Peer Specialist

Goodwill NYNJ; New York (NY); On-site; USD 42,000 - 58,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Generous time off policy

Health benefits including medical, etc

Retirement matching

Transit and commuter benefits

Job summary

Goodwill Greater New York and Northern New Jersey (GWNYNJ) is seeking a Peer Specialist for its PROS program. The role provides peer supports, person-centered recovery services, and group activities to adults with serious mental illness in a recovery-oriented setting.

Responsibilities include caseload management, group leadership, coordination with staff, and documenting progress. Some travel and supervision are required; Spanish is a plus.

Qualifications

• Graduation from a Peer Specialist training program.
• Credentialing through the Academy of Peer Services mandatory.
• Spanish speaking a plus.
• Experience with mental health/substance use preferred.
• Basic computer skills.
• Must be able to maintain appropriate boundaries with participants and utilize supervision to address conflicts.

Responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of up to 5 participants with case management and referrals.
• Lead/ Co-Lead groups and activities within the PROS program.
• Document attendance and coordinate services with staff and collaterals.
• Share personal experiences to foster hope and recovery.
• Attend supervision and staff meetings; participate in trainings.

Skills

Peer supports

Case management

Group facilitation

Wellness self-management

Education

Peer Specialist training program

Academy of Peer Services credential

Job description

Posted Monday, April 20, 2026 at 4:00 AM

Goodwill Greater New York and Northern New Jersey (GWNYNJ) believes that the power of work and sustainable fashion is how we unlock the good in our communities. For over 100 years, we have helped people get jobs, stay employed, and progress in careers across New York and Northern New Jersey. We believe that diversity drives innovation and strengthens our workplace. We are committed to fostering our inclusive environment where all employees feel valued, respected, and empowered to contribute fully. We welcome applicants of all backgrounds, identities, experiences, and abilities.

The Peer Specialist working within a PROS program providing Peer Supports, person-centered and recovery oriented services to the PROS community. The Peer Specialist leads &/or co-lead groups and activities within the PROS community in support of recovery & rehabilitation model related to the treatment of individuals with serious and persistent mental illness in a person-centered, recovery-oriented environment.This will be carried out as indicated by NYS OMH Part 512 Regulationsand Medicaid requirements.

The Awesome Things You’ll Do

• Manage a caseload of up to 5 participants, including case management, collateral contacts, referrals, vocational assistance, and other needs, to coordinate services.
• Assist with the daily operation of the PROS programas needed
• Foster an atmosphere of congeniality that facilitates implementation and sustaining the basic philosophy of the PROS program and provide strength based recovery oriented services.
• Lead/ Co-Lead groups and activities as assigned, including community exploration trips and special events. Document participant attendance when needed
• Share personal experiences to engender a sense of hope and recovery within the program.
• Collaborate and consult with staff, other providers and identified collaterals [family/friends] to ensure coordination of service.
• Assist participants with entitlements and concrete services; acts as an advocate on participant’s behalf
• Attends and participates in weekly supervision, weekly staff meetings and periodic in-service trainings.
• Presents issues/cases for review at Clinical Team Meetings and PROS Administrative Meeting.
• Attain and maintain competency in Wellness Self-Management and other evidenced based practices as assigned.
• Other duties as assigned.

Activities are subject to change / be added to meet business needs with management approval.

Our Must Haves

• Graduation from a Peer Specialist training program.
• Credentialing through the Academy of Peer Services mandatory.
• Spanish speaking a plus.
• Experience with mental health/substance use preferred.
• Basic computer skills.
• Must be able to maintain appropriate boundaries with participants and utilize supervision to address conflicts.

Special Working Conditions

• Field work may be necessary, i.e. escorting participants to appointment for benefits, medical, etc. Must be able to utilize public transportation for travel. Must be able to climb stairs.

What We Offer

• Generous Time off policy to use when you need it
• Health, wellness and financial resources to help you achieve our personal goals
• Robust health benefits including medical, dental, vision, parental leaves and company sponsored life insurance
• Retirement matching programs and contributions
• Transit and commuter benefits

We believe in creating space for everyone to do their best work and have individual and collective impact. We believe in challenging the status quo and setting ambitious goals in the name of doing more good. We believe that being your best self and helping others do the same is how we bring our mission alive. Even if you don’t think you meet all the qualifications listed for the job, we would love to hear from you!

If you require a reasonable accommodation at any point in the application or interview process, or if you are unable to apply through our recruitment portal, please contact us at [e-mail] . We are happy to assist and ensure you have an equal opportunity to apply.