Core Guide: Peer Recovery Specialist for SMI Support

firsthand; Akron (OH); On-site; USD 23,000 - 32,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Equity

Performance bonus

Health, dental, vision, and mental wel

401(k) with company match

Paid parental leave (16 weeks)

Job summary

firsthand seeks a compassionate Core Guide to support individuals living with SMI and/or SUD. You will blend peer recovery with clinical collaboration to schedule visits, advocate for needs, and help clients achieve personal wellness goals.

In a multidisciplinary team, you’ll build trust, provide outreach, and document encounters while pursuing ongoing training and growth opportunities in a mission-driven environment.

Qualifications

• Lived experience with SMI and/or SUD
• State Peer Recovery certification, or eligibility and willingness to obtain certification within six months
• Valid driver’s license in good standing and ability to operate a vehicle
• Demonstrated recovery time from a mental health and/or substance use disorder
• Paid training period and assessments to move forward
• Weekdays 8:30 am – 4:30 pm availability

Responsibilities

• Conduct community outreach to individuals with SMI in homes, community locations, and care settings like shelters, hospitals, and emergency departments
• Schedule appointments, take vitals, ensure clinical visits are attended and completed, assist with telehealth access
• Build trust and empower individuals to pursue personal recovery goals
• Serve as primary point of contact, using advanced engagement techniques to maintain connections
• Help address social determinants of health and facilitate access to benefits and transportation
• Assist with care coordination and accompany individuals to appointments
• Provide timely documentation and participate in team reviews
• Perform initial and ongoing telephonic outreach
• Participate in ongoing training and professional development
• Recognize role evolution as the organization grows

Skills

Empathy

Compassion

Approachability

Listening

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Patience

Persistence

Team collaboration

Tech proficiency

Education

State Peer Recovery certification

Certification eligibility within 6 months

Tools

Email

Messaging apps

Apps

Job description

firsthand seeks a compassionate Core Guide to support individuals living with SMI and/or SUD. You will blend peer recovery with clinical collaboration to schedule visits, advocate for needs, and help clients achieve personal wellness goals.

In a multidisciplinary team, you’ll build trust, provide outreach, and document encounters while pursuing ongoing training and growth opportunities in a mission-driven environment.