Peer Support Training Specialist, School of Social Work

Provider Assistance Training Hub (PATH)

School of Social Work

University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign

Located Statewide in Illinois

Job Summary

Supports Illinois'
commitment to strengthening the behavioral health workforce by training and
guiding Peer Support Workers, individuals with lived experience navigating
mental health and/or substance use challenges. Housed within the Provider
Assistance and Training Hub (PATH), this role collaborates with the PATH
leadership and training teams to deliver training, provide on-going coaching,
and support the implementation of statewide peer support curriculum and
initiatives for Medicaid enrolled providers. As a subject matter expert,
ensures alignment with the peer support model and offers leadership and
oversight to help peer support workers grow in their roles and effectively
serve their communities.

Plan and deliver both
web-based training, including questions and answers, and on-site trainings
statewide for:
* Systems of Care and Peer Support Worker
Training.
* Associated monthly booster training for
Peer Supporters.

Using various training,
coaching and transfer of learning methodologies, the trainer will engage in
person and by webinar with Care Coordination Service Organization to:
* Effectively and strategically shares
personal stories around systems navigation.
* Assess agency-specific challenges and
build strategies for effective implementation of Peer Support staff within
the providing organizations.
* Work in conjunction with the Systems of
Care Coordinator and Coordinator of Family and Peer Support Services team to
ensure providers are integrating values and principles of peer support work.

Develop training, including
on-site training and web-based training on intermediate and advanced topics related to Peer Support.
* Provide feedback to
Systems of Care Coordinator, Coordinator of Family and Peer Support Services
and Workforce Development Team as Subject Matter Expert on Peer Support
implementation efforts to guide future curriculum development and statewide
support strategies.

Other Duties as Assigned
* Some analysis of training
effectiveness may be required.
* Travel may be necessary
several days per week in order to effectuate training and coaching.

Work Schedule, Travel, or Other

Periodic statewide travel required.

Bachelor's degree. Complete the required certification within 120 days. Self-identification as a person with lived experience in mental health, behavioral health, and/or substance use challenges and recovery. Demonstrated stability in personal recovery and the ability to use lived experience appropriately in a professional setting.
Experience successfully navigating two or more behavioral health services, including but not limited to: psychological testing and evaluation, medication evaluation, prescription, and management, mental health rehabilitation, inpatient and outpatient treatment, residential rehabilitation and/or behavioral health crisis services. Experience with coaching, training, teaching and/or public speaking.

Prior experience in a peer support role within recovery, mental health, or substance use setting. Past participation in support groups and/or advisory committees. Basic understanding of group facilitation techniques.

Knowledge of pertinent community based and clinical resources, including funding option and how to access them. Fundamental knowledge of mental health and substance use disorders, treatments, and recovery-oriented supports. Knowledge of trauma-informed care principles and the impact of trauma on individuals and families. Understanding of peer support values, including ethics, boundaries, and the role of lived experience in recovery support. Knowledge of strength-based, person-centered, and recovery-oriented practices. Knowledge of individual and systems-level advocacy approaches; ability to locate information on service rights, state and federal laws and behavioral health policies. Basic knowledge of conflict resolution and de-escalation strategies. Knowledge of collaborative care planning approaches across service systems. Understanding of transition services, resources, and timelines relevant to recovery. Knowledge of advocacy and strength-based interventions. Proficient in Microsoft Office. Excellent communication skills. Strong interpersonal skills. Highly organized. Able to work independently.

This is a 100% full-time Academic Professional position, appointed on a 12-month basis. The expected start date is as soon as possible after the search posting closes. Hybrid or remote work options may be available for this position, with the ability to be on-site as needed per the University's Workplace Flexibility policy. This position is not eligible for any type of sponsorship for work authorization. The budgeted salary range for this position is $55,000-$65,000. Salary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience, while also considering internal equity.

This is a multi-hire search. Interviews and hires may occur before the close date; however, all applications received by the close date will receive full consideration

Applications must be received by 6:00 pm (Central Time) on August 20, 2026. Apply for this position using the Apply Now button at the top or bottom of this posting. Applications not submitted through https://jobs.illinois.edu will not be considered. For further information about this specific position, please contact SW-HR@illinois.edu. For questions regarding the application process, please contact 217-333-2137.

At the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign - the state's flagship public university and one of the world's leading research institutions - every staff member helps shape what's next. Founded in 1867, Illinois is home to a vibrant community of 59,000 students from all 50 states and 129 countries, supported by 15 colleges and instructional units, more than 20 research institutes, and one of the most comprehensive student service ecosystems in the nation. Whether you're empowering first-generation students, fueling breakthrough innovation, or strengthening communities across Illinois and beyond, your work here has a far-reaching and deeply meaningful impact. The university offers a highly competitive benefits package designed to support your well-being, growth, and financial security. Join a top 10 public university that has launched over 330 startups and continues to redefine excellence - where the Illinois Value Proposition ensures that your contributions are recognized, your potential is nurtured, and your career can thrive.

Champaign-Urbana

Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used in some portions of the candidate review process for this position; however, all employment decisions will be made by a person.

This position is intended to be eligible for benefits. This includes Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, a Retirement Plan, Paid time Off, and Tuition waivers for employees and dependents.

The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates. Please visit Required Employment Notices and Posters to view our non-discrimination statement and find additional information about required background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, and employment eligibility review through E-Verify.

Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply and may request a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (2008) to complete the application and/or interview process. Accommodations may also be requested on the basis of pregnancy, childbirth, and related conditions, or religion. Requests may be submitted through the reasonable accommodation portal, or by contacting the Office for Access & Equity at 217-333-0885, option #1, or accessibility@illinois.edu.

Requisition ID: 1037596

Job Category: Professional and Administrative

Apply at: https://jobs.illinois.edu