JRS Diversion Specialist

Human Services Administration Organization•Pittsburgh, PA

11d•Hybrid

About The Position

The JRS Diversion Specialist provides comprehensive case management for individuals with mental illness and/or co-occurring mental illness and substance use disorders who encounter the criminal justice system in Allegheny County. Working with the Allegheny County Jail, District Courts, Service Coordination Units, Pre-Trial Services, Torrance State Hospital, and community providers, the specialist supports individuals awaiting preliminary hearings. The program aims to divert individuals from incarceration by developing and presenting personalized service plans to District Courts. Services include connecting clients to treatment and housing resources, coordinating benefits and services, and providing advocacy and support throughout court proceedings. The specialist serves as a primary contact and advocate for clients and families, develops and updates individualized service plans, provides face-to-face support at least monthly or as needed, and helps clients navigate the criminal justice system and treatment services. The role coordinates care with behavioral health providers and community partners, facilitates interdisciplinary meetings, supports discharge and post-release planning, and acts as a liaison among clients, providers, and systems. The specialist maintains service plans, case notes, assessments, and other records in electronic health records; complies with HIPAA and confidentiality requirements; and participates in audits and quality reviews. The role also involves ongoing training and mentoring new staff. This is a full-time position with a flexible hybrid work model, including remote administrative tasks, based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Psychology, Education, Nursing, Criminal Justice, or a related field.
Two years of experience in case management, behavioral health, or a related field, or equivalent experience in behavioral health settings.
Knowledge of mental health and addiction treatment principles.
Strong organizational skills and ability to manage a caseload and deadlines.
Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, including cultural competence to work effectively with diverse populations.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team-oriented environment.
Act 33, Act 34, and Allegheny County Jail Security Clearance, required upon hire.
Valid Pennsylvania driver’s license.
Access to a personal vehicle with current insurance coverage.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree preferred.

Responsibilities

Serve as the primary contact and advocate for individuals and families, ensuring services align with their needs and goals.
Develop individualized service plans based on assessments and update them regularly to reflect progress and changing needs.
Provide face-to-face support to clients at least once per month or as needed.
Assist clients in navigating the criminal justice system, including court proceedings, probation or parole requirements, and treatment services.
Coordinate with behavioral health providers to connect clients with mental health, drug and alcohol services, and other community supports.
Facilitate interdisciplinary team meetings with families, healthcare providers, probation officers when appropriate, and other treatment-team participants.
Advocate for clients’ access to resources and provide feedback to address systemic barriers.
Collaborate with treatment providers and community partners to develop discharge plans and post-release services.
Serve as a liaison between clients, providers, and systems to support communication and coordinated care.
Maintain accurate electronic health records, including service plans, case notes, and assessments.
Comply with HIPAA and other confidentiality policies.
Participate in program audits and quality reviews.
Participate in ongoing training on mental health, substance use, and criminal justice services.
Support and mentor new staff.