CDOC (SOCIAL WORK/COUNSELOR III) - Substance Use Disorder Assessor - (DENVER)

Overview Colorado Department of Corrections (CDOC) is seeking a Substance Use Disorder Counselor to provide comprehensive assessments, clinical interventions, and crisis management for justice‑involved individuals. The role involves applying ASAM criteria, collaborating with medical staff for medication‑assisted treatment, and consulting unit staff on diagnosis and treatment planning. Location Denver, CO – Denver Complex Description of the Job Provides comprehensive Substance Use Disorder (SUD) assessments for offenders and delivers behavioral health services in accordance with state and federal guidelines. Responsibilities Provides substance‑use treatment services, including assessments, clinical interventions, and crisis management. Enter and update diagnostics based on assessment findings. Collaborates with medical staff regarding Medication‑Assisted Treatment (MAT) behavioral services. Serves as consultant for unit staff regarding assessment, diagnosis, and treatment planning. Provides clinical direction to non‑clinical staff in behavioral health care and treatment of offenders. Assures continuity of care for offenders by making appropriate referrals and providing necessary information and documentation for receiving units, facilities, or agencies. Provides crisis intervention in accordance with clinical standards and mental‑health professional privilege level. Informs offenders regarding substance use treatment. Communicates regarding complaints, problems, transfers, classifications, and offender behavioral management issues related to substance use treatment. Monitors inmate treatment and documentation to assure compliance with standards, ensures continuity of care, and completes assigned tasks in compliance with overtime exempt status. Minimum Qualifications Licensed Addiction Counselor (LAC), Licensed Clinical Social Worker (CSW), Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Psychologist, or Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) credential issued by the Colorado State Board of Addiction Counselor Examiners or other relevant licensing body. One year of licensed or license‑candidate experience in substance use and/or mental health settings. Preferred Qualifications Current, valid Licensed Addiction Counselor (LAC) credential issued by the Colorado State Board of Addiction Counselor Examiners. Current, valid Certified Addiction Specialist (CAS) credential issued by the State of Colorado. Experience providing mental health treatment and discharge planning with severely mentally ill and developmentally disabled populations. Experience providing Substance Use Disorder treatment to justice‑involved populations. Experience conducting suicide risk assessments. Experience working as a member of a multidisciplinary team. Required Competencies Self‑control and strong ability to work in stressful, potentially violent situations. Ability to remain alert, emotionally stable, and mentally resilient under pressure and observant throughout the shift. Tolerance to stress, confinement, and high‑stakes interaction. Knowledge of Substance Use Disorder treatment standards and guidelines. Knowledge of Mental Health standards and guidelines. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Ability to read, comprehend and communicate effectively in English. Ability to create accessible documents and technical content following plain‑language guidelines. Ability to provide direct patient care to inmates. Must maintain required licensure. Conditions of Employment Must be at least 21 years of age. Must possess a valid, non‑restricted Colorado driver’s license. Must have a high school diploma or GED. Must have no felony convictions and be legally eligible to work in the United States. Must successfully pass all modules of the six‑week CDOC Basic Training, including Defensive Tactics and written/practical exams. Must be physically able to complete Defensive Tactics requirements (e.g., lifts, strikes, takedowns). Must comply with required background investigation and drug‑testing requirements. Benefits Distinctive career advancement opportunities throughout the state system. Retirement benefits including PERA Defined Benefit Plan or PERA Defined Contribution Plan, plus a 401(k) and 457 plans. Medical, dental, vision, and long‑term disability coverage. Paid life insurance and short‑term disability. 11 paid holidays per year plus vacation and sick leave. Wellness program, tuition reimbursement, and training opportunities. Equal Employment Opportunity The State of Colorado is an equal‑opportunity employer committed to building inclusive, innovative work environments and encourages candidates from all backgrounds to apply. All employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected status in accordance with applicable law. #J-18808-Ljbffr Colorado Department of Corrections