Salary: starting at $42,000 annually
Job Description: Peer Support Specialist I
Location: Community-based (local travel required)
Reports to: Associate Director of Peer Support Services
Status: Exempt | Grant-funded position
About the Role
PreventEd is seeking a compassionate and motivated Peer Support Specialist I to join our Behavioral Health team. This role is grant-funded and focused on supporting prevention, treatment, and recovery from opioid use and other substance use disorders through peer support services.
Peer Support Specialists use lived experience to support, encourage, and model recovery and resilience. This position works closely with individuals in the community to build connections, promote recovery tools, and strengthen personal and community supports.
Key Responsibilities
Provide peer support services as part of a multidisciplinary team
Share lived recovery experiences to inspire and support individuals
Assist individuals in identifying strengths and personal recovery resources
Support connections to peers, community resources, and services
Maintain an active caseload of 5–10 clients (or as determined with supervisor)
Provide training and education to community members on peer services and resources
Complete required documentation in compliance with agency, contractual, and funding requirements
Participate in program planning and coordination
Perform other related duties as assigned
Location: St Louis, Missouri
Website: https://www.prevented.org
Requirements: Qualifications & Personal Attributes
At least one year in stable recovery
Current or former participant in a substance use treatment program
High degree of maturity and emotional stability
Strong interpersonal, communication, and relationship-building skills
Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team
Strong organization, follow-through, and attention to detail
Flexibility to work evenings and weekends as needed
Commitment to personal and professional growth
Education & Certification
High School Diploma required; Bachelor’s degree in a related field preferred (education, psychology, social work, human services, etc.)
Must obtain Certified Peer Specialist (CPS) Certification through the Missouri Credentialing Board within 6 months of hire
Prior experience or training in public speaking, social services, youth programs, or community outreach preferred
Additional Requirements
Valid driver’s license (Class E required but can be obtained within 1st month of employment) and reliable transportation
Ability to travel locally in the community
Basic computer skills (email, Microsoft Word, Excel, data entry)
Ability to lift up to 25 pounds and perform regular standing, walking, and stair climbing
Why Join PreventEd?
At PreventEd, you’ll be part of a mission-driven organization dedicated to prevention, treatment, and recovery. We value lived experience, teamwork, and community impact. This role offers a meaningful opportunity to support others while continuing your own professional growth.
We welcome candidates from all backgrounds and life experiences. Our team values different perspectives and believes that a wide range of voices makes us stronger and more effective in our work. If you’re passionate about what we do and believe you’d be a good fit, we encourage you to apply — even if your experience doesn’t match every listed qualification.
PreventEd was voted the Best Place to Work in St Louis for mid-sized business in 2025!!!
To Apply: Please Submit a resume and cover letter to: Staci Graves, Director of People Operations sgraves@prevented.org