Substance Use Disorder Counselor I

Pacific Clinics • Santa Fe Springs, CA

18d

About The Position

Under the direction of the Program Director or Team Supervisor, the Substance Use Disorder Counselor I implements integrated substance abuse services and provides individual and group services. The role implements treatment plans and monitors the needs of clients with substance use disorders and co-occurring disorders. The position works with clients, families, community members, multidisciplinary teams, internal programs, and external partners, while maintaining accurate records and meeting agency billing and program requirements.

The schedule is Tuesday and Thursday from 12:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., and Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Driving is required. The role may involve unsupervised contact with children and requires a full background check and TB exam. Physical duties include frequently standing or sitting, using hands to produce records or documentation, significant communication with community members, regularly lifting or moving up to 5 pounds, and occasionally lifting or moving up to 10 pounds.

The initial compensation range is $23.00–$28.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and internal equity considerations. Qualifying roles may receive bilingual differentials of up to 7.5% for direct-service roles or up to $80 per month for non-direct-service roles. Benefits eligibility begins on day one, subject to eligibility requirements based on employment status; benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage, a 401(k) employer match of up to 4%, and competitive time-off plans.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED.
• California State Registered Substance Use Disorder Counselor, or equivalent.
• Knowledge of substance use disorders, treatment modalities, and recovery principles.
• Ability to conduct assessments and develop client-centered treatment plans.
• Skill in facilitating individual and group counseling sessions.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Cultural competence and sensitivity when working with diverse populations.
• Understanding of co-occurring disorders and integrated care approaches.
• Ability to maintain professional boundaries and confidentiality.
• Collaboration skills for working with multidisciplinary teams and external partners.
• Accurate documentation and case management abilities.
• Knowledge of ethical and legal standards in addiction counseling.
• Commitment to ongoing learning and adherence to evidence-based practices.
• Crisis intervention and problem-solving skills.
• Dependability and consistency in providing client support and follow-up.
• Ability to perform the essential duties satisfactorily.
• Driving required.
• Requires a full background check and TB exam.
• Ability to communicate significantly with the Clinics' community members.
• Ability to regularly lift or move up to 5 pounds and occasionally lift or move up to 10 pounds.

Responsibilities

• Performs substance abuse screens, intakes, and clinical assessments.
• Develops person-centered treatment plans for clients with substance use and co-occurring disorders, including initial, ongoing, continuity-of-care, discharge, and relapse-prevention planning.
• Assists with admitting and releasing clients, including gathering information about prior admissions and psychological and physical conditions.
• Provides counseling, trauma-informed care, and psychoeducation to individuals, families, and groups.
• Educates clients, families, and community members about substance use and co-occurring disorders.
• Works with clients regarding abusive behavior and advises them about legal responsibilities related to various behaviors.
• Provides information and referrals to appropriate treatment, recovery support, aftercare, and other supportive services.
• Assists clients with applying for programs or refers them for application assistance.
• Demonstrates knowledge of the Strategic Prevention Framework for Substance Use Disorders and performs activities included in Center for Substance Abuse Prevention strategies.
• Documents and maintains client activity records in accordance with policies and procedures and to inform staff of client progress.
• Participates in case conferences and provides relevant information to multidisciplinary teams, including mental health staff and case managers.
• Works on a multicultural team that is sensitive to the cultural and linguistic needs of clients and families.
• Completes billing requirements and provides services consistent with program needs.
• Conducts random and routine drug and alcohol tests.
• Attends and participates in staff meetings, contributing to program development and staff training.
• Interacts with internal programs, clinical and support staff, and external contacts such as school or community personnel, as applicable.
• Reports to work on time and maintains reliable, regular attendance.
• Models Pacific Clinics’ approach, mission, and core values in communications and correspondence.
• Performs professional and ethical responsibilities.
• Communicates effectively with a diverse consumer population and promotes favorable interactions with managers, coworkers, and others.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage, subject to eligibility requirements.
• 401(k) employer match up to 4%.
• Competitive time-off plans, subject to eligibility requirements based on employment status.
• Possible bilingual differential of up to 7.5% for qualifying direct-service roles or up to $80 per month for qualifying non-direct-service roles.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED