LVN Dispensing Nurse

El Cajon Comprehensive Treatment Center•El Cajon, CA

6d•$35 - $38•Onsite

About The Position

The Dispensing Nurse (LPN/LVN) provides compassionate, professional care in an outpatient opioid treatment program (OTP) setting. The role involves assessing patients, administering medications, monitoring vital signs, educating patients and families, and collaborating with the clinical team to support safe and effective treatment. The nurse follows professional nursing standards and clinic policies and maintains accurate documentation of patient care and progress. The position is with El Cajon Comprehensive Treatment Center (CTC), part of Acadia Healthcare's Comprehensive Treatment Centers. The nursing team provides safe, efficient medication dispensing to people seeking recovery from Opioid Use Disorder. Approximately 90% of work hours are dedicated to medication administration; other duties may be assigned by the Medical or Clinic Director. Depending on clinic needs, the nurse may transport medication to other locations or work on a CTC Mobile Unit. This is a full-time role with 36–40 hours per week. The schedule is Monday through Friday, 5:30 AM–2:00 PM, with rotating Saturdays from 7:00 AM–10:00 AM. The listed California hourly compensation range is $35.00–$38.00.

Requirements

Graduation from an accredited school of nursing as an LPN/LVN.
Current LVN license in the state of California.
Current CPR certification where required by state regulation.
Ability to operate, monitor, and maintain medical equipment safely and effectively.
Skill in drawing blood and collecting other specimens for laboratory testing.
Proficiency with EMR systems and related clinical software applications.
Competence in patient assessment, including evaluating medical histories, symptoms, and overall condition.
Ability to accurately and consistently monitor and record vital signs, including temperature, pulse, and blood pressure.
Ability to administer medications and treatments as prescribed by a physician and in accordance with clinic protocols.
Ability to observe and document patient responses, side effects, and treatment outcomes.
Ability to provide compassionate, professional care and collaborate with the clinical team.

Nice To Haves

One year of nursing experience in behavioral health, an outpatient treatment program, or the addiction recovery field is preferred.
Training or experience treating patients in an outpatient treatment program is preferred.
Previous nursing experience in addiction recovery or behavioral health settings, including outpatient, residential, or correctional facilities, is highly preferred but not required.
Familiarity with Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), including safe handling, administration, and documentation of methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone.
Experience in medication dispensing, monitoring patient dosing, and observing for adverse reactions or medication interactions.
Understanding of nursing best practices in substance use treatment, including trauma-informed care and harm reduction principles.
Experience documenting medication administration records (MARs), patient vitals, and incident reports in accordance with state and federal guidelines.
Knowledge of regulatory requirements such as DEA, 42 CFR Part 2, HIPAA, and Joint Commission standards related to controlled substances and patient care.
Ability to collaborate with physicians, counselors, case managers, and support staff in coordinated, patient-centered care.

Responsibilities

Work under the supervision of the Nursing Supervisor, Medical Director, and Clinic Director while maintaining professional standards of care.
Prepare and administer medication as ordered by the Medical Director or Program Physician accurately and in a timely manner.
Document medication administration and nursing care promptly and accurately in patient records, including progress and activity notes.
Safeguard medication stock and maintain accurate inventories and records in accordance with DEA, FDA, and other regulatory requirements.
Maintain precise accounting of medication received from suppliers and dispensed to patients.
Conduct and process urine and/or blood samples, read test results, complete intake assessments, and assist in monitoring patient outcomes.
Complete documentation associated with procedures accurately and in compliance with clinic standards.
Depending on clinic needs, transport medication to other locations or work on a CTC Mobile Unit.
Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

Medical insurance
Dental insurance
Vision insurance
Competitive 401(k) plan
Paid vacation and sick time
Paid training
Early morning hours offering work/life balance
Opportunity for growth
Lower-stress medication dispensary environment
Stable morning/day shifts and schedule
No heavy lifting of patients and no bedside care
Opportunity to contribute to recovery care
Eligible positions may qualify for student loan forgiveness through HRSA, depending on clinic site eligibility.