Peer Support Specialist - JRDC, ORCC

Nature of Work

The Detention Center/Re-Entry Peer Support Specialist is an entry-level, non-clinical position based within local detention centers. Essential in supporting incarcerated individuals during their recovery and re-entry by providing person-centered, culturally competent services that minimize harm and promote long-term wellness. It focuses on engagement, education and support. Peers use their lived experiences to inspire and validate participants, guiding them in making meaningful life changes that align with harm reduction principles. Primary responsibilities include:

• Facilitating continuity of care by coordinating follow-up services and re-entry planning before release
• Collaborating with the nurse coordinator, detention medical vendors and fellow peer team members to streamline care
• Offering emotional support and facilitating communication and care coordination across the county healthcare system to ensure appropriate continuing care
• Sharing lived recovery experiences and promoting self-advocacy
• Providing encouragement, engagement and peer mentoring
• Developing individualized self-directed recovery plans in partnership with participants and offering information and assistance for recovery housing, employment development, transportation and other essential services based on participant-identified needs within the criminal justice setting
• Facilitating care and streamlining transitions with other parties in the county healthcare system to ensure participants receive appropriate continuing care
• Removing barriers and improving access to high-quality, client-centered, culturally competent care throughout Anne Arundel County
• Aiming to decrease overdose risk and enhance the overall health and wellness of people who use drugs
• Assisting with inventory management and restocking of Harm Reduction Vending Machines
• Delivering targeted education and outreach, both individually and in group settings, covering the full spectrum of services within the substance use continuum of care

Minimum Qualifications

• Education: High School Diploma or Equivalency (GED)
• Experience: At least two years of sustained recovery from a substance use disorder. Familiarity with treatment and community resources that support recovery from addictive diseases and co-occurring behavioral health disorders. Knowledge of harm reduction, social services and health resources. Experience working with marginalized communities. No current criminal justice system involvement. Behavioral Health Services will consider the length of time since the last conviction and the type of crime.
• Licenses or Certifications: Required to obtain a Certified Peer Support Specialist Certification within 18 months from date of hire from the Maryland Addictions and Behavioral Health Professionals Certification Board (MABPCB). Must complete any additional training that is deemed necessary and appropriate to maintain required certification.
• Notes: May be assigned duties that require the operation of a motor vehicle. Required to possess a motor vehicle operator's license valid in Maryland and have access to a personal vehicle. Work may involve exposure to uncomfortable or unpleasant surroundings when doing work in the community. Will be working with individuals who may not be feeling well. There is the potential for emotionally volatile situations to occur, including unpleasant hygiene.
• Desired or Preferred Qualifications: Able to multitask in a fast-paced environment. Excellent time management, organizational, written and oral communication skills. Able to work independently and on a team. Have an understanding of Anne Arundel County resources. Be proficient with Microsoft Office, Excel and electronic medical records. Ability to maintain effective peer recovery relationships with participants and other members of the team.