Now Hiring a Full-time Certified Peer Recovery Specialist for the City of Richmond’s Recovery Court

Job Summary:
SAARA of Virginia is seeking a compassionate and experienced Peer Specialist (CPRS or R-CPRS) to provide recovery support to individuals participating in the Recovery Court in partnership with the City of Richmond’s Court System. The Peer Specialist will use their lived experience in recovery—including personal knowledge of a 12-step program and at least four years in recovery—to guide, mentor, and empower participants as they work toward their personal recovery goals. This role requires providing one-on-one support, facilitating recovery groups, connecting participants with community resources, and collaborating closely with the docket team to help participants overcome barriers and achieve program expectations. The ideal candidate will have strong advocacy skills, the ability to work both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team, and a commitment to fostering hope, self-advocacy, and personal responsibility in those they serve.

This role is a grant-funded, full-time, salaried position. Background check required.

Location:

• Hybrid; This role requires travel to the Recovery Court in Richmond and allows for remote work when appropriate.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide one-on-one peer recovery support and assist participants with setting and achieving recovery goals.

• Connect participants with community resources, including housing, medical care, treatment, and recovery support.

• Facilitate weekly recovery support groups.

• Collaborate with the Recovery Court team to help participants overcome barriers and access services.

• Complete case notes, participate in required trainings, and assist with outreach activities

Qualifications:

• Certified Peer Recovery Specialist who has 4 or more years of recovery from Substance Use Disorder

• Has active role in personal recovery

• Has used Narcotics Anonymous or Alcoholics Anonymous as part of their own recovery plan as well as in-depth knowledge of multiple other pathways to recovery

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, both written and verbal

• Ability to maintain effective relationships with participants as well as team members

• Knowledge of community resources

• Able to work from home as well as travel with personal vehicle to multiple locations, including courthouses and outreach locations\

• Able to listen with empathy, share their story, and bring hope and encouragement

• Proven capacity to operate autonomously while contributing effectively to team goals

• Strong advocacy skills

• Must have valid drivers license and vehicle

Benefits:

• Medical and dental insurance

• Paid holidays and sick leave

• 401K eligible after 1 year of employment

SAARA of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion (creed), gender, age, national origin (ancestry), disability, marital status, sexual orientation, political affiliation, gender identification or expression, or military status.

To apply:

Email your resume and cover letter to info@saara.org.

In addition to your résumé and cover letter, please respond to the following short questions (2–4 sentences each) and include them in your email reply or as a separate document:

1. What drew you to the Peer Recovery Specialist role, and why are you interested in working specifically on the Recovery Court?

2. In your own words, what does being a “peer” mean to you, and how do you see that being different from a counselor or case manager?

3. How would you use your lived experience in recovery to support and encourage someone who is struggling with their recovery or facing barriers to reaching their goals?