Program Specialist 1 - CHW - 1792

CENTRAL COUNTIES CENTER FOR MENTAL•Temple, TX

2d•$20•Onsite

About The Position

This grant-funded position provides community-based outreach, engagement, education, and referral services to individuals experiencing substance use, mental health, and related health challenges. Services are delivered in non-traditional settings to reduce barriers to care and improve access to treatment and support services. The role focuses on engaging youth and adults, particularly those at risk of or impacted by substance use, behavioral health challenges, homelessness, or justice system involvement. Employment is contingent upon continued grant funding. The position delivers mobile outreach and referrals using a trauma-informed, no-shame approach; distributes harm reduction materials; provides age-appropriate education; and connects people with health and community resources. It works with individuals, families, community partners, and Center staff, and maintains outreach records and grant-required reporting. The role is based at Temple Feed My Sheep in Temple, Texas, with daily travel and day-shift hours. Employment with Central Counties Services is at-will.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in social work, psychology, public health, criminal justice, or a related field.
Knowledge of behavioral health systems, substance use disorders, and harm reduction practices.
Ability to coordinate with multiple systems, including healthcare providers and community agencies.
Ability to manage documentation and reporting requirements, maintain accurate records, and follow established documentation procedures.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to work cooperatively as a team member and maintain effective, respectful working relationships.
Commitment to trauma-informed care principles and cultural sensitivity.
Ability to remain flexible and organized in a changing work environment and calm and professional in high-stress situations.
Must obtain Community Health Worker (CHW) certification within six months of employment.
Valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record.
Must pass a background check per Center requirements.
Ability to sit, stand, and walk for extended periods; see, hear, and communicate effectively; use a computer, telephone, and standard office equipment for prolonged periods; perform repetitive tasks; and lift or move up to 15 pounds.
Ability to respond appropriately to challenging or unpredictable situations, including safely de-escalating interactions with individuals who may exhibit verbally or physically escalated behavior.
Ability to perform essential job functions safely and effectively, with or without reasonable accommodation, including maintaining professionalism, sound judgment, appropriate interpersonal interactions, concentration, and appropriate responses in stressful or crisis situations.

Nice To Haves

Experience working with high-risk or underserved populations.
Experience working with youth or young adults in community or behavioral health settings.

Responsibilities

Provide mobile outreach, engagement, and referrals for mental health, substance use, and medical services using a trauma-informed, no-shame approach.
Deliver services in community settings, including homes, shelters, schools, and other public locations.
Distribute harm reduction materials, such as Narcan, hygiene kits, and safe sex kits, and provide age-appropriate education on substance use, harm reduction, and healthy lifestyle choices.
Connect individuals to mental health, substance use, medical, and community resources and support their engagement in services.
Establish and maintain relationships with individuals, families, and community partners to reduce barriers to care and improve access to services.
Coordinate with CCS staff and support individuals during intake and referral processes.
Maintain and update community resource lists.
Track outreach activities and outcomes in accordance with grant requirements.
Document outreach activities and service delivery accurately and on time, completing documentation within 24–48 hours.
Participate in team-based outreach, following safety protocols, and attend regular team meetings and case coordination.
Maintain assigned outreach and engagement targets and follow through on referrals and service connections.
Follow Center safety protocols for field outreach, use de-escalation and crisis intervention techniques, and maintain situational awareness.
Maintain compliance with required training and Center policies.
Market program services to community organizations and stakeholders.
Perform other related duties as assigned.