Peer Support Specialist - Emergency Services

Northwestern Counseling & Support Services; St. Albans (VT); On-site; USD 24,796 - 27,552; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical and dental coverage

Employer-matched retirement plan

$5,000 in student loan forgiveness after 6 months

Job summary

Northwestern Counseling & Support Services seeks a Peer Support Specialist in St. Albans, VT to provide emotional support to individuals in crisis. The role involves using lived experience to advocate for individuals and help them navigate complex systems during challenging times.

The ideal candidate will possess strong interpersonal skills, empathy, and the ability to work in multidisciplinary teams. A comprehensive benefits package is included, plus opportunities for student loan forgiveness.

Qualifications

• Personal experience reflecting challenges faced in crisis situations.
• Ability to remain calm and exercise sound judgment under stress.
• Comfortable working within a multidisciplinary team.

Responsibilities

• Provide emotional support to individuals in crisis.
• Assist individuals in navigating mental health and community resources.
• Collaborate with crisis responders and community partners.

Skills

Empathy

Interpersonal skills

Crisis management

Education

High School Diploma

Associate's or Bachelor's Degree preferred

Job description

Job Details

Job Location: Saint Albans, VT 05478

Position Type: Part Time

Salary Range: $18.00 - $20.00 hourly

About the Role

Northwestern Counseling & Support Services (NCSS) is seeking an empathetic, grounded, and community-minded Peer Support Specialist to join our Emergency Services Team. This role is built on the power of lived experience and the belief that genuine connection can be transformative for individuals navigating moments of crisis, trauma, or acute stress.

As a Peer Support Specialist, you will use your own lived experience to build trust, reduce stigma, and offer meaningful emotional support to individuals in crisis. You’ll listen deeply, share your story appropriately, and provide reassurance and stability when people need it most. Your work will include offering immediate support during and after crises, helping individuals identify strengths, set personal wellness and recovery goals, and develop coping strategies that feel achievable and empowering.

A key part of the role involves helping people navigate the complex systems that often intersect during challenging times, whether that’s mental health, financial, legal, or community resources. You’ll stay engaged with individuals after traumatic events, encourage connection with available supports, and advocate to ensure their needs and concerns are heard. You will also maintain clear and confidential documentation and collaborate closely with supervisors, treatment teams, crisis responders, law enforcement, and community partners to ensure a coordinated and compassionate response.

This position is a meaningful opportunity to help others feel seen, supported, and safe—while working with a team dedicated to high-quality, person-centered emergency services. If you are passionate about using your lived experience to make a difference during some of the most difficult moments in a person’s life, we encourage you to apply. We invite you to become a valued member of our team at NCSS, a 2025 Best Places to Work in Vermont!

Qualifications

High School Diploma or equivalent, with relevant lived experience. Associates or Bachelors Degree preferred.

Requirements

The ideal candidate brings personal experience that reflects the challenges commonly faced in emergency or crisis situations, particularly related to mental health or trauma. Strong interpersonal skills, empathy, and the ability to remain calm and exercise sound judgment during high-stress encounters are essential. You should be comfortable working as part of a multidisciplinary team, maintaining professional boundaries, and managing your time and documentation effectively.

Benefits

We offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical and dental coverage, an employer-matched retirement plan, and educational support. Additionally, for those who qualify, this position provides an opportunity for $5,000 in student loan forgiveness upon the successful completion of your 6-month introductory period.

Hiring rate is based on experience, education, and internal equity. Final compensation will be determined in accordance with NCSS policy and applicable laws.

EOE