Type: Full-Time

Reports to: Recovery Supervisor

Office Location: 224 West Hill, Suite 410. Chicago IL; Primary work location includes community-based settings and assigned SMHRF/SNF facilities throughout the Chicagoland area.

Background:

Guided by the experiences of those living with mental health conditions and rooted in equity, NAMI Chicago educates to fight stigma and discrimination, fiercely advocates for our community, and shares hope, connection and expertise with people on their mental health journey. NAMI Chicago seeks to fill gaps in Chicago's mental health system, with an intentional emphasis on racial equity and breaking down barriers to care.

Who We Are Looking For:

NAMI Chicago is seeking a Recovery Support Associate who is passionate about peer support, community connection, and recovery-oriented care. The ideal candidate values collaboration, mutuality, and the power of lived experience to inspire hope and support others in their recovery journey. This role supports Class Members in building meaningful community connections, increasing independence, and engaging in wellness-focused activities throughout the community. Candidates with a CRSS or CPRS credential are strongly encouraged to apply.

Essential Functions & Responsibilities:

• Provides peer support services to class members residing in SMHRF/SNFs. Engages with class members in facility and community settings.
• Builds strengths-based relationships with Class Members to support recovery, independence, and community integration.
• Uses own lived experience to provide peer support, encouragement, and hope
• Conducts community meetings/forums and informational question and answer sessions hosted in SMHRF or SNF
• Provides skill building assistance and program education to help Class Members gain confidence in their transition
• Provides support with self-advocacy and follow up with service providers on behalf of Class Member
• Provides additional linkage to community resources and supports in collaboration with Prime Agencies
• Maintains accurate documentation and completes reports in a timely manner
• Facilitates peer support groups, recovery discussions, and peer-led trainings.
• Participates in supervision, team meetings, and ongoing peer support training and development.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Essential Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Demonstrated commitment to serving underrepresented and vulnerable populations, including social and racial/ethnic minorities as well as those living with mental illnesses and/or substance use disorders
• Willing to work in a diverse environment in regard to race, ethnicity, culture, sexual orientation, and gender
• Candidate will have firsthand knowledge/experience living with a mental health or substance use condition
• Strong interpersonal skills to interact positively with clients and members of the treatment team
• Demonstrated sensitivity and compassion
• Observational skills to interpret demeanor and spot signs of distress or crisis
• Active listening skills to engage in productive conversations and lead effective group sessions
• Organizational skills to maintain complete, accurate records
• Writing skills to produce clear, concise recovery reports
• Computer skills to utilize email, word processing and records-management software
• Basic understanding of best practices for substance use and mental health counseling

Qualifications & Requirements:?

• Candidates will possess a Certified Recovery Support Specialist (CRSS) or Certified Peer Recovery Specialist (CPRS) credential OR will obtain one of these credentials within 18 months of employment at NAMI Chicago.
• Bilingual in Spanish and English is a plus.
• Ability to travel throughout the Greater Chicago area.
• Computer Skills: Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, and Word. Proficiency in Internet Explorer, Outlook/Exchange; Windows operating systems; and other software routinely used by NAMI Chicago.
• Valid Illinois driver’s license with daily access to vehicle. Must have $100,000/$300,000 auto liability insurance

Welcomed Qualifications

• Experience with the CCMTP

Available Benefits:

• Company sponsored wellness activities.
• Medical, Dental, and Vision benefits.
• Company sponsored Life and AD&D Insurance and Long-Term Disability.
• 401k Retirement plan.
• Critical Illness Insurance, Hospital Indemnity, Accident Insurance, Short Term Disability Coverage.
• Generous PTO.

Base Rate: $23/hour

NAMI Chicago is an inclusive employer, we welcome and encourage BIPOC, LGBTQ+, Veterans, Differently Abled, Returning Citizens and All Who Are Dedicated to Mental Health to Apply.