Risk Reduction Specialist

The Risk Reduction Specialist will conduct HIV outreach, counseling, testing, and referral services; document activities, implement behavioral interventions, collect data, and provide other HIV prevention services in targeted communities.

JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Follow CDC Protocol-Based Counseling guidelines
• Follow testing guidelines set by the Department of State Health and Human Services
• Conduct HIV prevention and intervention activities with target populations
• Conduct motivational interviewing techniques
• Conduct in-depth risk assessment and risk reduction counseling
• Perform all HIV outreach services in accordance with Texas Administrative Code
• Adhere to established procedures for conducting street outreach
• Provide outreach through social media entities
• Distribute written materials for educational and health literacy levels of target populations
• Utilize webpage and the internet to conduct HIV outreach services
• Participate in targeted recruitment of participants
• Adhere to quality management policies and procedures
• Provide HIV1/2 Advanced Antibody test using Rapid Test process
• Distribute materials to support risk reduction (condoms, substance abuse reduction tools, and other safer sex tools) to target populations
• Compile and submit cumulative and quarterly program reports
• Comply with program procedure guidance as outlined by state and federal regulations
• Attend appropriate community resource meetings, staff meetings, training, and telephone conferences
• Participate in general HIV testing events
• Follow all agency communicable disease guidelines and safety protocols
• Perform other duties as assigned

Qualifications

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Undergraduate degree in social or behavioral sciences
• Two years of successful experience conducting HIV outreach, testing, counseling, and prevention/intervention activities with target populations
• Knowledgeable and competent in discussing the clinical aspects of HIV, Hepatitis C, and other communicable diseases associated with substance use/abuse
• Able to demonstrate the ability to address concerns openly and comfortably about sexual and substance abuse risk behaviors to target populations
• Thorough knowledge of the target areas, including resources, culture, and overall environment
• Two years of experience in the use of motivational interviewing techniques, and harm-reduction models Transtheoretical Model of Stages of Change
• Foster and maintain working linkages with community resources
• Current valid driver’s license and daily access to transportation during work hours
• Successful completion of required HIV prevention and counseling course as outlined by local, state, and federal government
• Outstanding organizational, verbal, and written communication skills
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work with diverse community groups
• Proficient in using Microsoft Outlook, Word, and Excel