Certified Peer Support Specialist

Optum is a global organization that delivers care, aided by technology to help millions of people live healthier lives. The work you do with our team will directly improve health outcomes by connecting people with the care, pharmacy benefits, data, and resources they need to feel their best. Here, you will find a culture guided by diversity and inclusion, talented peers, comprehensive benefits, and career development opportunities.

Come make an impact on the communities we serve as you help us advance health equity on a global scale. Join us to start Caring. Connecting. Growing together.

The Certified Peer Support Specialist (CPSS) uses personal lived experience and recovery to support, engage, and empower individuals with mental health and/or substance use challenges. This role is a key connector between members, clinical teams, and providers-helping bridge communication, build trust, and promote recovery-oriented care.

CPSS professionals model hope, resilience, and self-determination, while providing education, support, and guidance rooted in trauma‑informed, evidence-based peer practices. This position also plays a vital role in facilitating training programs for members, providers, and community partners.

Schedule:

20 hours per week:
Tuesday & Thursday 8am-5pm, Wednesday 8am- 12pm

Location:

Onsite - 12921 S Vista Station Blvd, Draper, UT 84020

Primary Responsibilities:

Peer Engagement & Recovery Support

* Use lived experience and recovery principles to inspire hope, build rapport, and support members in identifying strengths and setting self-directed recovery goals

* Connect with members as appropriate, including during transitions such as hospital discharge or when additional support is needed

* Provide peer support at critical moments in the treatment process, ensuring members feel heard, respected, and empowered

* Assist members and families in navigating services, understanding their rights, and making informed decisions about their care

Clinical & Provider Collaboration

* Work closely with clinical teams and providers to help improve member engagement, communication, and care coordination using the recovery model

* Participate in treatment planning when requested by the team and or members

* Identify members who may benefit from peer support and work with multidisciplinary teams to facilitate appropriate referrals

* Serve as a liaison between Optum, members, and community partners

Training, Education & Facilitation

* Assist in developing and facilitating multiple training programs, including:

* Certified Peer Support Specialist (CPSS) training

* Enhancement and continuing education trainings

* Suicide prevention trainings

* Other peer- and recovery-related training initiatives

* Demonstrate strong ability to create professional, engaging presentations and training materials

Advocacy & Systems Navigation

* Help members connect to treatment providers, community resources, and natural supports

* Advocate for members' needs across healthcare, housing, employment, legal, and community systems

* Provide support with grievance or appeals processes when requested

* Communicate benefits and resource information to members, families, and community organizations

Documentation & Team Participation

* Maintain accurate, thorough, and timely documentation

* Participate in team meetings, supervision, and ongoing training and development

* Support internal initiatives, work groups, or committees as assigned

* May serve as a resource to peers and may coordinate activities of others as needed

Work Environment &

Physical Requirements

* Work may occur in clinical settings, community locations, or remotely

* Travel may be required to hospitals, provider offices, community events, or trainings

* Ability to sit, stand, and use a computer for extended periods is required

You'll be rewarded and recognized for your performance in an environment that will challenge you and give you clear directions on what it takes to succeed in your role as well as provide development for other roles you may be interested in.

Required Qualifications:

* Active state-recognized Certified Peer Support Specialist certification

* 2+ years of Prior Authorization…