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer; all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, disability, status or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.