Certified Peer Specialist - CCS in Milwaukee, Wisconsin at Wisconsin Community Services

At WCS , we believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to thrive , regardless of their past. We stand at the intersection of justice, compassion, and opportunity , walking alongside individuals who face barriers like mental health challenges, substance use, criminal justice involvement, and systemic inequities .

We're not just offering jobswere building life-changing relationships that empower individuals to reclaim their futures.

Why WCS?

• Youll be part of a mission-driven team changing lives across Milwaukee and beyond.
• Youll receive training, mentorship, and growth opportunities to help you thrive in your role and your career.
• Youll witness the power of transformation and know that you helped make it happen.
• Youll work in a culture that values a culture of belonging, collaboration, and compassion .

The Comprehensive Community Services (CCS) Certified Peer Specialist provides support to adults who are experiencing mental health, substance use, and/or co-occurring needs. The position is responsible for supporting, educating, and mentoring individuals enrolled in CCS services. The Certified Peer Support Specialist serves as a coach or mentor who, through their own lived experience with recovery, provides guidance and role modeling to support wellness, purpose, meaningful relationships, and personal growth in the recovery process.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Serve as a member of the CCS team providing peer support to individuals with mental health, substance use, and/or co-occurring needs.
• Use personal life and recovery experience to role model wellness, self-direction, and recovery.
• Build person-centered, strength-based, and trauma-informed relationships that empower individuals to meet their recovery goals
• Offer a range of peer support services that promote skill development, self-advocacy, and support for both individuals and their families.
• Participate in Recovery Team meetings to develop and monitor individualized recovery plans.
• Ensure individuals have access to transportation for CCS-related appointments.
• Maintain accurate documentation in compliance with agency policies and applicable local, state, and federal codes. Ensure timely and appropriate case file management.
• Attend required staff meetings, trainings, and professional development activities.
• Adhere to agency policies and procedures; maintain a flexible schedule to meet program needs.

Required Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Experience serving people with mental health, substance use, and/or co-occurring needs.
• Completion of a State of Wisconsin approved Peer Specialist Training and current State Certification as a Peer Specialist.
• Meet all WCS and contractor requirements for criminal and caregiver background checks, drivers record, and drug screen.
• Valid driver's license, automobile, and sufficient insurance to meet agency requirements.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Actively in recovery from mental health, substance use, or co-occurring needs, and willing to share personal recovery experiences.
• Knowledge and experience supporting individuals in recovery from mental health, substance use, and/or co-occurring needs.
• Demonstrate strong assessment, interviewing, and rapport-building skills; navigate challenging situations effectively.
• Highly organized, flexible, and able to multitask; use time and resources efficiently to ensure high-quality CCS service delivery.
• Demonstrate commitment to the agencys mission and values.
• Conduct self ethically and professionally in all interactions. Maintain respectful, collaborative relationships with staff, individuals served, and external partners.
• Adhere to agency Code of Conduct, Core Values, and all relevant policies and procedures and funding source requirements.
• Demonstrate cultural sensitivity and awareness of ethnic, gender, and disability-related issues.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
Position is mobile with some time spent in the community, including transporting consumers, home visits, and attending meetings. Driving throughout Milwaukee County. Able to navigate stairs.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:
Work is performed primarily in the community, including peoples homes and various community-based locations. Some work is done in an office setting. Hours average 40 hours per week.

Wisconsin Community Services, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, ethnicity, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, or disability status.

WCS is seeking a compassionate Certified Peer Specialist to join the Comprehensive Community Services (CCS) team in Milwaukee. In this mission-driven role, you will use your personal lived experience with mental health, substance use, or co-occurring recovery to mentor, support, and empower adults facing systemic barriers. You will serve as a vital coach and role model, helping individuals navigate their personal journeys toward wellness, self-direction, and meaningful personal growth.

As a Peer Specialist, you will collaborate with the CCS recovery team to build person-centered, trauma-informed relationships that foster self-advocacy and skill development. Your core duties include participating in recovery planning meetings, assisting with client transportation for appointments, and maintaining accurate, timely case documentation in compliance with agency policies. WCS offers a supportive work culture with ongoing training, mentorship, and opportunities to make a direct, life-changing impact in the community.