Core Guide - Peer Recovery Specialist (SMI/SUD)

firsthand; Richmond (VA); On-site; USD 25,000 - 36,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

401(k) with company match

Paid parental leave

Paid vacation (4.62 hours per pay)

Job summary

firsthand is hiring a Core Guide (Peer Recovery Specialist) to outreach and engage individuals living with SMI, using lived experience to build trust and support their wellness journeys.

You will schedule appointments, advocate for needs, and partner with clinicians to drive whole-health outcomes in a multidisciplinary team. This is a full-time role with a focus on compassionate, patient-centered care.

Qualifications

• Lived experience with SMI and/or SUD.
• State Peer Recovery certification, or eligibility and willingness to obtain certification within six months of employment.
• Valid driver’s license in good standing; ability to operate a vehicle (company vehicle may be provided).
• Proficiency with email, messaging services, and apps.
• Two years recovery time from a mental health and/or substance use disorder by the date of application.
• Paid training period with assessments to move forward.
• Ability to work Monday – Friday 8:30 am – 4:30 pm.

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 assist with telehealth access.
• Build trust and relationships to empower individuals to identify and pursue personal recovery goals.
• Serve as the primary point-of-contact and facilitate ongoing connection to supportive services.
• Address social determinants of health and facilitate access to benefits, resources, and transportation.
• Aid care coordination, accompany individuals to appointments, and address post-discharge needs.
• Provide timely documentation of encounters and participate in case reviews and team collaboration.
• Perform initial and ongoing telephonic outreach.
• Participate in ongoing training and professional development.

Skills

Empathy

Active listening

Communication skills

Lived experience with SMI/SUD

Patience & adaptability

Driving

Education

State Peer Recovery certification or eligibility

Tools

Email

Messaging apps

Job description

firsthand is hiring a Core Guide (Peer Recovery Specialist) to outreach and engage individuals living with SMI, using lived experience to build trust and support their wellness journeys.

You will schedule appointments, advocate for needs, and partner with clinicians to drive whole-health outcomes in a multidisciplinary team. This is a full-time role with a focus on compassionate, patient-centered care.