Certified Peer Specialist

Now Hiring: Certified Peer Specialist

Lutheran Social Services of WI & Upper MI

Location: Wisconsin (community‑based role with local travel)

Hours: Part‑time, ~20 hours/week (potential to grow to full‑time)

LSS is seeking a Certified Peer Specialist to join our mission‑driven team! If you're passionate about advocacy, recovery, and empowering others, this role offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact every day.

As a Peer Specialist, you'll provide advocacy, referrals, crisis intervention, and problem‑solving support for individuals experiencing mental health challenges and/or substance use disorders. You'll use your training and lived experience to walk alongside clients on their recovery journey.

This position supports our Forensic Team, serving individuals in the Opening Avenues to Re‑Entry Success (OARS) and Conditional Release programs. Using a collaborative, team‑based approach, we partner with community organizations to help participants build stability and the skills needed to thrive in the community.

This is a part‑time role (~20 hours/week) with the potential to grow into full‑time.

Direct Service Requirements

(Required for all employees providing direct services)

• Promote client independence and growth in alignment with service plans.

• Provide services using a trauma‑informed, person‑centered approach.

• Utilize evidence‑based practices approved by the agency and funders.

• Complete time reporting accurately and consistently.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

(Not all‑inclusive; duties may evolve as needed)

• Teach coping and wellness strategies related to mental illness and substance use recovery.

• Model healthy behaviors and offer hope by appropriately sharing personal recovery experiences.

• Facilitate mentoring and group sessions focused on mental health topics.

• Assist members with daily life problem‑solving.

• Support clients in navigating county and city systems to build independence and financial/social responsibility.

• Collaborate with staff to provide basic case management, including housing and employment support.

• Mentor Peer Specialists‑in‑Training, as applicable.

• Maintain respectful, professional interactions with all stakeholders.

• Meet established productivity expectations for the role and program.

Perks & Benefits

• Mileage reimbursement

• 403B contribution option

• Annual raises prioritized

• Employee Assistance Program

• Service awards & recognition

Education & Experience

• Knowledge of mental illness through education, training, work, volunteerism, or lived experience.

• High school diploma or GED required.

• Understanding of crisis intervention, trauma‑informed care, and recovery philosophy.

• Familiarity with local social services.

• Strong problem‑solving, empathy, and relationship‑building skills.

• Ability to communicate effectively with team members and external partners (e.g., county staff, landlords, employers).

Certificates & Licensure

• Must be Wisconsin Certified as a Peer Specialist.

Travel

• Day‑to‑day travel required, subject to client and program needs.

Lutheran Social Services of Wisconsin & Upper Michigan is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE).