Peer Specialist

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Position Summary

PULSE – Peer Understanding, Leadership, Support, by Empowerment.

The PULSE Program, led by Youth MOVE PA (YMPA), embodies the foundational principles of youth peer support—empathy, leadership, guidance, and empowerment. Rooted in a recovery-oriented framework, the program promotes wellness and resiliency among youth and young adults through the efforts of certified peer professionals. The PULSE Peer Specialist will play a critical role in cultivating resilience, meaningful connection, and personal empowerment among youth engaged with Luzerne County Children and Youth Services (CYS). Leveraging lived experience and trauma-informed practices, the peer specialist will offer personalized support, advocacy, and mentorship to youth navigating complex systems and transitional life stages. This position requires close collaboration with Luzerne County CYS, including participation in regular meetings, provision of feedback, and technical assistance throughout program implementation. The peer specialist will serve as a knowledgeable resource and active contributor to the development of trauma-informed, youth-centered service strategies. As part of the YMPA team, the Peer Specialist will build authentic peer relationships with youth involved in CYS services. Through regular appointments, they will support youth in identifying and pursuing collaborative goals designed to promote growth, autonomy, and overall well-being. The PULSE Peer Specialist will report directly to the Program Director at Youth MOVE PA.

Key Responsibilities

• Offer peer mentoring and emotional support to youth ages 14–18
• Co-create Wellness Recovery Action Plans (WRAP), Recovery Roadmaps, and personalized goals
• Assist with transitions to independence, including housing, education, and employment
• Promote self-advocacy and help youth understand rights within child welfare and justice systems
• Collaborate with caseworkers, IL coordinators, probation officers, and behavioral health providers
• Bridge communication between youth and system professionals, amplifying youth voice
• Advocate for trauma-informed and culturally responsive service delivery
• Maintain accurate documentation and uphold confidentiality following county/state guidelines
• Other duties assigned as the job responsibilities are reviewed and modified.

Required Qualifications

• Location: Must live locally in Luzerne-Wyoming Counties, PA or nearby to connect authentically with youth in the region
• Certification: PA Certified Peer Specialist and/or Certified Recovery Specialist/Certified Family Recovery credential in good standing with the Pennsylvania Certification Board (PCB)
• Lived Experience: Personal experience with child welfare, juvenile justice, behavioral health, or system involvement
• Education: High School Diploma or GED
• Transportation: Valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and car insurance
• Skills: Strong writing, speaking, editing, communication, organization, and boundary setting are essential.
• Technology: Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excel, Outlook, and Teams
• Clearances: PA State Police, FBI, and Child Abuse clearances

Preferred

· 1–3 years of demonstrated experience delivering peer support services

• Experience with IL programs, youth advisory councils, or peer-led initiatives
• Background in facilitating workshops or support groups
• Familiarity with restorative practices, trauma-informed care, and youth development

Salary and Benefits

• Competitive salary based on experience
• Benefits package including dental for FT only, PTO, Sick Time, and professional development

Pay

• $39,500 – $42,500 per year. This role is designated as Full-Time.

Pay: $39,000.00 - $42,250.00 per year

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Life insurance
• Mileage reimbursement
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Luzerne County, PA