SUD Associate Recovery Technician

McAlister Institute for Treatment & Education•San Diego, CA
•$21 - $26•Onsite

About The Position

Join McAlister Institute, a 49-year beacon in San Diego's Recovery Community. We are seeking an Associate Recovery Technician who will support the Recovery & Bridge Center team in maintaining a safe, welcoming, and recovery-focused environment. This role assists with intake, screening, care coordination, and logistical support, working collaboratively to promote client stability and engagement in recovery.

Requirements

  • High school diploma or equivalent (GED) required.
  • Candidates must meet one of the following: EMT background, registered SUD counselor, certified peer support specialist, associate level education in a relevant field, or two years’ experience working in the SUD field.
  • Must be CPR and First Aid certified on the date of employment or within 60 days of employment and maintain current certification throughout employment.
  • Maintains knowledge of legal guidelines pertaining to EMTALA/COBRA and abuse/neglect reporting.
  • Knowledgeable about harm reduction, trauma-informed care, patient-centered care, and motivational interviewing.
  • Ability to work effectively with a diverse population, including the impoverished, unhoused, and those suffering from chronic substance use and/or mental health challenges.
  • Exceptional interpersonal skills, written and verbal communication, adaptability, and professionalism.
  • Exudes a calm and competent manner, able to converse with medical professionals, lay persons, as well as persons or families and defuse crisis or high intensity situations.
  • Proficiency with software and/or equipment (Microsoft Office applications including Outlook, Word, Excel and PowerPoint).
  • Proficient with EHR Systems (e.g., Electronic Health Records such as Welligent or SmartCare).
  • Maintains confidentiality; listens to others without interrupting; effectively regulates emotions, especially under stress; remains open to others' ideas and tries new things.
  • On-site position.
  • Must possess a valid and unrestricted California Driver's License, with a good driving record, free of any major infractions.
  • Skills include strong paperwork and computer skills, ability to maintain up-to-date records, exceptional written and verbal communication; ability to work in a team; excellent time management skills; and organizational abilities.
  • Must comply with all agency and contract requirements related to trainings, public health, certifications, reporting, etc.
  • Must be able to pass a drug test, background clearance, and provide a negative TB test.
  • Must be free of probation or parole for at least one year.

Nice To Haves

  • Bilingual proficiency in Spanish and English strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

  • Support and implement the overall purpose, philosophy, values, and direction of McAlister Institute and the Recovery and Bridge Center.
  • Assist with intake, screening, and assessment using approved tools (e.g., SBIRT, ASAM Criteria).
  • Coordinate with law enforcement, health, and safety agencies as needed.
  • Facilitate referrals and linkages to community resources and treatment programs.
  • Maintain accurate records and documentation.
  • Ensure a safe, clean, and dignified environment for all clients.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Benefits

  • 13 paid annual holidays, including your birthday
  • 12 paid vacation days
  • Paid sick leave
  • Public Service Loan Forgiveness eligibility
  • 403(b) Retirement Plan + up to 6% Employer Match
  • Health Insurance available the first of the month following 30 days of employment (Sharp)
  • EAP
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