Community Support Specialist (54911)

Lutheran Social Services of WI & Upper MI

Location: Wisconsin (community‑based role with local travel)

Hours: Part‑time, ~20 hours/week (potential to grow to full‑time)

LSS is seeking a Certified Peer Specialist to join our mission‑driven team! If you're passionate about advocacy, recovery, and empowering others, this role offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact every day.

As a Peer Specialist, you'll provide advocacy, referrals, crisis intervention, and problem‑solving support for individuals experiencing mental health challenges and/or substance use disorders. You'll use your training and lived experience to walk alongside clients on their recovery journey.

This position supports our Forensic Team , serving individuals in the Opening Avenues to Re‑Entry Success (OARS) and Conditional Release programs. Using a collaborative, team‑based approach, we partner with community organizations to help participants build stability and the skills needed to thrive in the community.

This is a part‑time role (~20 hours/week) with the potential to grow into full‑time.

(Required for all employees providing direct services)

• Promote client independence and growth in alignment with service plans.

• Provide services using a trauma‑informed , person‑centered approach.

• Utilize evidence‑based practices approved by the agency and funders.

• Complete time reporting accurately and consistently.

(Not all‑inclusive; duties may evolve as needed)

• Teach coping and wellness strategies related to mental illness and substance use recovery.

• Model healthy behaviors and offer hope by appropriately sharing personal recovery experiences.

• Facilitate mentoring and group sessions focused on mental health topics.

• Assist members with daily life problem‑solving .

• Support clients in navigating county and city systems to build independence and financial/social responsibility.

• Collaborate with staff to provide basic case management , including housing and employment support.

• Mentor Peer Specialists‑in‑Training , as applicable.

• Maintain respectful, professional interactions with all stakeholders.

• Meet established productivity expectations for the role and program.

• Mileage reimbursement

• 403B contribution option

• Annual raises prioritized

• Employee Assistance Program

• Service awards & recognition

• Knowledge of mental illness through education, training, work, volunteerism, or lived experience .

• High school diploma or GED required.

• Understanding of crisis intervention , trauma‑informed care , and recovery philosophy .

• Familiarity with local social services .

• Strong problem‑solving , empathy , and relationship‑building skills.

• Ability to communicate effectively with team members and external partners (e.g., county staff, landlords, employers).

• Must be Wisconsin Certified as a Peer Specialist .

• Day‑to‑day travel required , subject to client and program needs.

Lutheran Social Services of Wisconsin & Upper Michigan is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE).