Now Hiring a Full-time Certified Peer Recovery Specialist for the Alive RVA Warmline
SAARA of Virginia is seeking a qualified professional to join our Alive RVA Warmline team. The qualified person will use their lived experience of recovery to provide a person-centered approach to supporting families and individuals experiencing substance use and behavioral health disorders. The Peer Recovery Specialist will work collaboratively with other peer support staff to operate the Alive RVA Warmline, providing peer support services and resource referrals to individuals over the phone and in the community. The Alive RVA Warmline is a collaborative project with Richmond Behavioral Health Authority, Mental Health Virginia, and SAARA of Virginia.
This role is a grant-funded, full-time, salaried position. Background check required.
Location:
Remote position with requirements to travel to outreach activities
Key Responsibilities:
Provide person-centered peer support to individuals seeking recovery from substance use and behavioral health challenges.
Answer calls to the Alive RVA Warmline, offering encouragement, recovery resources, and referrals.
Support multiple pathways to recovery and help callers explore options that meet their individual needs.
Maintain knowledge of community resources, including treatment, housing, detox, medical care, and recovery support services.
Complete documentation, participate in team meetings, and assist with community outreach.
Qualifications:
High school diploma or GED.
Certified Peer Recovery Specialist (CPRS), or a current Peer Recovery Specialist working toward certification within 90 days of employment.
Two or more years in recovery preferred.
Strong communication, listening, and interpersonal skills.
Ability to maintain confidentiality and work effectively with people from diverse backgrounds.
Reliable internet access.
Valid Virginia driver’s license and personal vehicle.
Ability to travel throughout the greater Richmond area and work evenings and weekends as needed.
Bilingual skills are a plus!
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:
What drew you to the Peer Recovery Specialist role, and why are you interested in working specifically on the Alive RVA Warmline?
Explain your experience providing outreach within the recovery community.
When someone calls the Alive RVA Warmline, they may feel overwhelmed, hopeless, or unsure where to turn for help. How would you approach a conversation with someone in that situation while using your lived experience appropriately?