Program Specialist 1 - CHW - 1792

CENTRAL COUNTIES CENTER FOR MENTAL•Temple, TX

1d•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. This position includes a focus 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.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in social work, psychology, public health, criminal justice, or related field
Knowledge of behavioral health systems, substance use disorders, and harm reduction practices
Ability to coordinate with multiple systems (healthcare providers, community agencies, etc.)
Ability to manage documentation and reporting requirements
Relationship skills
Strong communication and interpersonal skills
Ability to work cooperatively as a team member and maintain effective, respectful working relationships
Ability to maintain accurate records and follow established documentation procedures
Commitment to trauma-informed care principles and cultural sensitivity
Ability to remain flexible and organized in a changing work environment
Ability to remain calm and professional in high stress situations
Must obtain Community Health Worker (CHW) certification within 6 months of employment
Valid driver’s license with acceptable driving record
Ability to pass background check per Center requirements
Follow all Center safety protocols for field based outreach
Utilize de-escalation and crisis intervention techniques
Maintain situational awareness in clinic and community environments
Ability to drive, sit, stand, walk, bend and move throughout the community for extended periods of time
See, hear, and communicate effectively to perform job duties
Use a computer, telephone, and standard office equipment for prolonged periods
Perform repetitive tasks such as typing, filing, and data entry
Lift and/or move up to 25 pounds
Interact frequently with consumers, staff, and the public in a professional and customer focused manner
Respond appropriately to challenging or unpredictable situations, including safely de-escalating and managing interactions with individuals who may exhibit verbally or physically escalated behavior, in accordance with training and Center policies
Maintain sufficient mental and emotional health to meet the inherent stressors of the position
Work in an environment with frequent interruptions and changing priorities
Perform the essential functions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation, in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

Nice To Haves

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

Responsibilities

Provides mobile outreach, engagement, and referrals using a trauma-informed, “no-shame” approach for mental health, substance use, and medical services
Delivers services in community settings (homes, shelters, schools, and other public locations)
Distributes harm reduction materials (e.g., Narcan, hygiene kits, safe sex kits) and provides age-appropriate education on substance use, harm reduction, and healthy lifestyle choices
Connects individuals to mental health, substance use, medical, and community resources, and supports engagement in services
Establishes and maintains relationships with individuals, families, and community partners to reduce barriers to care and improve access to services
Coordinates with CCS staff and supports individuals during intake and referral processes
Maintains and updates community resource lists
Tracks outreach activities and outcomes in accordance with grant requirements
Documents outreach activities and service delivery in a timely and accurate manner
Participates in team based outreach in accordance with safety protocols
Maintains compliance with all required training and Center policies
Markets program services to community organizations and stakeholders
Performs other related duties as assigned
Complete documentation within 24–48 hours of service delivery
Maintain assigned outreach and engagement targets
Participate in regular team meetings and case coordination
Demonstrate consistent follow through on referrals and service connections