Patient Care Specialist III - Ambulatory

Pinnacle Treatment Brand

About The Position

As a Patient Care Specialist III (PCS III – Ambulatory Services) at our Richmond, VA location, you will serve as a frontline leader within our ambulatory and transitional living programs. In addition to providing direct patient care, you will mentor PCS I and PCS II teammates, provide real‑time coaching, and collaborate with leadership to ensure patient care practices align with clinical best practices, regulatory standards, and organizational expectations.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent
Minimum of two (2) years of experience in a behavioral healthcare or substance use treatment setting
Intermediate knowledge of addiction and the recovery process
Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office (Outlook, Teams, Word)
Demonstrated ability to mentor, coach, and support teammates
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 25%, including patient transportation

Nice To Haves

Associate degree in a behavioral science discipline
State‑recognized Peer Support Certification or addiction training certification
Advanced knowledge of addiction treatment and recovery principles
Advanced technology skills, including Microsoft Excel

Responsibilities

Support patient engagement through role modeling, motivational interviewing, and reinforcement of program expectations
Promote a trauma‑informed, recovery‑oriented environment through calm leadership 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, ensuring 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
Search patients and belongings for contraband and manage valuables according to policy
Monitor patient self‑administration of medications and obtain vital signs as required
Maintain readiness for medical and behavioral emergencies, including overdose response and Narcan administration
Complete timely and accurate EHR and facility documentation, including shift reports, incident reports, and patient observations
Facilitate or support patient activities, recovery support groups, and life skills development
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 transportation for patients and maintain accurate mileage records
Organize and facilitate store runs and community outings in accordance with established guidelines
Maintain a clean, safe, and structured physical environment through routine inspections
Ensure duties are performed in alignment with CARF standards to support accreditation readiness
Provide peer mentorship and real‑time coaching to PCS I and PCS II teammates
Support onboarding and development of new teammates through training and feedback
Model professionalism, accountability, and best practices in patient care and documentation
Collaborate with leadership to improve workflows, patient experience, and care quality
Assist with scheduling support, shift coverage, special projects, or audits as needed
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
Shift differential for evening coverage
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 leadership growth
Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion