Entry Level Harm Reduction Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Bureau: Behavioral Health Services | Recovery Community Support Services
Full-Time County Contractual Position open to all qualified candidates. Location: 122 North Langley Road, Suite A & B, Glen Burnie, MD 21060 Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Benefits: Participation in the County's group health plan including prescription, dental, and optical, paid holidays and sick leave. Optional deferred compensation program at employee's own expense. Job Description
Nature of Work:
The Crisis Stabilization Services Peer Support Specialist (CSS Peer) is an entry-level position working in partnership with certified recovery housing providers who offer short-term stabilization services lasting typically up to four days. The peer will address recovery challenges and develop a personalized recovery plan with connections to treatment and recovery support services. Crisis Services is an "umbrella term" used to describe the continuum of services to prevent crisis, stabilize and improve psychological symptoms of distress for a person experiencing a crisis as they define it, and engage the person in immediate and ongoing intervention, support and treatment to help them heal and thrive.
As a non-clinical, peer-based position, engage, educate and support individuals to make life changes that maximize harm reduction efforts, minimize adverse consequences, decrease associated risky behaviors, and emphasize health, social, and economic outcomes. The goal is to provide wrap-around support to remove barriers and improve access to high-quality, client-centered, culturally competent care throughout Anne Arundel County, to decrease overdose risk and improve the fundamental overall health and wellness of people who use drugs.
A significant portion of the shift (90%) is spent interacting with the Systems Planning and Management team to track the status of referrals and ensure the process runs smoothly. Engage with participants through regular follow-ups, supporting them throughout their recovery and ensuring discharge procedures are documented and appropriately followed up. Responsible for facilitating care and streamlining handoffs with other parties in the county healthcare system, ensuring that participants receive the appropriate continuing care.
Activities are educational and coaching in nature. A key element that enhances and distinguishes this position is that the peer appropriately highlights their own lived experience to connect with, validate, inspire and support participants. This role is pivotal in improving the overall health and well-being of individuals involved in substance use recovery by offering a holistic, person-centered approach. It combines education, support, practical assistance, and lived experience to help reduce harm and promote long-term recovery success.
Deliver targeted education and outreach, both individually and in group settings, covering the full spectrum of services within the substance use continuum of care. Performance in this role will be reviewed and evaluated by your supervisor to ensure the highest standards of excellence. Responsible for maintaining accurate records in Welligent, a cloud-based electronic health record system, documenting all interactions with participants, and ensuring compliance with required training. Responsibilities may include additional tasks as assigned by a supervisor or management.
Minimum Qualifications
Education:
High School Diploma or Equivalency (GED).
Experience:
At least two years of sustained recovery from a substance use disorder. Familiarity with treatment and community resources that support recovery from addictive diseases and co-occurring behavioral health disorders. Knowledge of harm reduction, social services, and health resources. Experience working with marginalized communities. No current criminal justice system involvement. Behavioral Health Services will consider the length of time since the last conviction and the type of crime.
License or Certification:
Required to obtain a Certified Peer Support Specialist Certification within 18 months from the date of hire from the Maryland Addictions Professional Certification Board. Employees in this classification must complete any additional training that is deemed necessary and appropriate to maintain the required certification.
Notes:
May be assigned duties that require operating a motor vehicle. Required to have a motor vehicle operator's license valid in Maryland and access to a personal vehicle. Work may involve exposure to uncomfortable or unpleasant surroundings when doing work in the community. Will be working with individuals who may not be feeling well. There is the potential for emotionally volatile situations to occur, including unpleasant hygiene.
Desired or Preferred Qualifications:
Able to multitask in a fast-paced environment. Excellent time management, organizational, written and oral communication skills. Able to work independently and on a team. Have an understanding of Anne Arundel County resources. Be proficient with Google Suite, Excel, and electronic medical records. Ability to maintain effective peer recovery relationships with participants and other members of the team.
How to Apply
Applicants who meet the minimum qualifications can apply.
Send a completed or resume to:
Human Resources
3 Harry S. Truman Parkway
Annapolis, MD 21401
Fax to 410-222-4392 or email .
An Equal Opportunity Employer
Smoke-Free Workplace
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Reference #12261