Patient Care Specialist II - Ambulatory

Pinnacle Treatment Brand • Newport News, VA

16h

About The Position

As a Patient Care Specialist II – Ambulatory Services (PCS II) at our Newport News, VA location, you will be an active member of a multidisciplinary treatment team providing direct care in a transitional living and ambulatory recovery environment. In this role, you will support patient safety, engagement, and structure while modeling best practices and providing peer guidance to PCS I teammates.

Pinnacle Treatment Centers is a mission‑driven organization committed to delivering compassionate, evidence‑based addiction treatment. Patient Care Specialists play a vital role in supporting daily recovery and maintaining a structured, trauma‑informed environment.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Minimum of one (1) year of experience in a behavioral healthcare or substance use treatment setting
• Basic knowledge of addiction and the recovery process
• Working knowledge of or willingness to learn Microsoft Office (Outlook, Teams, Word)
• Valid driver’s license in the state of employment
• CPR and MANDT certification (training provided and maintained as required)
• Ability to travel locally up to 30%, including patient transportation

Nice To Haves

• One and a half (1.5) years of experience in a behavioral healthcare setting
• State‑recognized addiction training certification
• Intermediate knowledge of addiction treatment and recovery principles
• Strong computer and documentation skills

Responsibilities

• Support patient engagement through role modeling, encouragement, and motivational interviewing
• Promote a trauma‑informed, recovery‑oriented environment through calm and respectful enforcement of program guidelines
• Support AMA prevention and early intervention by monitoring risk indicators and communicating concerns to the treatment team
• Assist with admissions by monitoring patient safety, providing orientation, and completing required documentation
• Facilitate patient cellphone access in accordance with the Transitional Living Playbook
• Follow all safety, medical, infection control, and security protocols, including searches, drug screen observations, and heat treatments
• Conduct patient and belongings searches for contraband and manage valuables according to policy
• Monitor patient self‑administration of medications and obtain vital signs as required, reporting changes to medical staff
• Maintain readiness for medical and behavioral emergencies, including overdose response and Narcan administration
• Ensure accurate and timely EHR and facility documentation, including shift reports and incident reports
• Facilitate or support recovery activities, support groups, and daily programming
• Support patients in developing life and recovery skills through structured activities
• Assist with meal planning, grocery orders, and independent living skill development
• Support patients with basic aftercare planning documentation and coordination with the treatment team
• Provide safe and compliant patient transportation and maintain accurate mileage records
• Organize and facilitate store runs and community outings in accordance with established procedures
• Maintain a clean, safe, and structured physical environment through routine inspections
• Perform duties in alignment with CARF standards to support accreditation readiness
• Support and guide PCS I teammates with skill development and role acclimation
• Model professionalism, accountability, and best practices in patient care and documentation
• Maintain required training and certifications
• Perform other duties as assigned

Benefits

• 18 days Paid Time Off (PTO) and 8 paid holidays
• Variable pay structure based on experience and education
• Defined career pathing through the Patient Care Specialist Tier Program
• Substance Use Disorder Treatment and Recovery Loan Repayment Program (STAR LRP) at eligible facilities
• Access to 600+ free CEU courses
• Discounted tuition opportunities through Capella University
• Schedule flexibility to support work‑life balance
• Merit‑based increases recognizing performance and growth
• Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: High school or GED
• Number of Employees: 251-500 employees