Engagement Specialist (Cascadia Access, Information, and Referral)

Job Overview Engagement Specialist position with Cascadia Health focused on enrolling and engaging clients in physical and behavioral health treatment and providing up-to-date referrals within Cascadia and the community within a Trauma Informed Care environment. Location / Schedule This position is based at the Plaza Health Center located in SE Portland, OR. The schedule for this position is Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Position Engagement Specialist Program Cascadia Access, Information, and Referral (CAIR) Cascadia's Mission And Vision Mission: Cascadia Health delivers whole health care – integrated mental health and addiction services, primary care, and housing – to promote hope and support the well‑being of the communities we serve. Vision: We envision a community where everyone benefits from whole health care, experiences well‑being, and has a self‑directed, connected life. Position Description The Engagement Specialist works as a member of an interdisciplinary team to enroll and engage clients in treatment, provide referrals, and support a Trauma Informed Care environment. The role requires clinical and engagement skills, understanding of trauma effects, and the ability to work independently over the phone and in the community. The position promotes integrated care, trauma‑informed and person‑first approaches, and respects the diversity of the Cascadia community. Essential Responsibilities This position description is not intended to be an all‑inclusive list of responsibilities, skills, or working conditions associated with the position. Management reserves the right to modify, add or remove duties as necessary. Provide outreach and engagement services to individuals experiencing mental health challenges using strengths‑based case management, motivational interviewing, and harm reduction concepts. Document and maintain an electronic health record (EHR) and ancillary records in compliance with agency policies, program procedures, and local, state, and federal regulations. Conduct needs assessments with consumers and refer to appropriate programs within Cascadia. Work closely with community agencies to help consumers access services. Conduct skills training, care coordination, and case management individually and in groups. Provide supportive, empathetic customer service and help clients problem solve and access needed services. Respect and honor client rights and responsibilities while maintaining professional boundaries and ethics. Assist in crisis situations as appropriate, following emergency protocols and coordinating with the treatment team. Prevent escalation to avoid crisis situations and neutralize crises in progress. Ensure safety of consumers, program participants, staff, and property, and be familiar with fire regulations and evacuation procedures. Advocate for individuals served both within the organization and with other entities. Adhere to mandatory abuse‑reporting laws and HIPAA requirements. Provide input on documentation and procedural requirements. Complete annual employee training requirements and attend seminars, training, and other educational opportunities. Integrate best practices, including Trauma Informed Care and Motivational Interviewing, into day‑to‑day operations. Support team members and other managerial and/or volunteer staff. Participate in scheduled staff meetings, supervision sessions, and other departmental and agency meetings. Perform other duties as assigned. Regulatory & Compliance Comply with and implement regulations, policies, and procedures under which the program operates. Assist in crisis situations as appropriate, following emergency protocols and coordinating with the treatment team. Respect and honor client rights and responsibilities while maintaining professional boundaries and ethics. Document and maintain clinical records in compliance with agency policies, procedures, and regulations. Maintain accurate and up‑to‑date documentation required for assessment, treatment, and billing. Complete electronic medical records using Cascadia software. Ensure safety of those served. Understand fire regulations and evacuation procedures; participate in safety drills. Adhere to mandatory abuse‑reporting laws and HIPAA requirements. Complete annual employee training requirements as indicated by licensing requirements. Participate in scheduled staff meetings, supervision sessions, and agency meetings. Perform other duties as assigned. Qualifications Education Required: QMHA – a bachelor’s degree in a behavioral science field from an accredited college or university, or three years of full‑time professional experience working with adults with severe and persistent mental illness, or a combination of work and education. Must be able to maintain QMHA credentialing. Experience Preferred: Some work experience working with adults with severe and persistent mental health challenges. Specialized Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities Effective communication and active listening skills. Demonstrated interpersonal and customer service skills. Philosophy and values consistent with a patient‑centered care model. Ability to work proactively and effectively in a team as well as independently. Basic knowledge of Trauma Informed Care, Motivational Interviewing, and evidence‑based practices. Basic understanding of the recovery model, illness management, and strength‑based philosophies. Operate computer hardware and software at a level needed to effectively perform job functions. Other Possess a valid driver’s license, one‑year driving history, clean driving record, and ability to pass a DMV check and complete the Cascadia online Defensive Driving course, or be willing to travel to multiple locations throughout the Portland Metro area. Ability to perform CPR, First Aid, and effectively use AED equipment. CPR and First Aid certifications are required and must remain current. Working Conditions Environmental This role is centered on direct client and community engagement and is designed for in‑person work, without hybrid or remote options. Work is performed in administrative office, clinical office, acute care settings, and community settings including client residences, correctional facilities, shelters, hospitals, public places, and other social service sites. Meal periods and breaks may be interrupted. Universal Precautions and remaining alert to the environment are essential to address potential for aggressive behavior, disease exposure, biohazards, noise, and contaminants. Mental Demands The work involves addressing new and unusual circumstances and a degree of unpredictability, requiring flexible time management and sound judgment. Cascadia is an Equal Opportunity Employer. If you need assistance or accommodation due to a disability, contact us at View phone number on click.appcast.io. This position is represented by a labor union. Benefits Generous Paid Time Off. Full‑time employees earn 6 weeks of PTO in their first year. Medical and Dental Coverage (begins 1st of the month following hire date). VSP Vision Discount Plan. 403(b) Retirement Savings (Pre and post‑tax plans with up to 8% employer matching contribution). Flexible Spending Account (FSA) (medical, dependent care, and transportation options). Short‑Term Disability, Long‑Term Disability, and Life Insurance. Paid Bereavement and Jury Duty Leave. Length of Service Award. Voluntary Life Insurance. Supplemental Insurance. Student loan forgiveness options. Wellness Benefits Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Bike to Work Reimbursement. Discounted Fitness Memberships. Trauma Support Team. Starting Rate Range in USD $24.72 - $25.84 #J-18808-Ljbffr Cascadia Health