Peer Specialist (Trenton, NJ)

Can you look into the eyes of someone who is struggling and see their pain – while also seeing their potential?  Are you passionate about providing opportunities to help people rebuild their lives?

The Mission is looking to expand our team of committed staff members who are dedicated to creating an environment where those who have nowhere else to turn can live with dignity, experience hope and see new opportunities.

The Rescue Mission of Trenton is seeking a compassionate and dedicated Peer Recovery Specialist to join our Behavioral Health team. Every day, you'll have the opportunity to help individuals take meaningful steps toward recovery, stability, and a brighter future.

As a Peer Recovery Specialist, you will use your lived experience, empathy, and encouragement to support individuals participating in residential substance use treatment. You'll serve as a trusted mentor, advocate, and source of hope while helping clients navigate challenges, stay engaged in treatment, and build a foundation for long-term recovery.

Schedule & Pay
Schedule: TBD
Hours: 10:30 PM – 7:00 AM (30-minute unpaid lunch)
Pay:

• $17.51/hour (without CPRS Certification)
• $18.54/hour (with CPRS Certification)
• Additional $1.00 per hour worked quarterly bonus

What You'll Do

• Welcome and support clients as they enter treatment.
• Build trust through empathy, active listening, and recovery-focused support.
• Conduct wellness checks and regular client check-ins throughout the shift.
• Provide one-on-one peer coaching, encouragement, and mentorship.
• Assist clients in developing recovery goals and connecting with community resources.
• Support a safe, structured, and therapeutic residential environment.
• Help de-escalate conflicts and provide support during challenging situations.
• Encourage participation in treatment, recovery programming, and daily activities.
• Complete documentation and collaborate with clinical and treatment staff.

Qualifications
Required

• Lived experience with substance use recovery and a minimum of six months of stable recovery following discharge.
• Strong communication, engagement, and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to work with individuals experiencing substance use disorders, mental health challenges, trauma, and homelessness.
• CPRS Certification or ability to obtain certification within six months of hire.

Preferred

• Active CPRS Certification.
• Experience in behavioral health, residential treatment, recovery support, or human services.
• Knowledge of trauma-informed care, motivational interviewing, and de-escalation techniques.
• Bilingual or bicultural experience.
• Valid driver's license.

Why Join the Rescue Mission of Trenton?
At the Rescue Mission, you'll be part of a team that believes recovery is possible and that every person deserves dignity, support, and a second chance. We value lived experience, foster professional growth, and provide opportunities to make a real difference in the Mercer County community.

What We Offer
We support the people who support others:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance (effective the first month following hire)
• Low employee healthcare costs
• 100% Employer-Paid Life Insurance
• 401(k) with a 2% employer contribution and up to a 4% employer match
• Paid Time Off available immediately upon hire
• Professional development and training opportunities
• Supportive, mission-driven work environment
• Opportunities for advancement within a growing behavioral health program

Equal Opportunity Employer
The Rescue Mission of Trenton is committed to creating a workplace where all employees are treated with dignity and respect. We provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants and welcome candidates from diverse backgrounds.

Individuals with lived experience, histories of homelessness, or justice-system involvement are strongly encouraged to apply.
 

Department: Behavioral Health
This is a full time position