Patient Care Specialist III - Ambulatory

Pinnacle Treatment Centers • Richmond, VA

4d • Onsite

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. Why Pinnacle Leadership‑focused role with defined career progression Collaborative, mission‑driven care environment Opportunities to directly impact patient outcomes and team performance Supportive culture emphasizing professionalism, growth, and recovery‑focused care

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

What This Job Offers

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