Clinical Assistant

Clinical Assistant

Since 1976, Janus of Santa Cruz has been a leader in substance use disorder treatment, providing a range of services and a community of support to help individuals overcome substance use disorders. Our mission is to create meaningful change through compassionate care and innovative programs.

We are seeking a compassionate, detail-oriented Clinical Assistant to support our Medical Services and Admissions teams in delivering high-quality, client-centered care across multiple treatment programs.

This role is ideal for a Medical Assistant, LVN, or healthcare professional who is passionate about helping individuals on their recovery journey and thrives in a collaborative healthcare environment.

Position Summary

Under the supervision of the Medical Services Director, the Clinical Assistant supports the admissions process, coordinates medical care activities, assists with regulatory compliance, and helps ensure high-quality care for patients across Janus programs. The Clinical Assistant works closely with the Medical Services Director, Advanced Practitioners, Admissions staff, and treatment teams to support clients from admission through ongoing treatment services.

What You'll Do

Medical & Administrative Support

• Conduct and document client vital signs during admissions and as needed.
• Assist clients with medical screenings and health questionnaires.
• Communicate client medical histories and health concerns to Advanced Practitioners.
• Order and coordinate withdrawal management and other prescribed medications.
• Monitor clients for changes in physical or mental condition and escalate concerns appropriately.
• Follow up on medical needs identified by providers.
• Collect and organize medical records from healthcare providers and hospitals.
• Scan and maintain medical documentation in electronic health records (EHR).
• Screen and test clients for tuberculosis (TB) and provide referrals when appropriate.
• Facilitate overdose prevention education and distribute naloxone kits when assigned.
• Coordinate care among Janus programs and external healthcare providers.

Case Management Support

• Monitor client progress and ongoing service needs.
• Advocate for clients and help remove barriers to treatment.
• Support transitions between levels of care.
• Ensure timely and accurate documentation in AVATAR and other required systems.

Program & Team Responsibilities

• Identify and communicate urgent situations and client safety concerns.
• Participate actively in supervision, staff meetings, and trainings.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary treatment teams to provide quality care.
• Support program operations as assigned by management.
• Maintain compliance with applicable regulatory and licensing standards.

Requirements

Required

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Medical Assistant certification or relevant healthcare experience; LVN strongly preferred.
• Ability to pass a background check and TB screening.
• Strong communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency with computers and electronic health record systems.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and manage sensitive information.

Preferred

• One or more years of experience in medical, behavioral health, addiction treatment, or community healthcare settings.
• Knowledge of substance use disorders and medications commonly used in treatment and withdrawal management.
• Experience working with diverse and underserved populations.
• Familiarity with AVATAR or other behavioral health electronic health records.

Training & Certifications

Employees must obtain and maintain:

• CPR Certification
• First Aid Certification
• Infection Control Training
• Sexual Harassment Prevention Training

What We're Looking For

The successful candidate will:

• Demonstrate compassion, professionalism, and cultural humility.
• Thrive in a fast-paced healthcare environment.
• Communicate clearly and effectively with clients, families, and healthcare professionals.
• Exercise sound judgment and problem-solving skills.
• Work collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary treatment team.
• Be committed to supporting recovery, wellness, and client dignity.

Physical & Mental Requirements

• Ability to perform essential job functions with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Ability to sit, stand, walk, and perform routine clinical and administrative tasks.
• Ability to work effectively in a high-stress healthcare environment.
• Ability to operate a computer and complete accurate documentation.
• Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.

At Janus of Santa Cruz, the well-being of our employees is paramount to our planning and policies.

• We provide unlimited counseling (telehealth and in-person) at zero cost to our employees.
• We also provide competitive retirement plans for full-time, part-time, and on call employes with generous matching after six months of consecutive employment.
• Amazing Benefits: Enjoy comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, 12 paid holidays, retirement benefits, no-cost mental health counseling services, and 12 paid sick days per year.
• Impactful Work: Be at the forefront of transforming lives and communities.
• Collaborative Environment: Work with a dedicated team of professionals committed to holistic care and rehabilitation.
• Professional Growth: Seize opportunities to attend, participate, and speak at local and state-level meetings, events, conferences, and training.
• Supportive Culture: Thrive in a workplace that values your contributions and supports your professional development.

Janus of Santa Cruz maintains and promotes a working environment free from discrimination and harassment; and provides all current and prospective employees with equal opportunity in employment regardless of race, creed, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, disability, medical condition, sex, gender identity, physical characteristics, marital status, age, sexual orientation, organizational affiliation, veteran status, or past justice related situations.