Harm Reduction Specialist

Job Description

Job Description

Community Access was founded in 1974 to provide housing and support for people being discharged from psychiatric institutions. Today, we are one of the leading providers of supportive and affordable housing in New York City, and the originators of an integrated housing model which has become a best practice nationally: affordable housing where families live alongside people living with mental health concerns. Our staff work daily to support thousands of New Yorkers through supportive and affordable housing, peer-driven residential crisis support programs, training, advocacy, supported education, mobile treatment and other healing-focused services. 

Program/Department Description

The Housing department provides permanent and affordable supportive housing for individuals living with mental health concerns and low-income community residents and families, as well as licensed transitional residential programs for individuals moving from institutions into the community.  Services are geared towards assisting people in maintaining their housing and moving forward with their lives in stable community-based environments.   

Position Overview

The Harm Reduction Specialist provides engagement and support services, particularly to residents engaging in risky behaviors such as drug and alcohol use, unsafe sexual practices, and self-harm, using a harm reduction model.  The emphasis is on meeting individuals “where they are at” and providing non-judgmental, non-coercive services and resources to individuals engaging in risky behaviors.  Harm Reduction Specialists are responsible for providing individual support as well as group activities and workshops. In addition, the Harm Reduction Specialist provides consultation, training, and support to program staff in their work with residents engaging in risky behaviors.  The intention is that the Harm Reduction Specialist will be a leader in promoting Community Access’ commitment to providing services using a harm reduction model. They will also actively participate in the agency-wide Harm Reduction Committee and its projects.  

Key Performance Indicators

All key performance indicators below are expected to be met fully. 

• Facilitate a minimum of four harm reduction focused groups per month at all assigned locations.  
• Ensure that all services, follow- up and documentation are completed on time including: 

1. All assessments and service plans for the program are completed on time. 
2. Complete at least two service plan linked notes for all tenants on assigned caseload (8 in licensed housing), entered within 48 hours of the meetings. 
3. Ensure monthly in-apartment visits for all tenants on assigned caseload (weekly in the Community Residences).  

• Consistently document 40 hours of direct service work each month. 
• Provide program leadership for harm reduction activities including: 

1. Train all new staff on Narcan use within one week of onboarding 
2. Maintain the on-site Harm Reduction Toolbox (accurate sign in sheets, maintaining supply of safe use kits, proper ordering of new kits) 
3. On time submission of Narcan Reports 

• Actively participate in agency Harm Reduction Committee meetings and related special projects/initiatives.

Job Qualifications

• Have an understanding, appreciation, and commitment to the philosophy and mission of Community Access, with particular expertise in harm reduction and recovery-oriented services.  
• Ability to train and support program participants and staff on the implementation of harm reduction approaches. 
• Minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent (GED) required; bachelor’s degree in related field preferred – work experience within field may be substituted for degree. 
• Minimum of three years working with people who have a history of homelessness, substance use, and/or mental health diagnosis, required. 
• Ability to prioritize and meet deadlines. 
• Excellent oral and written communication skills. 
• Be creative and flexible. 
• Ability to utilize various computer programs, specifically Microsoft Word and Excel. 
• Show initiative and be responsible for follow through. 
• Ability to maintain confidential information, as related to position. 
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team. 
• Be skilled in conflict mediation/negotiation and have an assertive approach to problem solving. 
• Must be fingerprinted and cleared through a background clearance process. 
• Bilingual Spanish-speaking, preferred. Ability to speak other relevant languages, dependent on specific needs of program participants.  

Bilingual candidates are encouraged to apply.

Interested candidates should apply on

Community Access is an Equal Opportunity Employer. M/F/D/V.

Women, People of Color and Members of the LGBT community are strongly encouraged to apply.

We are dedicated to a workforce where at least 51% of our employees identify as 

having a personal experience using mental health services.