*Sign-On Bonus
Take advantage of our new sign-on bonus! Center for Family Services is a place where you can be part of a dynamic, top workplace team dedicated to improving lives. When you apply and get hired, you are eligible for a $500 sign-on bonus.
Location: Camden County, NJ
Job Type/Status: Full-Time
POSITION SUMMARY:The Peer Support Specialist is a person with lived experience in recovery from mental health challenges, substance use, homelessness, or justice system involvement who uses that experience to support others in crisis. The Peer provides emotional support, advocacy, mentoring, and connection to resources while promoting hope and empowerment. This role is critical in building trust with individuals in crisis and modeling recovery and resilience.
Duties and Responsibilities:
Respond to community-based crisis calls alongside the CCRT team to provide peer-led support.
Share personal recovery experiences in a way that inspires hope and empowers others.
Provide emotional support, active listening, and advocacy to individuals experiencing crisis.
Assist individuals in identifying goals, strengths, and coping strategies.
Accompany individuals to appointments, community services, or shelters as needed.
Help individuals navigate mental health, substance use, housing, and social service systems.
Support de-escalation efforts and safety planning in collaboration with clinical staff.
Promote harm reduction strategies and model recovery-oriented behavior.
Maintain accurate, timely documentation of services provided.
Participate in regular supervision, team meetings, and training (including trauma-informed care, harm reduction, and crisis intervention).
Engage in community outreach and public education efforts to reduce stigma and promote peer involvement.
Adhere to all Center For Family Services policies and CCRT program procedures.
Perform other related duties as assigned.
Physical Demands
Travel to various community locations and CFS sites is required.
Ability to sit or stand for extended periods.
Must be able to lift up to 30 pounds.
High school diploma or equivalent required.
Certification as a Peer Support Specialist or willingness to complete peer certification training within 6 months of hire.
Lived experience with recovery from mental health, substance use, homelessness, or justice system involvement is required.
At least one year of experience in peer support, outreach, or working with vulnerable populations preferred.
Ability to establish rapport with individuals in crisis and build trust quickly.
Strong listening and communication skills.
Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
Flexible schedule, including availability on evenings and weekends.
Valid driver's license, automobile insurance, and clean driving record.
Bilingual (Spanish) preferred.
Benefits:
At the Center for Family Services, our employees are our greatest resource, and we are committed to investing in our staff. We offer a competitive benefits package as well as ongoing resources that will support staff on their personal and professional journey.*
Excellent paid time off (PTO) program, including vacation, sick, personal, and holiday
401k Plan
Medical insurance plan options
Dental & Vision Insurance
Prescription Insurance
Life Insurance
Flexible Spending Accounts
Health & Wellness Activities
Ongoing Training & Professional Development Opportunities
Opportunity for advancement
About Employment at Center For Family Services Apply and get hired at Center For Family Services, a leader in the non-profit sector and named as a top workplace in the region since 2010. As part of our team, you will be recognized as our most valuable resource. Our staff balance best practices with personalized care. Together, our team makes a positive difference in the lives of people in need. If you're interested in a rewarding career, Center For Family Services is a great place to grow as a professional. For more information about our top workplace, please visit the Center For Family Services website at www.centerffs.org.
Disclaimer Many positions require motor vehicle record evaluations and medical clearances. Center For Family Services is an equal opportunity employer offering competitive salaries and excellent benefits packages.