Overview

Job Type
Full-time
Description
We require all employees to provide proof of COVID-19 immunization and booster (unless approval of exemption is granted)

 SUMMARY

The Substance Use Recovery Specialist will develop and implement the substance use recovery program for dually diagnosed adults living in ACOF’s various apartments. This position will coordinate services, practicing harm reduction and housing first principles, including leading on-site support and recovery groups and 12 Step meetings or coordinating these groups through service sub-contractors; consulting with supportive services and property management staff regarding tenants’ progress and participation; making referrals to addiction counselors and clinicians as appropriate; conducting and/or arranging for provision of related substance use training; providing crisis support as needed; and developing and maintaining a resource file/manual on services and resources available in Los Angeles County. The Specialist will also continue to establish relationships with clinics, substance use recovery programs, treatment centers and clinicians; attend community association and coalition meetings; and refine specific intervention strategies and programming, as needed. This position requires a comprehensive understanding of substance use issues that may arise for individuals with a mental health diagnosis.

DUTIES and RESPONSIBILTIIES

Assesses tenant’s mental health, substance use and independent living needs by collecting a pre-assessment survey from tenants who are referred by case managers.
Supports the establishment of tenant driven recovery activities and groups within the building using the Harm Reduction model and having a comprehensive understanding of Housing First.
Assists tenants in linking with resources in the community, primarily recovery services and activities aimed at increasing the resident’s knowledge of community resources and ability to use those resources.
Maintains a service provider referral network for residents that entails identifying and establishing effective relationships with agencies that provide recovery and treatment services.
Prepares and submits reports as required by funding agencies to document outcomes and effectiveness of services.
Maintains individual tenant files in an organized and professional manner, updates case notes.
Provides crisis response and management, as necessary.
Participates with case management and property management staff in case consultation and recovery options for residents.
Excellent verbal and written skills.
Ability to work as a team and support other Substance Use Recovery Specialists when needed.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY 

This position has no formal supervisory responsibility at this time. However he/she may be required to provide leadership to others in the implementation of office management systems and emergency response systems.

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY 

In the course, of performing this position, the Substance Use Recovery Specialist typically spends time sitting, (30%) standing (30%), walking (15%), stair climbing (25%), listening, speaking, writing, reading and operating a personal computer and automobile. The Substance Use Recovery Specialist must possess the ability to lift 30 lbs.

EQUIPMENT USED

The Substance Use Recovery Specialist may operate any or all standard office equipment including a personal computer and personal automobile.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS

These specifications are general guidelines based on the minimum experience normally considered essential to the satisfactory performance of this job. Individual abilities may result in some deviation from these guidelines.

To perform effectively in this position, the Substance Use Recovery Specialist must have:

Basic Qualifications:

Two (2) years professional experience working with adults with disabilities within a residential setting providing substance use counseling.
Valid California driver’s license.
Access to a personal vehicle to be used to conduct ACOF business.
Prior use of the HMIS system.

Preferred Qualifications: 

Familiar with Harm Reduction and Housing First principles
Current Substance Use Certification.
Sound judgment and excellent problem-solving skills.
Ability to work with diverse resident populations to promote independent living skills.
Interpersonal skills in order to communicate effectively with staff and tenants.
Knowledge of public benefit & social service systems.
Proficiency with Microsoft software programs.

A Community of Friends is an equal employment and affirmative action employer F/M/Disability/Vet/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity

Salary Description
$24.04 DOE