Peer Support Specialist REQ 48619

Abacus (Portal Only); Virginia Beach (VA); On-site; USD 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Virginia Beach Human Services Department is seeking a compassionate Peer Recovery Specialist to provide support for adults with substance use disorders. This role involves guiding individuals through recovery, connecting them to resources, and teaching long-term wellness skills.

Responsibilities include conducting screenings, facilitating recovery-oriented groups, and collaborating with emergency services. The role requires completion of peer support training and CPRS eligibility. The position follows a specific weekly schedule with some weekend hours.

Qualifications

• Completion of Peer-to-Peer Support Specialist Training or currently working toward completion.
• Must be eligible to become a Certified Peer Recovery Specialist (CPRS) in Virginia.
• Required screenings: Fingerprinting, CPS, DMV check, Defensive Driving Certification.

Responsibilities

• Provide peer support services to adults with substance use disorders.
• Conduct screenings and recovery-oriented service planning.
• Facilitate daily living skills training and social activities.
• Collaborate with emergency teams for assessments.
• Assist clients in developing personalized Recovery Plans.

Skills

Compassion

Peer support

Problem-solving

Self-advocacy

Recovery knowledge

Education

Peer-to-Peer Support Specialist Training or WRAP Facilitator training

Tools

Computer

Microsoft Office

Electronic Health Record system

Job description

Peer Recovery Specialist – Human Services (SUD Outpatient Programs)

About the Role

The City of Virginia Beach Human Services Department is seeking a compassionate and motivated Peer Recovery Specialist to support adults living with substance use disorders. In this role, you’ll use your lived experience, recovery knowledge, and peer support training to guide individuals through their recovery journey, connect them with resources, and help them build skills for long-term wellness.

Responsibilities

• Provide peer support services to adults with substance use disorders.
• Conduct screenings, recovery-oriented service planning, and assist with individual goal development.
• Facilitate daily living skills training, social/recreational activities, and recovery education.
• Complete GPRA surveys as required.
• Collaborate with hospital emergency rooms, Emergency Services, and Crisis Stabilization teams to support comprehensive assessments.
• Assist clients in developing personalized Recovery Plans based on strengths, goals, and needed supports.
• Coach clients in problem-solving, self-advocacy, and accessing community resources.
• Co-facilitate recovery-oriented groups using educational tools and personal lived experience.
• Serve as a liaison between clients and service providers to ensure client preferences are reflected in treatment plans.
• Maintain accurate documentation in accordance with agency, grant, and licensure standards.
• Participate in staff meetings, case reviews, and required trainings.
• Utilize SAMHSA’s Crisis Prevention Action Plan and other peer support models.
• Support clients in relapse prevention, skill-building, and reconnecting with recovery goals.

Schedule

This position follows a set weekly schedule:

• Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:30 PM
• Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:30 PM
• Monday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
• Tuesday: 2:00 PM – 10:30 PM
• Wednesday: 2:00 PM – 10:30 PM

Work Environment & Tools

• Location: Birdneck Circle Human Services Facility
• Dress Code: Business Casual
• Equipment Used: Computer, Microsoft Office, Electronic Health Record system, standard office equipment

Minimum Requirements

• Completion of Peer-to-Peer Support Specialist Training (or currently working toward completion) OR WRAP Facilitator training.
• Must be eligible to become a Certified Peer Recovery Specialist (CPRS) in Virginia.
• Required screenings:
  • Fingerprinting for barrier crimes
  • CPS check
  • DMV check
  • Defensive Driving Certification