Job scope: 

The Community Health Worker (CHW) position is key in the role of increasing opportunities for substance users, including opioid users, to reduce any type of harm related to users' substance use.  The CHW will address the following:  increase retention of eligible population in substance use and mental health services, help eligible population address any medical needs developed from their substance use disorder (SUD), help eligible population eliminate their SUD and build a foundation for their recovery.  The CHW will work with youth and adults who have substance use issues.  The CHW addresses health disparities that adversely affect groups of people who have systematically experienced greater obstacles to health based on their racial or ethnic group; religion; socioeconomic status; gender; age; mental health; cognitive, sensory, or physical disability; sexual orientation or gender identity; geographic location; or other characteristics historically linked to discrimination or exclusion. 

Education/licensure:

Prefer Bachelor's degree in psychology, social work or other substance use related fields.  High school or GED required. Licensed or Certified as Recovery Coach, Peer Provider, Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC), Registered Nurse, or Licensed Vocational Nurse.  Will obtain and maintain Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) CHW certification.  Valid driver's license in state of residence and ability to be insured.

Experience/Knowledge: 

Two years of experience working with individuals with behavioral health issues with an emphasis on substance use issues preferred.  Two years of experience with substance use outreach, intervention, or treatment.  Preference to have experience in working in the following:  prison populations, housing instability, sexually transmitted diseases.  Knowledge of Motivational Interviewing techniques, service coordination, and crisis management and prevention.

Physical requirements that are bona fide occupational qualifications essential to the performance of the job:

 Ability and strength to sit, bend, and reach during an 8 to 10 hour day.  Able to lift a minimum of 10 pounds.  Must be able to travel by automobile for up to 6 hours daily.  Sensory acuity sufficient to evaluate, treat, and monitor patient needs and maintain accurate records.  Fine motor skills sufficient to legibly document and communicate.

Minimum Hourly Salary: $18.26