Recovery Support Specialist (ROSC Program, Part-time)

Interested candidates should send their resume and cover letter to: Alicia Gattis, Community Programs Manager (CPM) at agattis@peerservices.org

PEER Services (peerservices.org) is a leading nonprofit provider of community-based substance use prevention and treatment services for Evanston, Maine, New Trier, Niles and Northfield Townships, and the north side of Chicago. As a licensed treatment provider since 1975, we have transformed the lives of thousands of teens and adults and helped them open the door to a healthier, brighter future.

The ROSC Recovery Support Specialist has a unique and integral role as a member of the PEER ROSC. The RSS has lived experience with substance use recovery and is comfortable with appropriate self-disclosure and sharing pertinent information about their own recovery experiences with others to educate and build community support for people with substance use disorders. The RSS is encouraged to utilize their lived experience to connect with community members, and advocate for those in recovery from substance use. In addition, the RSS works with the ROSC Coordinator to educate staff, community members, and other stakeholders on the needs of those in recovery, the RSS model, and role in recovery. The RSS must be stable in their own recovery for a minimum of two years and possess the knowledge and skills to provide evidence-based substance use interventions to peers in recovery from substance use. The RSS abides by the ethical standards, basic values, principles, and guidelines for peer recovery support practice. Additionally, the RSS is responsible for assisting the ROSC Coordinator in cultivating and maintaining relationships with community partners, persons in recovery, and other stakeholders. The RSS provides administrative assistance, as directed by the Community Programs Manager.

Job Duties

PROGRAM

Ensure the Community Programs Manager is kept abreast of all aspects of their program sites and activities.
Offer suggestions that support the development of the ROSC program and improved care for those served.
Assist the ROSC Coordinator to promote PEER’s programs and services and build relationships with institutions that foster referrals and resources for clients.
Assist the ROSC Coordinator in the recruitment of coalition members, provide new member orientation, and work to retain members.
Build and maintain strong working relationships with PEER staff, supervisors, and program partners.
Attend and participate in organizational, program, and team meetings and activities.
Attend scheduled ROSC Coalition meetings, TA meetings, regional meetings, and statewide meetings.
Participate in individual and group supervision / consultation and other educational opportunities as assigned.
Collaborate with ROSC Coordinator in achieving goals of ROSC Council and meeting grant deliverables.
Obtain / maintain certification / credentials and participate in continued education training opportunities.
Represent PEER during networking events, educational and training opportunities, and other community activities. Promote the positive reputation of the organization.

RECOVERY SUPPORT

Provide psychoeducation around substance use, addiction, recovery, and the role of the RSS in recovery.
Provide a model for both people in recovery and staff by demonstrating that recovery is possible.
Actively identify and support linkages to community resources (communities of recovery, educational, vocational, housing, social, cultural, spiritual, self-help, professional services, etc.) that support the recovering person’s goals and interests.
Track and document encounters and services provided.
Collect and record data for grants, reports, and ongoing quality improvement.
Complete site / program specific tasks and responsibilities as determined by the needs of the ROSC, the team and CPM.
Complete special projects and other duties as assigned by the CPM and ROSC Coordinator.

Classification, Compensation, Work Schedule, and Benefits:

This is a part-time, non-exempt, hourly position not to exceed 25 hours per week.
Compensation is $20.00 per hour.
Work hours will be based on the needs of the program and staff availability.
Expected hours: 20 – 25 per week
Work Location: In person
Benefits for part-time staff include: Accrued vacation and sick time, paid holidays (when observed during regular work schedule), continuing education opportunities, clinical supervision.

Qualifications:

Must have lived experience with substance use recovery and be comfortable with appropriate self-disclosure and sharing pertinent information about one’s recovery experiences with others to educate and support successful recovery.
Minimum of 2 years of sustained recovery.
Documented completion of Recovery Support Services training and education. Certified Recovery Support Specialist (CRSS) or successful certification completion within 1 year of employment required.
Commitment to Harm Reduction and Trauma-Informed care with openness to explore 12-Step based supports. 
Working knowledge of computer systems and applications and demonstrated accurate and timely utilization of technology.
Must be flexible and adaptable to work in different settings (office, hospital, community, etc.), and able to adjust work schedules, as needed.
Must have access to transportation to work out of Evanston and travel to program sites and events.
Must be able to walk distances and navigate stairs to meet with partners, staff, and patients/guests.

Characteristics:

Self-starter and ability to work independently and with a team.
Good time management, organizational, interpersonal, and written skills.
Attention to detail with good analytical, listening and problem-solving skills.
Discrete with ability to maintain confidentiality, use good judgement and sensitivity.
Professional demeanor and role model for other staff.
Customer-oriented with ability to communicate effectively and positively.
Confident, collegial, and direct.

PEER Services, Inc. appreciates the opportunity to provide services to its diverse community, including people of color, low-income and financially insecure, non-English speakers, and LGBTQ+ individuals. We strongly encourage applications from people with these identities and other marginalized communities to join our staff to better serve our clients. PEER Services makes hiring decisions without regard to any person’s race, color, sex, creed, gender identity, gender expression, age, religion, disability, national origin, ancestry, genetic information, sexual orientation, marital status, parental status, pregnancy, military discharge status, source of income, FMLA status, or any other factor determined to be unlawful by federal, state or local statutes.

PEER Services’ Mission is to reduce the harms of substance use, addiction, and stigma by engaging youth and adults with innovative prevention programming and by supporting people on their path to recovery through holistic, evidence-based treatment. We provide affirming services to all in need, regardless of their ability to pay.

PEER Services is a 501(c) (3) non-profit organization. Since 1975, PEER Services has provided community-based substance use prevention and treatment services to teens, adults, and families in Northern Cook County, including Evanston, Maine, New Trier, Niles and Northfield Townships, and the north side of Chicago. PEER Services, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer.