Recovery‑Driven Peer Support Specialist

Durham County Government; Durham (NC); On-site; USD 41,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

Durham County Government’s Emergency Medical Services unit seeks a Peer Support Specialist to assist individuals facing substance use, trauma, and mental health challenges. You will help create recovery environments, connect clients with resources, and advocate for their rights under supervision of the Program Manager.

Requires NCCPSS certification, a NC driver’s license, and at least two years in social work or related fields.

Qualifications

• High School graduation or GED equivalent.
• Two years of experience in social work, health services, peer counseling, case management or related experience.
• Lived experience with mental health or substance use disorder treatment.
• Must possess NCCPSS certification and NC driver's license.

Responsibilities

• Respond to overdose calls in Durham County.
• Conduct client outreach and follow-up with clients in the community.
• Meet with clients regularly to provide one-on-one counseling and support.
• Provide individualized harm reduction education and overdose prevention.
• Arrange medical appointments and transportation for clients.
• Train individuals on overdose reversal protocol and harm reduction resources.
• Assist clients in identifying personal strengths to achieve recovery goals.
• Maintain and submit required documentation (treatment plans, service notes).
• Work with community agencies to link clients to wraparound services.

Skills

Peer support principles

Microsoft Office

Recovery process knowledge

Counseling/Support delivery

Communication skills

Teamwork

Community resources knowledge

Education

High School Graduation or GED

NCCPSS certification

Tools

Driver's license

Job description

Durham County Government’s Emergency Medical Services unit seeks a Peer Support Specialist to assist individuals facing substance use, trauma, and mental health challenges. You will help create recovery environments, connect clients with resources, and advocate for their rights under supervision of the Program Manager.

Requires NCCPSS certification, a NC driver’s license, and at least two years in social work or related fields.