Peer Recovery Support Specialist

Esperanza Health Centers; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 42,000 - 50,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

BCBS Medical PPO Plans

Dental & Vision coverage

Tuition reimbursement

Paid time off

Job summary

Esperanza Health Centers is seeking a Peer Recovery Support Specialist to provide case management for patients with substance use disorders and support recovery goals. You will work as part of a care team, coordinating MAR services, education, and outreach to improve patient outcomes.

The role emphasizes compassionate communication, coordination with providers, and adherence to PCMH principles, with evenings and weekends possible based on patient needs.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent with recent related certification.
• 1-3 years in mental health or substance use knowledge and experience.
• Experience in health care settings preferred.

Responsibilities

• Maintain a caseload for MAR treatment services with patient-focused recovery plans.
• Provide case management and resource referrals to support recovery goals.
• Coordinate with care team to ensure timely follow-up care and communication.
• Educate patients and staff on substance use topics and naloxone administration.
• Participate in team meetings and community outreach activities.

Skills

Bilingual English/Spanish

Multi-tasking

Communication skills

Education

High School Diploma

225-hour certified alcohol & substance use preparatory program

Tools

Electronic Health Records (EHR)

Job description

Description

Location: 4720 S California Ave

Range: $42,000 - $50,000

Hours: Full Time, Weekdays, weekends, and evenings as necessary

Why You'll Love Working With Us

At Esperanza Health Centers, we’re more than a clinic—we’re a vibrant, mission-driven community where compassionate care meets professional growth. Our team operates under the Patient-Centered Medical Home (PCMH) model, and every day, you’ll be part of making healthcare accessible, welcoming, and personalized.

• BCBS Medical PPO Plans
• Ameritas Dental & Eye Med Vision Coverage
• Tuition Reimbursement (up to $5,000/year)
• 10 Paid Holidays + 21 Days of Paid Time Off

Your Role & Impact

As a Peer Recovery Support Specialist, you’ll be a vital member of the care team contributing to the provision of high-quality, patient-centered healthcare. You’ll be responsible for providing case management to a group of patients identified to have substance use disorders and assist in prevention efforts to help them achieve and maintain their optimal level of health. The PRSS will act as a resource to patients and health care staff to ensure patients receive the care and services they require to be successful in their recovery efforts.

Patient Care & Enhancing Care Flow

• Maintains a caseload as determined during the admissions process for patients participating in MAR treatment services.
• Conducts assessments to identify the need for support services and works collaboratively with patients to develop individualized recovery support plans that emphasize purpose, mindfulness, and personal goals.
• Identifies relapse prevention strategies to support patients in managing and coping with triggers and high-risk situations and assists patients in building and sustaining a recovery-oriented social network to engage in healthy, meaningful activities.
• Refer patients to other community resources when necessary. Schedule for Substance Use Counseling, Behavioral Health, or MAR Program per assessment results.
• Orient patients to the process to enter MAR program or access additional substance use services. Explain insurance fees, sliding scale fees, and costs associated with services at Esperanza Health Centers.
• Encourage patients to become actively engaged in their own health and recovery journeys through calm, compassionate communication, and by utilizing motivational interviewing techniques and recovery model approach.
• Provide education to patients and staff related to substance use such as overdose identification and reversal, administration of naloxone.

Collaborative Support & Communication

• Work as part of a team (including medical providers, medical assistants, and behavioral health consultants) to coordinate initial and follow up care for patients referred for substance use disorders.
• Facilitate communication among patients, providers, nurses, medical assistants, and outside resources, related to the care of patients.
• Maintain timely and consistent communication with patients regarding their health care and resource needs.
• Participates in ongoing recovery support services by identifying community resources and connecting patients with the appropriate services to further support their recovery journey.
• Engage in community outreach with neighborhood schools, churches, and other business partners.

Administrative Duties

• Provides a minimum of 25-30 hours each week of direct individualized in-person, telephonic or virtual peer support services.
• Maintains accurate and timely documentation of recovery plans, interventions, resources and progress notes in the electronic health record in accordance with policies, procedures, and regulatory and accreditation standards.
• Participates in interdisciplinary case staffing meetings to discuss care coordination and ensure peer informed care.
• Contributes expertise in regular peer recovery team meetings to evaluate program effectiveness and individual patient progress.
• Meaningfully participate in regular administrative and clinical supervision and team meetings.

Requirements

What We’re Looking For:

• High School Diploma and successful completion of 225-hour certified alcohol and substance use preparatory program within the past 12 months or 12 months from date of hire. (Combination of education and experience considered as well)
• 1-3 years of mental health and/or substance use knowledge and experience.
• Previous experience in a health care setting, including work as a medical assistant, case manager and health educator, preferred.
• Previous experience working with patients with substance abuse and dependence. Exhibit traits of friendliness, compassion, patience, and a non-judgmental tone.
• Strong ability to multi-task and work well in a fast-paced environment.
• Desire to be a self-starter; take initiative. Ability to organize and prioritize appropriately.
• Attention to detail is a must. Flexibility to work evenings and/or weekends, if necessary.
• Exhibits flexibility to adapt to unforeseen needs or circumstances
• Ability to speak, read and comprehend English and Spanish Computer skills required.
• Prior experience using electronic health records, preferred.
• Function as a team member to assure patients obtain access to quality care.
• Potential to work evenings and/ or Saturdays.

What You Get in Return

A deeply mission-aligned workplace where your work matters—and you’re valued Opportunities to grow your career in a supportive, community-focused healthcare setting A culture built around trust, respect, and collaboration, where you’ll truly feel part of the family