Recovery-Focused Peer Support Specialist - EMS PORT

Catawba County Government; Hickory (NC); On-site; USD 36,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

Catawba County Emergency Services is seeking a dedicated Peer Support Specialist for the REACH 911 response program. The role uses lived experience to assist individuals with substance use and mental health challenges, guiding them toward recovery and access to services.

Responsibilities include active overdose response, follow-up visits, and coordination with healthcare, behavioral health, and community resources.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED or equivalent.
• Personal lived experience with substance use, mental health, or co-occurring conditions.

Responsibilities

• Provide peer-based support grounded in lived experience and recovery principles.
• Respond to active overdoses and incidents with harm-reduction approaches.
• Conduct follow-ups and coordinate referrals to treatment and community resources.
• Assist participants in accessing MAT, housing, transportation, and social services.
• Document contacts and referrals while maintaining confidentiality.

Skills

Active listening

Empathy

Motivational interviewing

De-escalation

Advocacy

Problem-solving

Interpersonal communication

Teamwork

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

Catawba County Emergency Services is seeking a dedicated Peer Support Specialist for the REACH 911 response program. The role uses lived experience to assist individuals with substance use and mental health challenges, guiding them toward recovery and access to services.

Responsibilities include active overdose response, follow-up visits, and coordination with healthcare, behavioral health, and community resources.