What are the responsibilities and job description for the Certified Peer Specialist - Bilingual in Spanish/English position at Peerstar?
Company Description Peerstar is a pioneering behavioral health organization specializing in peer support services grounded in lived experience and authentic connection. The organization supports adults, older adults, transitional-age adults, and individuals with forensic backgrounds who are living with mental health and recovery challenges. By matching participants with staff who have navigated similar journeys, Peerstar offers hope, practical guidance, and understanding that comes from personal experience. With a dedicated team serving 35 counties across Pennsylvania, including from Pittsburgh to Philadelphia, Peerstar meets people in person and virtually to promote wellness, independence, and lasting recovery. Licensed as a Free Standing Peer Support Program, Peerstar works to empower recovery and strengthen communities one person at a time.
Role Description The Certified Peer Specialist - Bilingual in Spanish/English is a full-time hybrid role based in Philadelphia, PA, with opportunities for some work from home. In this role, the specialist will use their own lived experience with mental health and/or recovery to provide peer support, encouragement, and practical guidance to participants in both Spanish and English. Daily responsibilities include meeting with individuals in the community or virtually, assisting with recovery and wellness planning, and helping participants set and pursue self-directed goals. The specialist will document services, coordinate with clinical and support teams, and advocate for participants’ needs within the behavioral health system. The role also involves attending trainings, team meetings, and supervision sessions to maintain certification, uphold ethical standards, and continuously improve peer support skills.
Qualifications
- Demonstrated lived experience with mental health and/or substance use recovery, and readiness to use that experience in a supportive, professional manner.
- Fluency in spoken and written Spanish and English, with the ability to provide peer support, advocacy, and documentation in both languages.
- Strong interpersonal, communication, and active listening skills, including the ability to build trust, maintain boundaries, and work with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
- Organizational and time-management skills to manage a caseload, complete documentation accurately, and coordinate appointments and follow-ups.
- Comfort with basic technology, such as email, electronic documentation systems, and virtual meeting platforms, for hybrid in-person and remote service delivery.
- Current or eligible Certified Peer Specialist (CPS) credential in Pennsylvania, or willingness to complete required training and certification within a specified timeframe.
- High school diploma or equivalent; additional education in behavioral health, social services, or related fields is beneficial.
- Ability to travel locally within Philadelphia and surrounding areas as needed to meet participants in the community (reliable transportation is preferred).
- Knowledge of community resources, behavioral health services, and recovery-oriented practices is an advantage.