Substance Use Specialist (SUS)

Job Description

Job Description

Substance Use Specialist (SUS) - Dependency Drug Court Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Coordination (DDCSC)

Position Summary

Under the supervision of the program manager, the Substance Use Specialist (SUS) provides immediate screening, coordination and support for DDC and non-DDC participants. The SUS shall also serve as a representative for SUD treatment providers during DDC sessions and share the progress of participant with the court. This role requires patience and a spirit of honesty, humbleness, and self-awareness since day-to-day work requires working independently at different court sites. Substance Use Specialist is expected to make sound, independent decisions for the benefit of the clients and their families. The Substance Use Specialist Counselor works in a culturally sensitive manner and abides by the legal and ethical standards of the profession.

Required Qualifications

• Bilingual in English/Spanish strongly preferred. Bilingual pay available
• Registered in the state of California as a SUD Counselor, or ability to be registered within 30 days of hire and actively working towards certification.
• 1 year related experience or equivalent experience in substance abuse and/or counseling, co- occurring treatment highly desired.
• Demonstrated knowledge, training, and experience in Cognitive Behavioral Interventions, DBT, or Seeking Safety highly desired.

Responsibilities

• Conducts screenings and facilitate linkage to SUD treatment providers and services
• Maintain ongoing communication and coordination with providers, social workers, and court representatives
• Facilitates and arranges participant engagement to SUD treatment providers
• Collaborates with multi-disciplinary team to plan and develop monthly program activities, services.
• Accurately completes all progress notes following county guidelines and documentation standards, as well as entering them into mHOMS electronic health record system.
• Attend all Dependancy Drug Court sessions
• Follow up on treatment issues raised in the DDC sessions
• Participates in staff and stakeholder meetings, and assigned training
• Utilizes a trauma informed, client-centered, culturally respectful approach and abides by the legal an ethical standards of the profession.
• Completes other duties as assigned.

Schedule/Compensation

• Full-Time, Non-exempt position
• 40 hours/week. Monday-Friday (may include evening and occasional weekend hours).
• Salary commensurate with experience and education. Differential pay offered for bilingual skills. EEO.
• SUD Counselor 1 REGISTERED Rage $28.00-$30.60.
• SUD Counselor 2 CERTIFIED Range $30.50 -$33.30

Additional Requirement

• Must have a valid driver's license and reliable transportation with a good driving record.
• Willing to use own, properly insured, reliable vehicle for the job (mileage reimbursed).
• Employment subject to clearances, including background fingerprinting checks, driving record, tuberculosis testing, and drug testing

As part of our commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of our clients and maintaining the integrity of our workplace, North County Lifeline conducts comprehensive background and drug screening processes for all prospective employees. This includes, but is not limited to:

• Driving Record Check: Verification through the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to ensure a good standing driving record.
• Employment Verification: Confirmation of your employment history to verify your experiences and qualifications.
• Reference Checks: Contacting provided references to gain insights into your work ethic, professionalism, and suitability for the role.
• Tuberculosis (TB) Screening: A TB test to ensure the health and safety of our clients and staff, in line with public health recommendations.
• Drug Screening: A 10-panel non-DOT drug test to screen for the presence of common illicit substances, ensuring a drug-free workplace.
• Criminal Background Checks: Comprehensive checks through the Department of Justice (DOJ), FBI, and Child Abuse Index to identify any history that may impact your suitability for employment, particularly in roles involving vulnerable populations.

These screenings are a vital part of our hiring process and must be successfully completed for employment eligibility. North County Lifeline is dedicated to fair and responsible hiring practices and ensures that all screenings are conducted in accordance with applicable laws and regulations, respecting the privacy and rights of all candidates. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in this process, aimed at creating a safe and productive work environment for everyone.