Outreach & Engagement Specialist II

Alpharus Health•Springfield, IL

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The Outreach & Engagement Specialist II supports patient access to care through community-based outreach, referral coordination, and engagement activities. Under direct supervision, the role connects individuals to appropriate substance use and mental health services, reduces barriers to care, and supports ongoing treatment engagement through community partnerships and service coordination. The position serves the adult male and female population at the Springfield Residential Center and works primarily in community-based settings, including public locations, shelters, community service sites, and areas where individuals experiencing housing instability may reside. The role involves regular field-based outreach in non-traditional environments, local travel, and possible exposure to unpredictable or high-risk environments and outdoor weather conditions. The specialist must follow safety protocols and maintain situational awareness. The work schedule is Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED required.
Valid driver’s license and ability to travel locally; ability to transport patients when required or assigned.
State-recognized behavioral health certification, peer support certification or designation, or professional licensure required, as applicable to the position’s responsibilities and permitted scope of practice.
At least 2 years of experience in behavioral health, outreach, or intake services.
Demonstrated ability to leverage recovery experience to engage patients during their recovery journey.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills, including the ability to engage effectively with diverse populations.
Ability to develop and foster working relationships with referral sources and community partners.
Ability to assess needs and connect individuals to appropriate services.
Familiarity with the assigned region, including community resources and service networks, or ability to quickly develop this knowledge.
Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, community-based environment.
Basic proficiency in documentation systems and standard office software.
Ability to communicate effectively in person, by phone, in writing, and through digital media.
Ability to travel throughout the community and operate a motor vehicle.
Ability to stand, walk, and engage in outreach activities for extended periods.
Ability to lift and carry materials up to 20 pounds.
Ability to use a computer and standard office equipment.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Psychology, Marketing, Healthcare Administration, or a related field.
Experience working with individuals impacted by substance use disorders and/or mental health conditions in a community, healthcare, or social service setting.
Experience in outreach, care coordination, or referral support.

Responsibilities

Engage individuals in community and field-based settings to assess needs, provide education, and connect them to appropriate services and levels of care.
Coordinate referrals and timely access to care by connecting patients with internal programs and external providers, prioritizing organizational services when appropriate, and collaborating with admissions and program staff.
Provide follow-up and basic care coordination to reduce barriers to engagement and support service access.
Conduct outreach activities, including community events, site visits, and meetings, to promote services and increase awareness.
Develop and maintain working relationships with referral sources and community organizations.
Help individuals navigate behavioral health services, substance use treatment, and community resources.
Maintain accurate and timely documentation of outreach, patient interactions, and referral activities.
Monitor outreach and referral activity and communicate trends, barriers, and opportunities to leadership.
Maintain billable service hours tied to patient engagement, outreach services, and care coordination activities when required.
Complete screenings and assessments of patients for Alpharus Health programs as needed.
Support complex cases requiring advanced resource navigation.

Benefits

Medical, dental, and vision insurance for employees and dependents.
Employee wellness program promoting health and fitness and offering cash-saving premiums.
Employee assistance programs focused on mental health.
403(b) retirement plan with 3% employer match.
Short-term and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, and AD&D insurance paid for by Alpharus.
Flexible Spending Accounts for medical and dependent care.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF).
18 paid time off days per year, with accrual rates increasing with years of service.
9 paid company holidays.
Training and development programs.
Tuition reimbursement up to $5,250 per calendar year.
eLearning access to online courses that provide CEUs and job-related training.
Clinical supervision, including formal and informal guidance.