Mobile Peer Provider (Multnomah County Libraries)

This position will be based at the Multnomah County Central Library to provide crisis intervention services for members of the public experiencing mental health symptoms. Travel to other libraries within the Multnomah County library system is expected. This is an on-call/per diem position for all shifts; employees must work a minimum of 6 shifts per quarter.

About the role

The Mobile Peer Provider delivers mobile crisis response in coordination with Crisis Team Clinicians to adults and individuals in Multnomah County. Using lived experience and training, the provider offers engagement, de-escalation, and advocacy to support individuals in regaining stability in the community. This role operates within a trauma-informed, strength-based framework and collaborates with programs in Multnomah County’s Acute Care Continuum.

The Peer Provider models wellness and recovery, offering acceptance, hope, options, and non-directive peer services based on shared lived experiences. The role works collaboratively with mental health and physical health care providers, police agencies, emergency departments, school personnel, and other social service agencies to ensure the best possible treatment for clients while supporting a Trauma Informed Care environment.

Responsibilities

• Openly identify as an individual with lived experience of receiving mental health services.
• Provide immediate mobile response to individuals experiencing mental health crises in Multnomah County.
• Support individuals through the recovery process as part of the Crisis Team.
• Triage mental health crisis calls from the Multnomah County Call Center and law enforcement agencies.
• Coordinate responses to crisis situations with community agencies and service providers.
• Reflect positive peer values, including non-hierarchy and mutuality.
• Act as a positive role model, demonstrating a recovery and healthful lifestyle orientation.
• Assist in connecting individuals to community resources and developing life skills.
• Provide culturally responsive services, particularly for African American, Latino, and Native American participants.
• Model and encourage participation in community inclusion activities.
• Coordinate services with medical providers, mental health providers, and Aging and Disability Services.
• Assess personal safety in the environment and request additional support as needed.
• Collaborate with law enforcement to determine risk and develop intervention plans.
• Provide information and facilitate linkage to mental health treatment and social services.
• Consult with teammates, supervisors, and program managers as appropriate.
• Operate in a dynamic and frequently changing work environment.
• Respect client rights, demonstrate professional boundaries, and adhere to ethical standards.
• Comply with mandatory abuse reporting laws and HIPAA requirements.
• Document and maintain electronic health records (EHR) in compliance with agency policies and regulations.
• Ensure safety of consumers, staff, and property, including familiarity with fire regulations and evacuation procedures.
• Represent the Peer Wellness Program at community, state, and national functions.
• Complete annual employee training requirements as indicated by licensing and agency standards.
• Attend seminars, training, and educational opportunities to develop professional skills.
• Participate in staff meetings, supervision sessions, and other departmental or agency meetings.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Completion of a Peer Support (PSS) or Peer Wellness (PWS) training approved by the Oregon Health Authority (OHA).
• Traditional Healthcare Worker (THW) certification required to maintain compliance with OARs.
• Experience as a former or current user of mental health services; must self-disclose lived experience with recovery.
• Experience working with adults with severe and persistent mental health challenges preferred.
• Experience working with diverse populations and communities.
• Valid driver’s license, three-year driving history, clean driving record, and ability to pass a DMV check.
• Completion of Cascadia’s online Defensive Driving course.
• Ability to drive a personal or company vehicle for work duties.

Skills

• Proficiency in operating computer hardware and software, including Electronic Health Record (EHR) systems.
• Ability to enter and retrieve data and prepare simple reports and progress notes.
• Strong interpersonal skills with a trauma-informed, strength-based approach.
• Ability to quickly assess and respond to safety concerns in the environment.
• Cultural responsiveness, particularly with African American, Latino, and Native American communities.
• Flexibility and adaptability in a dynamic, unpredictable work environment.

Working Conditions

• Work is primarily performed at the Multnomah County Central Library, with travel to other libraries in the system.
• Meal periods and breaks may be subject to interruption.
• Exposure to potential violent behavior, disease, biohazards, noise, and contaminants.
• Mental demands include addressing diverse and unpredictable circumstances that may impact client or employee well-being.
• Must remain alert and attentive during shifts, with the ability to quickly assess and respond to safety concerns.
• Physical demands include collaboration with partners to minimize risk and communication with law enforcement in emergent situations.

Benefits

• Generous Paid Time Off (PTO): Full-time employees earn 6 weeks of PTO in their first year.
• Medical and dental coverage (begins the 1st of the month following hire date).
• VSP Vision Discount Plan.
• 403(B) Retirement Savings Plan with up to 8% employer matching contribution (pre- and post-tax options).
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA) for medical, dependent care, and transportation.
• Short-Term Disability, Long-Term Disability, and Life Insurance.
• Paid bereavement and jury duty leave.
• Length of Service Award.
• Voluntary Life Insurance and Supplemental Insurance.
• Student loan forgiveness options.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Bike to Work Reimbursement.
• Discounted Fitness Memberships.
• Trauma Support Team.

Pay

Starting rate range: $26.45 - $27.65 per hour (USD).