HEALTH UNIT COORDINATOR

Arizona Department of Administration•Phoenix, AZ

7d•$45,500 - $52,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Arizona Department of Juvenile Corrections (ADJC) is seeking a Health Unit Coordinator (Clinical Care Specialist) to play a vital role in supporting the daily operations of the healthcare unit within a youth correctional facility. This position serves as a key link between healthcare providers, nursing staff, and youth residents to ensure that all medical and mental health needs are met efficiently and confidentially.

Requirements

Understanding of basic anatomy and physiology to accurately record vitals like blood pressure, pulse, and O2 saturation.
Deep knowledge of medical confidentiality, specifically how to apply to minors and the additional layers of privacy required in a correctional setting.
Familiarity with diagnostic codes, medications, and clinical jargon to accurately route health requests to the right provider.
Understanding the chain of command within a secure facility and the specific safety regulations (e.g., tool counts contraband prevention).
Proficiency in navigating digital charting systems to ensure continuity of care.
The ability to review multiple healthcare requests and route to the appropriate discipline.
Skill in “complex scheduling: coordinating with security for an escort and transportation for off-site visits.
Accuracy in using manual and digital sphygmomanometers, thermometers, and pulse oximeters.
If applicable, the ability to interpret medical needs for ESL (English as a Second Language) youth to ensure no symptom is “lost in translation.”
High-level scanning, filing, and tracking of "pending" outside records to ensure the doctor has all the facts during an exam.
The ability to remain calm and professional if a youth becomes frustrated or if an emergency medical “code” is called in the unit.
Ability to provide compassionate care to a vulnerable, high-trauma population while maintaining professional boundaries.
A “safety-first” mindset; the ability to stay aware of your surroundings and potential security risks while focused on clinical tasks.
The capacity to handle a ringing phone, a correctional officer asking for a clearance form, and a nurse needing vitals-all at the same time.
The strength to handle sensitive information and follow strict ethical guidelines, even when pressured by non-medical staff for information.
Employment is contingent on the selected applicant passing a comprehensive background investigation, drug screening and pre-employment physical examination.
Current State of Arizona employees: In order to be considered for this position, it requires acceptable performance history as demonstrated by not have been issued a letter of suspension or have been involuntarily demoted within one year preceding this job posting close date, and have an overall rating of “meets expectations” or higher on the most recent employee performance evaluation.
This position requires driving or the use of a vehicle as an essential function on the job, then the following requirements apply. Any employee operating a motor vehicle on State business must possess and retain a current, valid class-appropriate driver’s license, complete all required training, and successfully pass all necessary driver’s license records checks. The license must be current, unexpired, and neither revoked or suspended. Employees who drive on state business are subject to driver’s license record checks, must maintain acceptable driving records, and must complete all driver training. An employee who operates a personally owned vehicle on state business shall maintain the statutorily required liability insurance (see Arizona Administrative Code (A.A.C.) R2-10-207.010).
All newly hired State employees are subject to and must successfully complete the Electronic Employment Eligibility Verification Program (E-Verify).

Nice To Haves

Medical Assistant (MA) or Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) credentials preferred

Responsibilities

Collect and review daily healthcare requests submitted by youth residents. Route and schedule requests appropriately to nursing or medical staff for evaluation and follow-up.
Schedule on-site and off-site medical, dental, and mental health appointments. Coordinate transportation and security arrangements as needed, ensuring timely access to care and compliance with facility procedures.
Obtain and document youth vital signs (temperature, pulse, respirations, blood pressure, oxygen saturation, and weight) to assist nursing and provider evaluations. Prepare exam rooms and support medical staff during patient visits when required.
Maintain accurate and up-to-date youth health records in both electronic and paper formats. Ensure all documentation is complete, confidential, and compliant with HIPAA and facility policies.
Track appointment outcomes, follow-up visits, and treatment compliance. Organize and file medical information to support continuity of care, including scanning of records in the electronic health record.
Serve as a communication liaison between healthcare staff, correctional officers, parents/guardians, and youth. Maintain professionalism, confidentiality, and cultural sensitivity in all interactions.
Adhere to infection control standards, facility policies, and ethical guidelines. Participate in mandatory safety and security training relevant to a correctional healthcare environment.
Ordering and stocking supplies and ensuring that quality metrics are adhered to and managing procurement functions.

Benefits

Affordable medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and short-term disability plans
Top-ranked retirement and long-term disability plans
10 paid holidays per year
Vacation time accrued at 4.00 hours bi-weekly for the first 3 years
Sick time accrued at 3:42 hours bi-weekly
Deferred Compensation Program
Wellness Plans
Paid Parental Leave program
Employer matches contributions
Contributions are made on a pre-taxed basis
Employees can choose investments that suit their goals and risk tolerance
Employees are fully vested after 3 years of service