Certified Recovery Peer Specialist

Job Summary:

The Jail Bridge Peer Navigator will provide critical peer recovery support to individuals who are currently incarcerated and within 90 days of release. This position focuses on connecting individuals to recovery resources, support services, and post-incarceration care plans to reduce the risk of relapse and recidivism. By leveraging their lived experience with substance use recovery and/or criminal justice involvement, the Peer Navigator will build trusting relationships with incarcerated individuals, offering hope and facilitating recovery pathways.

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The Jail Bridge Peer Navigator acts as a liaison between the jail system, community recovery resources, and Zero Hour Life Center’s continuum of care. This position will also assist individuals in preparing for re-entry by developing recovery-focused discharge plans, ensuring post-release follow-up, and providing linkage to recovery services, housing, and community resources.

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Key Responsibilities:

• Peer Recovery Support:

  • Meet with individuals currently incarcerated who are identified as being at risk for substance use relapse or those who have requested recovery services.

  • Provide non-clinical support, motivational coaching, and encouragement, drawing from personal experience in recovery.

  • Develop rapport with incarcerated individuals to build trust and model the possibility of recovery and re-entry success.

• Bridge to Services:

  • Facilitate access to community recovery resources and services, including treatment programs, housing, job readiness, and medical/mental health care.

  • Assist with completing applications for post-release services, including housing, treatment programs, and benefits such as SOAR.

  • Coordinate with jail case managers and external agencies to facilitate the re-entry process for individuals.

• Discharge Planning & Re-Entry Preparation:

  • Create and implement individualized re-entry plans focusing on recovery and relapse prevention, housing stability, employment, and other social determinants of health.

  • Provide information and referrals to community services, such as housing, employment, education, medical services, and mental health/substance use treatment providers.

  • Ensure all individuals receive linkage to appropriate recovery services and follow-up support after release.

• Outreach and Engagement:

  • Maintain regular contact with community organizations, service providers, and recovery programs to build strong referral networks.

  • Engage individuals in peer recovery services during incarceration and establish connections to ensure continuity of care after release.

  • Collaborate with probation/parole officers, treatment providers, and case managers to ensure coordinated care for individuals upon release.

• Documentation and Reporting:

  • Accurately document all client interactions, discharge plans, and re-entry preparations using organizational databases and systems.

  • Maintain confidentiality in all client records in compliance with HIPAA and other applicable laws and regulations.

  • Provide data and reports as requested by the Program Manager for internal audits or grant purposes.

• Advocacy:

  • Advocate for individuals’ needs in the context of recovery support, re-entry planning, and service coordination.

  • Promote recovery-oriented thinking within the jail system and foster a supportive culture around re-entry and rehabilitation.

• Other Duties:

  • Attend staff meetings, training, and supervision sessions as scheduled.

  • Perform other duties as assigned by the Program Manager or the CEO.

Qualifications:

• Lived Experience:

  • Must have personal experience with substance use recovery, with a minimum of 2 years of sustained recovery.

  • Lived experience with the criminal justice system or incarceration is preferred.

• Education/Certification:

  • High school diploma or GED required.

  • Completion of the Certified Recovery Peer Specialist (CRPS) or willingness to obtain certification within 6 months of employment.

• Knowledge/Skills:

  • Strong understanding of addiction recovery principles, peer support services, and re-entry planning.

  • Familiarity with the jail system, community recovery resources, and social service agencies.

  • Excellent communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills.

  • Ability to handle sensitive situations with empathy and maintain confidentiality.

  • Proficiency in basic computer applications (email, word processing, etc.) and electronic health records (EHR).

• Other Requirements:

  • Valid Florida driver’s license and reliable transportation.

  • Ability to work in a jail environment, including clearance through background checks.

  • Commitment to the mission and values of Zero Hour Life Center and supporting individuals on their recovery journey.

 

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to be present and active in a various community settings.

• Occasional travel to other healthcare facilities or community events may be required.

 

Benefits:

• Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications

• Paid time off and holidays

• Professional development and certification support

• Opportunities for personal and professional growth within a supportive, recovery-focused organization

 

Compensation: Commensurate with experience and other qualifications.

Starting Pay: $31,200 Annually (based on experience)

 

Job Type: Full-time

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Schedule: 40 hours, some nights and/or weekends

 

License/Certification:

• Driver's License (Required)

• Recovery Peer Specialist Certification (Preferred)