ADDICTION RECOVERY ASSISTANT

Addiction Recovery Assistant (ARA) | Behavioral Health | Addiction Recovery

The Behavioral Wellness Center at Girard is seeking dependable, compassionate, and motivated Addiction Recovery Assistants (ARA) to join our Behavioral Health team in Philadelphia. The Addiction Recovery Assistant provides direct care, supervision, and recovery support to individuals receiving treatment for substance use disorders, addiction, and co-occurring mental health conditions within a structured residential recovery environment. This position plays an important role in maintaining a safe, supportive, and therapeutic environment while assisting clients with daily activities, recovery programming, behavioral support, and overall treatment engagement.

This position offers an excellent opportunity for current college students, recent graduates, and individuals interested in establishing or advancing a career in behavioral health, addiction treatment, mental health, and human services. Candidates pursuing or holding degrees in Psychology, Social Work, Counseling, Nursing, Behavioral Health, Addiction Studies, Human Services, or related fields are encouraged to apply. We also strongly encourage individuals holding an active Certified Recovery Specialist (CRS) or Certified Peer Specialist (CPS) certification to apply. Previous professional experience in behavioral health or addiction treatment is preferred but not required.

Part-Time and Per Diem (Flex) opportunities are available. Part-time positions follow a 16-hour-per-week schedule with a Monday and Wednesday rotation and every other weekend required. Per Diem (Flex) employees provide coverage based on departmental staffing needs. Additional shifts and hours may be available depending on operational requirements.

All new hires must complete a mandatory 5-day orientation, Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, before beginning their regular work schedule. Attendance for all five days is required.

Key Responsibilities

Provide direct care, daily engagement, and recovery support to clients receiving residential addiction treatment services

Maintain a safe, structured, supportive, and recovery-oriented therapeutic environment

Observe, document, and report client behaviors, activities, and changes in condition using paper and electronic documentation systems

Complete vital signs, blood glucose monitoring (Accu-Cheks), and other assigned clinical support tasks within the scope of the position

Conduct admission searches, room checks, and personal belongings inventories in accordance with facility procedures

Monitor urine specimen collections and inspect packages and personal items brought onto the unit

Participate in and assist with recovery groups, structured activities, and community engagement programming

Support clients in maintaining daily routines, treatment participation, and recovery-focused behaviors

Escort clients to medical, legal, recreational, and other approved appointments

Assist with meal service and maintaining appropriate unit structure and order

Provide accurate shift reports and maintain required communication logs

Utilize appropriate redirection, verbal de-escalation, and crisis prevention techniques when assisting clients

Work collaboratively with nursing staff, counselors, recovery specialists, and other behavioral health professionals

Maintain cleanliness, safety, and organization throughout the residential treatment environment

Follow facility policies regarding confidentiality, infection control, client safety, and professional boundaries

Attend required departmental meetings, training sessions, and other assigned activities

Perform additional duties as assigned

Qualifications

Education & Experience

High School Diploma or GED required

Current college students and recent graduates are encouraged to apply

College coursework or a degree in Psychology, Social Work, Counseling, Nursing, Behavioral Health, Addiction Studies, Human Services, or a related field preferred

Twelve college credits in Behavioral Health, Human Services, or a related field preferred

Previous professional experience in addiction treatment, substance use recovery, behavioral health, mental health, residential treatment, peer support, or human services preferred but not required

Knowledge or understanding of addiction and recovery gained through education, professional experience, personal lived experience, or supporting individuals affected by substance use disorders is valued

Active Certified Recovery Specialist (CRS) or Certified Peer Specialist (CPS) certification strongly encouraged but not required

Working knowledge of 12-Step Recovery Programs preferred

Experience obtaining vital signs or providing direct client care is a plus

First Aid and CPR certification required within 30 days of hire

Bilingual English and Spanish capabilities preferred for select positions

Work Environment

This is a fully onsite position within a residential behavioral health and addiction recovery treatment setting. Addiction Recovery Assistants work directly with individuals receiving treatment for substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health conditions. The position requires frequent standing, walking, bending, lifting, and direct client interaction. Employees may encounter individuals experiencing agitation, emotional distress, or behavioral challenges and must be able to respond appropriately while maintaining a safe therapeutic environment. Outdoor escorts and occasional travel may be required. Knowledge of infection control, workplace safety, and de-escalation practices is important.

Pre-Employment and Workplace Policy

Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of all pre-employment requirements, including a physical examination, background check, verification of employment, and drug screening. The Behavioral Wellness Center at Girard is a Drug Free Workplace, and all employees are expected to comply with workplace policies and standards of conduct.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The Behavioral Wellness Center at Girard is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE M F D V). We are committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and respectful workplace. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply.