Senior Peer Specialist

Loudoun County Government has been named one of Forbes' 2025 Best Large Employers! We're proud to be recognized nationally for our commitment to employee satisfaction and excellence in public service. At Loudoun County, we bring together talented professionals from all backgrounds to make a meaningful impact in a dynamic, growing community - that's The Loudoun Difference.

Welcome and thank you for your interest in employment with Loudoun County Government!

ALL SECTIONS OF THE APPLICATION MUST BE COMPLETED IN ITS ENTIRETY. THE RESUME IS CONSIDERED SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION ONLY. APPLICATIONS THAT ARE INCOMPLETE OR INDICATE 'SEE RESUME' WILL NOT BE TAKEN INTO CONSIDERATION.

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The Loudoun County Department of Mental Health, Substance Abuse and Developmental Services is seeking a talented and motivated individual to serve as a Senior Peer Specialist in the Assertive Community Treatment program. In this role, you will work with a trusted and reputable team that has a history of success connecting individuals and their families with person-centered, recovery-oriented services and supports.

We welcome new teammates who approach their professional careers with enthusiasm and dedication to our diverse and fast-growing county. Come be a part of something that matters.

MHSADS is seeking a Senior Peer Specialist, with lived experience of having a mental health and/or substance use diagnosis, to join the ACT Program. The ACT Program specializes in engaging individuals in services where they are willing to engage for ongoing behavioral healthcare. The ACT Senior Peer Specialist responds to any location throughout the County (street outreach, hospitals, homes, shelters, drop-in centers, etc.). The program supports individuals in averting psychiatric hospitalizations, incarcerations and episodes of experiencing homelessness. Utilizes the Action Planning for Prevention and Recovery (APPR) and develops crisis plans with individuals in service. Co-leads ACT wellness groups.

The successful candidate:

• Supports effective and timely crisis interventions practices, the Senior Peer Specialist uses his/her lived experience to engage, advocate, and provide education to those experiencing a crisis.
• May need to contact 911 or other emergency services and/or petition the Magistrate as part of a civil commitment process.
• Helps individuals navigate the behavioral healthcare system.
• Acts a mentor to individuals in service.
• Provides in-service training to the ACT team about peer services.
• Links individuals and family members to community resources to support recovery.
• Provides interventions to individuals in and outside of the clinic independent of other ACT providers.
  

High school diploma or equivalent and three (3) years of related work experience, along with personal experience as an individual with behavioral health treatment or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Certification as a Peer Recovery Specialist.
• Bilingual (English and Spanish) candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.

Employment is contingent upon successfully passing pre-employment background check, to include fingerprinting, credit, NCIC, DMV and TB test.

• Must be fitted for N-95 (or similar) mask to safely provide on-site services as needed.
• Must be available for duty beyond normal workday as required to perform functions of position for the MHSADS department and ACT program.
• ACT operates 24/7/365 and this position includes holidays, weekends and evenings.
• This position is designated as Essential Personnel and as such, must report to work (including driving vehicles) during inclement weather, disasters, and emergencies.
• Regular work environment includes inside and outside multiple locations throughout the County, individual's homes, and/or clinics and offices.
• Work is performed dealing with crisis situations that require making decisions involving people, resources, and property.
• Must have a good driving record and a valid driver's license in Virginia or regional state of residence.

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Equal Employment Opportunity

Loudoun County Government prides itself on fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace that promotes employee wellness and work-life balance. As an equal opportunity employer, we consider all qualified applicants regardless of age, color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation or other non-merit factors.

Reasonable Accommodation

Applicants who wish to request a reasonable accommodation during the recruitment process should call Human Resources directly at

703-777-0213 or email Human Resources.