Program Specialist/Recovery Specialist

Westmoreland Community Action•Latrobe, PA

1d•$25•Hybrid

About The Position

POSITION SUMMARY The Recovery Specialist/Program Specialist will conduct prison in-reach, complete assessments, develop individualized transition plans, and provide intensive case management and resource navigation. This role follows evidence-based practices aligned with the Assess, Plan, Identify, Coordinate (APIC) model and Transition from Jail to Community (TJC) principles. This position is central to WCA’s Recovery Re-Entry Program, which aims to reduce substance misuse and recidivism by strengthening continuity of care.

Requirements

Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Human Services, Criminal Justice, or related field OR equivalent experience
Minimum of 2 years experience in: Case management, Substance use/recovery services, Re-entry or justice-involved populations
Strong interpersonal and engagement skills
Ability to build trust with justice-involved populations
Excellent organizational and documentation skills
Ability to manage multiple cases and priorities
Cultural competency and nonjudgmental approach
Strong problem-solving and resource coordination skills

Nice To Haves

Certified Recovery Specialist (CRS) or willingness to obtain certification within one year of employment
Experience working with incarcerated or formerly incarcerated individuals
Knowledge of local recovery, housing, and social service systems
Trauma-informed care training

Responsibilities

Conduct regular in-reach at Westmoreland County Prison to engage individuals preparing for release
Complete comprehensive assessments, including: Substance use screening, Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) assessments, Coordinated Entry (CE) assessments, Identify needs related to housing, employment, healthcare, transportation, and recovery
Develop individualized, person-centered re-entry and recovery plans
Provide intensive case management services to enrolled participants
Maintain an active caseload not exceeding approximately 30 participants at a time
Conduct pre-release planning to ensure continuity of care upon re-entry
Connect participants to community-based resources, including: Substance use treatment and recovery programs, Recovery housing and emergency shelter, Workforce development and employment services, Food, clothing, identification documents, and transportation supports
Facilitate “warm handoffs” to service providers to ensure successful engagement
Maintain consistent participant engagement through structured follow-ups at: 30, 60, 90, and 180 days post-release
Monitor participant progress and adjust service plans as needed
Provide coaching, encouragement, and ongoing recovery support
Coordinate closely with Westmoreland County Prison staff, including the Population Manager
Participate in community partner meetings and collaborative networks
Work with local service providers to ensure coordinated, non-duplicative care
Maintain accurate and timely documentation in WCA’s data system (empowOR)
Track: Assessments completed, Services provided, Referrals made, Participant outcomes
Prepare reports for program leadership and county partners as required
Ensure services align with APIC and TJC model guidelines
Participate in supervision, case reviews, and continuous quality improvement efforts
Maintain compliance with all grant requirements and WCA policies