Peer Support Staff

Washington County Mental Health Services Inc; Montpelier (VT); On-site; USD 26,000 - 27,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Vision

Retirement plan

Paid time off

Job summary

Washington County Mental Health Services seeks a Peer Support Specialist to provide recovery-focused support to guests in a respite bed within our Community Support Program. Your lived experience guides a welcoming, non-judgmental environment that promotes independence and hope.

You will offer one-on-one peer support, assist with daily routines, complete program documentation, and help maintain a safe, supportive space. Training and team collaboration are expected.

Qualifications

• Lived experience with mental health challenges is required and central to the role.
• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Strong communication and written documentation skills.
• Ability to work independently while maintaining appropriate boundaries and professionalism.

Responsibilities

• Provide one-on-one peer support to guests during respite stay, promoting self-advocacy, wellness, and recovery.
• Support guests with daily routines and activities in a respectful, non-clinical manner.
• Complete required documentation and program-related paperwork accurately and on time.
• Maintain a safe, supportive environment within the respite setting.
• Carry out basic housekeeping and daily program tasks as assigned.
• Communicate effectively with on-call supervisors and follow program guidelines.
• Participate in required trainings, meetings, and team activities.

Skills

Communication skills

Written documentation

Independent work

English literacy

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Basic computer skills

Job description

Peer Support SpecialistAs a Peer Support Staff member, you provide meaningful, recovery-oriented support to individuals staying in a respite bed as part of WCMHS’s Community Support Program. Drawing on lived experience and a peer-based approach, you help create a welcoming, supportive environment where guests feel understood, respected, and empowered. Your presence supports stabilization, connection, and hope during a critical time, while reinforcing independence and recovery.Summary of DutiesProvide one-on-one peer support to guests during their respite stay, promoting self-advocacy, wellness, and recoverySupport guests with daily routines and activities in a respectful, non-clinical mannerComplete required documentation and program-related paperwork accurately and on timeMaintain a safe, supportive, and welcoming environment within the respite settingCarry out basic housekeeping and daily program tasks as assignedCommunicate effectively with on-call supervisors and follow program guidelinesParticipate in required trainings, meetings, and team activitiesCompensation and BenefitsWCMHS provides a comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, vision, retirement, and a generous paid time off package including flexible holidays and 12 vacation days in year one.The pay range for this position is $19.06 - $19.84 per hour.Summary of QualificationsHigh school diploma or equivalent requiredLived experience with mental health challenges is required and central to the rolePrior experience in mental health, peer support, or human services preferredStrong communication and written documentation skillsAbility to work independently while maintaining appropriate boundaries and professionalismBasic computer skills and comfort completing electronic or written recordsAbility to deliver services and complete treatment notes in EnglishWork EnvironmentThis role is based in a respite setting and involves working independently with guests, with support available from an on-call supervisor. Peer Support Staff are active throughout the space, responding to guest needs, completing daily responsibilities, and ensuring a calm, supportive environment. Flexibility and reliability are essential, as staff collaborate with the broader team to ensure consistent coverage and continuity of care.About the AgencyFor more than 50 years, Washington County Mental Health Services (WCMHS) has served the Washington County community and the Orange County towns of Orange, Washington, and Williamstown. WCMHS provides education, support, and treatment to individuals and families living with mental health challenges, substance use issues, and developmental and intellectual disabilities. Providing accessible, high-quality services in the community, schools, and health care settings, we work toward positive outcomes for wellness with collaborative, inclusive, and compassionate care. Washington County Mental Health Services is “Where Hope and Support Come Together.”#DSP