Peer Engagement Specialist

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
Drop-In Center Oversight:

Open, staff, and close the drop-in center during scheduled hours.
Ensure the physical space is safe, welcoming, clean, and stocked with necessary
supplies.

Maintain a consistent presence to support peer engagement, conflict resolution, and a positive, recovery-friendly environment.

Enforce program rules, boundaries, and guidelines while using trauma-informed practices.

Promote a culture of inclusivity, equity, and recovery in all areas

Peer Support Services:

Provide one-on-one peer support to individuals, using lived experience to offer hope,
encouragement, and practical recovery tools.

Encourage self-advocacy, self-determination, personal responsibility, and resiliency in
all interactions, aligning with recovery principles and trauma-informed care.

Establish and maintain supportive, non-judgmental relationships with peers based on
mutual respect, shared lived experience, and cultural sensitivity.

Facilitate group discussions and recovery-focused activities (e.g., wellness planning,
coping skills, substance-free living).

Assist peers in developing and reviewing individualized Recovery Support Plans.
Connect peers with community resources including housing, food assistance, harm
reduction, employment support, treatment referrals and others as necessary.
Uphold the Code of Ethics for Peer Supporters, including boundaries, confidentiality,
and professional conduct at all times.

Trauma-Informed Communication & De-escalation:

Model and enforce trauma-informed principles including safety, trustworthiness, choice, collaboration, and empowerment.

Utilize active listening, non-violent communication, and emotional regulation skills when interacting with peers, especially during distress or behavioral escalations.

Respond calmly and consistently to disruptive behavior, using established de-escalation techniques and involving supervisors or crisis resources as needed.

Encourage staff and peers to maintain an environment rooted in dignity, respect, and non-judgment.

Documentation & Accountability:

Complete accurate, timely documentation of peer interactions and group services in
accordance with confidentiality standards and program requirements.

Track attendance, referrals, incidents, and service outcomes.

Follow all agency policies and funding guidelines, including those related to
confidentiality (HIPAA), mandatory reporting, and boundaries.

Professional Expectations:

Maintain current Ohio Peer Recovery Supporter Certification and complete continuing
education and supervision hours as required.

Attend and actively contribute to staff meetings, supervision sessions, training events,
and interdisciplinary case reviews to ensure coordinated and holistic care.

Communicate effectively with colleagues and supervisors, providing feedback,
suggestions, or concerns as appropriate.

Work Expectations:

Maintain flexibility in scheduling, including potential evening/weekend shifts.

Work in various environments, including community settings, peer homes, and service
locations.

Report any personal or professional changes that may impact your certification or
ability to perform job duties.

Ability to work in a community-based environment with a range of client behaviors
and emotional needs.

Ability to stand or sit for extended periods, perform light cleaning or setup tasks, and
assist in managing emergency situations.

WORK EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS
High School Diploma or equivalent required. Hold a current, active Ohio Peer Recovery Supporter
Certification or achieve within six months of hire. Maintain at least one continuous year in personal
recovery, modeling recovery-oriented values. Demonstrate continued competence in peer support
practices, trauma-informed care, and cultural humility. Must be able to achieve NPI number and
Medicaid billing number within 90 days of hire.

Uphold all requirements of employment including transportation, communication, and attendance
standards.