Mental Health Peer Specialist

The Peer Support Specialist will provide recovery-oriented support to individuals with mental health and/or substance use challenges who are incarcerated in the Titus County Jail and preparing to return to the community. The Peer Support Specialist will use their lived experience of recovery to build rapport, inspire hope, and support individuals as they work toward personal recovery and successful reintegration into the community. The position will assist individuals in identifying recovery goals, developing coping strategies, and connecting with behavioral health treatment, housing resources, and other community supports.

Responsibilities include assisting with psychoeducational and recovery-focused groups, participating in discharge planning and reentry coordination, and providing encouragement and support to individuals during incarceration and following release. The Peer Support Specialist will work collaboratively with the Jail-Based Behavioral Health Coordinator, jail staff, and community providers to support continuity of care and engagement in services.

This position plays an important role in bridging the gap between incarceration and community-based behavioral health services by helping individuals navigate resources, strengthen recovery skills, and develop plans for long-term stability. The Peer Support Specialist must demonstrate professionalism, maintain confidentiality, and follow all safety and operational procedures required within the jail environment. This is a grant-funded position supported through the Mental Health Grant for Justice-Involved Individuals (MHGJII) and is currently funded through August 31, 2028. Individuals with lived experience of recovery and/or involvement in the criminal justice system are strongly encouraged to apply.

Schedule: Monday - Friday 8am - 5pm

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Certified Peer Specialist (Mental Health or Recovery) or ability to obtain certification within six months of hire.
• Lived experience with recovery from mental health or substance use challenges and willingness to share that experience to support others.
• Valid Texas driver’s license and reliable transportation.
• Ability to pass required background checks and obtain clearance to work within the jail facility.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and follow agency and jail safety procedures.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Experience providing peer support or working in behavioral health, recovery, or reentry services.
• Knowledge of community resources related to behavioral health treatment, housing, and recovery supports.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.
• Individuals with lived experience of involvement in the criminal justice system who are in stable recovery are encouraged to apply.

Employee Benefits at Full-Time Include:

•  Employer-Cost Sharing of Health Insurance (Plus 50% of Elected Dependent Coverage)
• Employer-Paid Short-Term Disability Insurance
• Employer-Paid Term Life Insurance
• Employer-Match Retirement Contributions (Up to 5% of Base Salary)
• Optional Dental, Vision, Life and Long-Term Disability Insurance
• 13 Paid Holidays per Year
• 2 Weeks of Paid Vacation Leave per Year with Graduating Accrual Rate
• 2 Weeks of Paid Sick Leave per Year
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness
• Tuition discounts for select Colleges