Peer Recovery Specialist (SUD) - ULSTER COUNTY in New York, New York at Independent Living Inc

Title: Peer Recovery Specialist (SUD) – Substance Use Disorder - ULSTER COUNTY

Position Type: Full-time, Non-exempt

Reports to: Program Manager (SUD)

Base Location: Newburgh

Schedule: Tuesday - Saturday 9am-5pm

Pay Rate:$25.00/hr

*** This position provides support and services throughout Ulster County***

About Independent Living, Inc.

Since 1987, Independent Living, Inc. (ILI) has been increasing access, encouraging self-determination, and advocating for the rights of people with disabilities throughout the Hudson Valley of New York. Following the traditional independent living center (ILC) model, the majority of ILI’s board and staff are individuals with disabilities, bringing valuable peer and life-experience perspectives to the services we provide.

ILI is committed to empowering individuals to live independently and participate fully in their communities.

Interested in learning more about who we are? We encourage applicants to watch our agency video to gain insight into our mission, vision, values, and the impact we make within the community. The video offers a closer look at our culture and the meaningful work our team does every day. Please select the link below for your preferred platform to view the video.

YouTube: https://youtu.be/pc1BlNdilYM

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MyIndependentLiving

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/myindependentliving/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@myindependentlivinginc

Why Work with Us?

• Join a mission-driven organization dedicated to building a barrier-free society and supporting independent living
• Be part of a collaborative workplace that embraces diversity and innovation, where every team member’s voice and lived experience are respected and valued
• Be part of an organization that champions inclusive hiring practices and actively welcomes individuals of all abilities, recognizing the value of both visible and non-visible disabilities
• Help expand access to treatment and recovery supports by promoting multiple pathways to recovery, including Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT).
• Develop strong partnerships with healthcare providers, community organizations, and support networks to improve outcomes for individuals affected by substance use disorders.

About the Role

The Peer Recovery Specialist (SUD) provides peer-based support, advocacy, education, and mentorship to individuals and families impacted by substance use disorders. Drawing upon lived experience and recovery-oriented practices, this role empowers individuals to identify personal goals, strengthen self-advocacy skills, access community resources, and achieve greater independence and wellness. The Peer Recovery Specialist works collaboratively with treatment providers, community partners, and families to promote engagement, recovery, and sustained community integration.

What You'll Do

• Provide peer support and encouragement to individuals throughout all stages of recovery.
• Promote and advocate for multiple pathways to recovery, including partnerships with Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) programs.
• Assist individuals and families in understanding and navigating treatment systems, community resources, and insurance-related barriers to care.
• Facilitate support groups, educational workshops, and skill-building activities focused on substance use recovery and wellness.
• Partner with individuals to develop person-centered recovery plans and self-directed wellness goals.
• Connect individuals with resources related to housing, employment, education, transportation, benefits, legal assistance, healthcare, and other community supports.
• Serve as a mentor and role model, encouraging self-advocacy, informed decision-making, and independence.
• Provide support during times of crisis and assist individuals in identifying effective recovery-oriented coping strategies.
• Advocate for individuals' rights and address barriers to accessing services and supports.
• Collaborate with community providers and partner organizations to maintain an integrated network of support services.
• Educate individuals, families, and community stakeholders about substance use disorders, recovery resources, and available supports.
• Maintain accurate documentation, complete required reports, and enter program data within established timeframes.
• Participate in required meetings, trainings, and partner-site onboarding activities necessary to fulfill job responsibilities.

The Ideal Candidate Will Have

• High school diploma or equivalent required; bachelor's degree in Human Services or a related field preferred.
• Minimum of two years of peer support, advocacy, coaching, or related experience.
• Lived experience with substance use recovery, either personally or through supporting a family member or close friend, and comfort with purposeful self-disclosure when appropriate.
• Working knowledge of the recovery process and a commitment to promoting multiple pathways to recovery.
• Strong interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills.
• Excellent organizational and time-management abilities, with the capacity to work independently.
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation.
• Willingness to complete approved advocacy training programs within the first six months of employment.

It Would Be a Plus If You Also Have

• Certified Recovery Peer Advocate (CRPA) credential.
• New York Certified Peer Specialist (NYCPS) certification.
• Experience facilitating peer support groups or recovery-focused educational programs.
• Bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish.
• Knowledge of American Sign Language (ASL).

Success in This Role Will Be Demonstrated Through

• Establishing trusting, supportive relationships that encourage engagement in recovery services.
• Assisting individuals in achieving identified recovery and wellness goals through person-centered planning and resource connection.
• Effectively advocating for individuals and families while promoting self-determination and independence.
• Maintaining strong collaborative relationships with treatment providers, community partners, and support networks.
• Completing documentation, reporting requirements, and data entry accurately and within required timelines.
• Contributing to positive outcomes that enhance community integration, quality of life, and sustained recovery for individuals served.

Benefits available to you include:

• Paid holidays from the first day of employment
• Paid lunch break
• Paid time off
• 401(k) with company match
• Health, Dental and Vision insurance
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
• Company provided Life, AD&D and Short- and Long-Term disability insurance
• Voluntary insurances including Critical Illness and Hospital Indemnity

We actively support an inclusive hiring process and encourage people with disabilities, visible and non-visible, to apply. If you require reasonable accommodation to support the application or onboarding process, please contact Latoya Merricks at (845) 674-7752.

ILI is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability status, veteran status, or any other characteristic or status protected by applicable law.

To apply, visit us at https://www.myindependentliving.org/careers/