Example Job Description: Recovery Support Peer Specialist (RSPS)

Position Title

Recovery Support Peer Specialist (RSPS)

Position Summary

The Recovery Support Peer Specialist (RSPS) provides peer-to-peer recovery support services to individuals with substance use challenges, using lived experience, to promote hope, self-determination, and long-term recovery. The RSPS supports individuals through mentoring, skill-building, resource navigation, and connection to recovery-oriented supports while modeling healthy recovery practices.

This position is grounded in peer support values, trauma-informed care, and person-centered approaches.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Provide individual peer support services using lived recovery experience to encourage engagement, empowerment, and recovery goal-setting
• Share personal recovery experiences appropriately to inspire hope and model recovery-oriented behaviors
• Support individuals in developing recovery plans, identifying strengths, and building natural support
• Assist individuals in accessing community resources such as treatment services, housing, employment, education, and recovery groups
• Facilitate or co-facilitate peer support groups, workshops, or recovery-focused activities
• Support individuals during periods of increased stress or risk while maintaining appropriate peer boundaries
• Collaborate with supervisors, care teams, and partner organizations, as appropriate
• Maintain timely and accurate documentation in accordance with organizational, state, and funding requirements
• Uphold confidentiality, peer ethics, and professional boundaries at all times
• Comply with mandated reporting requirements under Texas law
• Participate in supervision, training, and continuing education, as required

Minimum Qualifications

• Lived experience in long-term recovery (minimum 1-2 years of sobriety) from substance use disorder
• Certified Recovery Support Peer Specialist (RSPS) through the Texas Certification Board or ability to obtain certification within a specified timeframe
• Completion of required Core Peer Training and RSPS Supplemental Training
• Ability to share lived experience in a purposeful, recovery-focused, and ethical manner
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and relationship-building skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience providing peer support or recovery services
• Experience facilitating peer groups or workshops
• Familiarity with local recovery, behavioral health, and social service systems
• Bilingual or culturally responsive skill sets relevant to the population served

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Understanding of recovery-oriented systems of care and peer support principles
• Ability to establish trust and rapport with individuals from diverse backgrounds
• Skills in active listening, motivational support, and strength-based engagement
• Ability to maintain professional boundaries and confidentiality
• Basic computer skills for documentation and communication

Working Conditions

• Services may be provided in community settings, office environments, partner locations, or virtually
• May require flexible scheduling, including evenings or weekends
• Occasional travel within the service area may be required

Supervision

The Recovery Support Peer Specialist (RSPS) reports to a designated supervisor and participates in regular supervision and performance evaluations.

Equal Opportunity Statement

[Organization Name] is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic.