Harm Reduction/ Substance Use Specialist

WHY WORK FOR US? We are mission and values driven and your contributions will make a difference. We make a positive difference in people's lives and help an average of 23 people per week to find a place to live. If you join us, you will be able to advocate for change while also working with influential people who effect changes in policy and devote time to issues of racial and social justice. We prioritize your work/life balance and provide various scheduling options in addition to generous time off, health, and wellness benefits and are committed to helping you reach your potential by providing opportunities for professional growth across the state. POSITION DETAILS Title: Harm Reduction/ Substance Use SpecialistLocation: San Jose, CASalary: $***** to $***** per hourSchedule: Swing Shift Monday - Friday 12:30pm to 9:00pmFull Time, Non-Exempt, Driving Required ABOUT PATH Since its foundation in ****, PATH (People Assisting The Homeless) has pioneered bold and effective approaches to assist people experiencing homelessness. PATH operates services throughout California, connecting our clients to a comprehensive continuum of homelessness prevention, street outreach, employment preparation and placement assistance, individualized case management, supportive services, interim housing, and permanent supportive housing. ABOUT THE JOB As part of the Interim Housing Services - SCC team, the Harm Reduction Specialist works with a team to address barriers toward permanent housing and community integration. The role includes completing substance use assessments using a harm reduction model, identifying positive interventions to improve client quality of life, and using motivational interviewing to link clients to community resources. POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES Perform initial comprehensive substance use assessment and develop an intervention plan that addresses ongoing case management services, substance abuse treatment, mental health services, and coordination of needed community services. Develop individualized care plans in collaboration with the team and client, addressing short-term and long-term goals. Provide ongoing case management support to assess progress and ensure treatment plan outcomes are met or changed as needed. Meet at least weekly with clients to provide therapeutic, supportive case management services addressing functional and substance use barriers to help clients obtain and maintain housing. Conduct crisis and suicide risk assessment, provide appropriate interventions, consult with LCSW supervisor, and complete critical incident reporting within 24 hours as required per contract and PATH policies. Provide crisis intervention services focused on enhancing the client’s ability to independently problem solve, utilize effective coping skills, and manage and self‑coordinate their own care. Provide intentional case management supports that move the client from a highly intensive level of service to a more independent, recovery-focused level of service as appropriate. Utilize evidence‑based practices in service delivery such as intensive case management, Motivational Interviewing, and Harm Reduction. Support clients who have difficulty with sobriety in making safer choices (e.g., needle exchange). Maintain documentation standards as set forth by the program contract and PATH policies. Complete progress notes on every face‑to‑face or telephone contact with client or collateral contact within 24 hours. Attend and actively engage in all required training sessions as assigned by the company and apply learned skills and knowledge to daily tasks and responsibilities. Attend and actively engage in all required staff meetings and events on and off‑site (when applicable). WHAT YOU BRING Analytical Skills and Attention to Detail: Gather and interpret data, identifying trends, patterns, and insights to inform decision‑making; consistently produce high‑quality work with accuracy and precision. Collaboration and Teamwork: Work effectively with others, building positive relationships and contributing to team goals while recognizing others’ strengths. Communication: Convey information clearly and effectively to individuals and groups, engaging and maintaining attention. Creativity and Initiative: Take action and make decisions without prompting, demonstrating a proactive approach and willingness to take on additional responsibilities; generate innovative solutions to problems or challenges. Critical Thinking and Problem Solving: Analyze and evaluate information, identify key issues, consider alternatives, and make logical decisions based on sound reasoning to achieve desired outcomes. Ethics and Boundaries: Maintain ethical and professional standards, demonstrating honesty, integrity, and a commitment to doing the right thing while maintaining professional boundaries. PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS Bachelor’s degree in a related field. Certification in substance use counseling (e.g., CAADE, CADTP, CCAPP). MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS Two (2) years of demonstrated experience providing substance abuse counseling or an equivalent combination of experience and education. MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS Employment eligibility verification. Have or be willing to obtain CPR/First Aid training. Successfully complete Tuberculosis, Background Screening, and Drug Tests as conditions of hire. Driving is an essential function: reliable transportation, valid driver’s license, proof of insurance and ownership for personal vehicles used during work duties, and ability to qualify for PATH’s insurance coverage. EMPLOYMENT ELIGIBILITY Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S. and are not eligible for sponsorship of an employment Visa. PATH is committed to maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and objectivity in its employment practices. CALIFORNIA-BASED WORK EXPECTATIONS All regular and customary work must be performed within California. PATH does not offer fully remote positions. While some roles may include a schedule that involves multiple designated worksites or approved off‑site locations, this does not imply work will be performed from home. Work schedules may be adjusted at any time according to responsibilities and operational requirements. WHAT WE OFFER In addition to a rewarding work environment, we offer a competitive benefits package that includes medical, dental and vision coverage, vacation and sick time, paid holidays, and a retirement plan. EEO STATEMENTS PATH provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. PATH complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. PATH will consider all qualified applicants, including those with criminal histories, in a manner consistent with applicable state and local laws. PATH is dedicated to racial and social justice by centering equity in its service delivery and maintaining a diverse and inclusive work environment for the communities it serves. READY TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE THROUGH ACTION? If this position sounds like a fit, please submit your application today. A resume is required. #J-18808-Ljbffr