Applications are submitted online until the position is filled and/or the posting is closed. After reviewing this job announcement, please click on the link at the bottom of the page to apply online. A resume is required with the application. Further instructions on submission of documents are available in the online application. A resume may not be substituted for an application.

Project Rehabilitate is a holistic defense outreach project that addresses outstanding legal issues for people in inpatient substance use treatment centers that could, without intervention, lead to incarceration. The Project aims to find novel solutions to break the cycle of interaction with the criminal legal system for people with substance use disorder (SUD), address gaps in the criminal legal system, and create new pathways for indigent people with criminal legal issues. The Project’s advocacy focuses on communicating extraordinary relief requests to the court, clearing warrants, advocating for people at traffic & non-traffic hearings, and connecting people to more intensive Public Defender services and community resources both inside and outside of Allegheny County.

 The Peer Recovery Specialist will provide peer recovery services while advocating for people with substance use disorder in the criminal legal system. Peer Recovery Specialist will interface with all Project stakeholders to ensure timely, impactful interventions are made for all patients served through the Project.

• Works closely with people with substance use disorder, inpatient and outpatient treatment facility staff, Public Defender staff, Court staff, Allegheny County Jail staff, and other key stakeholders to address outstanding legal issues for patients served through Project Rehabilitate.
• Meets one-on-one with people in SUD treatment and the Jail to conduct intake, find outstanding cases, and gather all necessary documents demonstrating treatment status.
• Conducts consistent, effective follow up for patients, counselors, attorneys, etc. through written reports and verbal communication.
• Documents services provided to individuals, compile monthly reports to reflect progress, and present data to Project staff and OPD Management.
• Assists individuals with developing their self-help skills and cultivate their ability to make informed, independent choices.
• Informs, empowers, guides, and educates patients, clients, and facility staff to strengthen their own advocacy skills.
• Assists Project staff and Public Defender staff in outreach and education to inform patients, clients, and fellow stakeholders about their legal rights and responsibilities; supports individuals with their reintegration into the community. 

• Peer recovery philosophies and practices (Twelve Step, Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, etc.).
• Community resources for people with substance use disorder.
• Racial equity and inclusion principles.

• Microsoft Office Suite
• Case Management Software

• Understand the historical context for racial inequity and its present-day implications, especially in the criminal legal system.
• Communicate compassionately when handling sensitive and difficult conversations.
• Work independently and meet deadlines.
• Multi-task and utilize good time management.
• Maintain positive working relationships with all clients, co-workers, judges, court personnel, opposing counsel, law enforcement officers, witnesses, and the general public.