WFS Peer Support Specialist

Goodwill Industries of the Inland Northwest; Spokane (WA); On-site; USD 33,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

Goodwill Industries of the Inland Northwest is seeking a Peer Support Specialist in Spokane to provide emotional support and guidance to individuals facing mental health challenges. You will help participants access resources, navigate recovery, and develop coping skills in both one-on-one and group settings.

Travel may be required using company or personal vehicle. A valid driver’s license, clean driving record, and proof of auto insurance are required; CPSS certification must be obtained

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED or equivalent experience.
• Must become Certified Peer Support Specialist (CPSS) within 90 days.
• Must pass driver record, background checks, and fingerprint check.

Responsibilities

• Engage participants and establish rapport with empathetic support.
• Collaborate to develop individualized recovery plans and coping strategies.
• Use lived experiences to provide relatable guidance and encouragement.
• Assist participants in identifying community resources.
• Lead and coordinate recovery groups and maintain records.

Skills

Empathy

Active listening

Communication

Facilitation

Education

High school diploma or GED

CPSS within 90 days

Job description

Closes: 11/1/26 - Spokane, WA - Full-time/Hourly

Wage: $24 - $26 p/h DOE

Employment Benefits: https://discovergoodwill.org/benefits/

Summary: Goodwill's Behavioral Health and Wellness program strives to provide emotional support and guidance to individuals experiencing mental health challenges, drawing on the lived experiences of Peer Support Specialist staff. They help individuals foster a sense of connection and hope as they assist participants to access resources, navigate the recovery process, and develop stronger coping skills in both individual meetings and group activities. Travel required using company and/or personal vehicle. Must have valid driver's license, clean driving record, and proof of personal auto insurance. Must successfully pass driver record, background(s), and fingerprint check.

Education &/or Experience: High school diploma or general education degree (GED); or one to three months related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience. Must be or able to become a Certified Peer Support Specialist (CPSS) within 90 days.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Engage participants and establish rapport by listening and providing empathetic support, facilitating open communication about their challenges and goals.
• Collaborate with participants to develop individualized recovery plans, including identifying personal strengths, setting achievable goals, and choosing appropriate coping strategies.
• Use lived and personal experiences of recovery to provide relatable insights and encouragement, offering a safe space for participants to discuss their struggles and progress.
• Assist participants in identifying and utilizing resources in the community.
• Collaborate with social service colleagues and Mental Health Professionals, both within Goodwill Industries and the community to coordinate recovery plans.
• Lead facilitated support groups, providing a structured environment for participants to share experiences, learn from each other, and build social connections.
• Maintain accurate and timely participant records, including progress notes, service delivery summaries/reports, and any relevant communication with funders and other providers.
• Participate in outreach activities to raise awareness about mental health services and engage potential clients within the community.
• Participate in agency staff meetings, case conferences/planning, and individual and group supervision.
• Understanding of mental health diagnoses, recovery principles, community resources, and ethical guidelines for peer support.
• Participate in ongoing training and professional development opportunities.
• Maintain participant confidentiality.
• Assist participants in managing appointments related to health, recovery, and well-being.
• Provide education about behavioral health concerns as directed and in consultation with Mental Health Professionals.
• Utilize safety technology in accordance with Workforce & Family Services safety policies while conducting community outreach, home visits, or job tasks in a community setting.
• Comply with & promote good safety practices. Maintain an orderly work area.
• Work collaboratively with Workforce & Family Services to provide participant services.
• Follow all policies, procedures, & directives of Goodwill Industries of the Inland Northwest assuring safety of personnel or property.
• Properly wear & maintain all required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
• Maintain agency confidentiality. Violation of confidentiality is cause for immediate dismissal.
• Comply with all health, safety, & fire standards & all local, state, & federal regulations (WISHA & OSHA).
• Other duties as assigned.