Program Specialist 1 - CHW

Program Specialist 1 - CHWTemple Feed My Sheep - Temple, TX 76504OverviewPosition Type: Full Time Job Shift: Day Education Level: 4 Year Degree Travel Percentage: DailyDescriptionMinimum Starting Hourly Rate: $20.09Maximum Starting Hourly Rate - Dependent on QualificationsBenefitsHealthDentalVisionLife InsuranceGenerous Paid Time Off - 7.69 hrs. per pay period10 Observed Company Paid Holidays8 Hours Annual Volunteer Time OffRetirement Plan w/ 6% Employer ContributionEmployee Assistance ProgramThis is a grant funded position, and employment is contingent upon continued fundingGeneral Description 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.Essential Duties And ResponsibilitiesProvides mobile outreach, engagement, and referrals using a trauma-informed, "no-shame" approach for mental health, substance use, and medical servicesDelivers 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 choicesConnects individuals to mental health, substance use, medical, and community resources, and supports engagement in servicesEstablishes and maintains relationships with individuals, families, and community partners to reduce barriers to care and improve access to servicesCoordinates with CCS staff and supports individuals during intake and referral processesMaintains and updates community resource listsTracks outreach activities and outcomes in accordance with grant requirementsDocuments outreach activities and service delivery in a timely and accurate mannerParticipates in team based outreach in accordance with safety protocolsMaintains compliance with all required training and Center policiesMarkets program services to community organizations and stakeholdersPerforms other related duties as assignedPerformance ExpectationsComplete documentation within 24–48 hours of service deliveryMaintain assigned outreach and engagement targetsParticipate in regular team meetings and case coordinationDemonstrate consistent follow through on referrals and service connectionsSafety RequirementsFollow all Center safety protocols for field based outreachUtilize de-escalation and crisis intervention techniquesMaintain situational awareness in clinic and community environmentsGeneral Qualifications Experience/Education Bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, public health, criminal justice, or related field Experience working with high-risk or underserved populations preferredKnowledge/Skills/AbilitiesKnowledge of behavioral health systems, substance use disorders, and harm reduction practicesExperience working with youth or young adults in community or behavioral health settings preferredAbility to coordinate with multiple systems (healthcare providers, community agencies, etc.)Ability to manage documentation and reporting requirementsRelationship skillsStrong communication and interpersonal skillsAbility to work cooperatively as a team member and maintain effective, respectful working relationshipsAbility to maintain accurate records and follow established documentation proceduresCommitment to trauma-informed care principles and cultural sensitivityAbility to remain flexible and organized in a changing work environmentAbility to remain calm and professional in high stress situationsLicenses And RequirementsMust obtain Community Health Worker (CHW) certification within 6 months of employmentValid driver's license with acceptable driving recordAbility to pass background check per Center requirementsWork Environment And Functional Requirements This position requires the ability to: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. An employee is "mentally fit" when their mental state allows them to perform the essential job duties of their job safely and effectively, which includes being able to concentrate, make decisions, manage stress and maintain focus.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).At-Will Employment Statement Employment with Central Counties Services is at-will. This means that either the employee or the Center may terminate the employment relationship at any time, with or without notice, and with or without cause, subject to applicable law. Nothing in this job description or any other policy, procedure, or communication should be construed as creating a contract of employment or altering the at-will nature of employment.Equal Opportunity Employer Central Counties Services is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by state or federal law.