Engagement Specialist

Job Title: Engagement Specialist
Dept: Harm Reduction Services
Reports to: Harm Reduction Program Manager
Employment Status: Part-Time (20 hours/week)

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Salary Range: $23.00 – $25.00 hourly

Location: Watertown, NY

Position Summary:

The Engagement Specialist provides compassionate, person-centered support to individuals at risk for substance use-related harms. The Engagement Specialist conducts street and community outreach to engage BIPOC and justice-involved PWUD in low-threshold services. This role focuses on recruitment, re-engagement, and immediate needs assistance, serving as a vital connection between the community and PCM services.

Authority and Independence
The Engagement Specialist works under general supervision and exercises independent judgment within established policies, procedures, and grant requirements. The position requires maintaining confidentiality, balancing supervisory responsibilities with direct program oversight, and managing outreach, engagement, and coordination activities with professionalism and cultural humility.

Minimum Qualifications

Education and Experience

• Associates degree OR Diploma/GED with 1 year experience. Qualifying experience includes work/volunteer service in non-profit social service or healthcare agency providing direct client services to diverse populations (e.g., people who use drugs (PWUD), justice involved individuals, those with mental health diagnoses, etc.).
• Outreach, case management and/or healthcare experience preferred.
• Lived Experience of homelessness, substance use, or justice-involvement. BIPOC candidates are encouraged to apply.

Skills and Competencies

• Fluency in both Spanish and English preferred.
• Computer skills and proficiency in Microsoft Office are a must; Electronic Health Records systems experience preferred.
• Sensitivity to HIV, chronic illness, substance abuse issues and a strong commitment to the mission, vision, and values of ACR Health are essential.

Other Requirements

• Successful completion of required background screenings, including Medicaid/OMIG checks.
• Ability to work occasional evenings and weekends for workshops, conferences, and seminars.

Primary Responsibilities

• Incorporate best practices regarding confidentiality into all job duties and communications in accordance with Article 27-F HIV Confidentiality, 42 CFR substance use confidentiality, and HIPAA privacy regulatory requirements.
• Conduct street-based and community outreach to engage, recruit, and re-engage priority population members into services.
• Offer short-term case support including treatment readiness assessments, referrals, and linkages to harm reduction services, MOUD providers, mental health support, primary care, housing, and insurance navigation.
• Provide basic needs support, including escorting participants to access services (e.g., food, hygiene supplies, clothing, shelter, transportation assistance).
• Support HIV/HCV/STI testing and linkage to treatment, in collaboration with the harm reduction and clinical teams.
• Assist with the distribution of harm reduction supplies including naloxone, wound kits, hygiene items, and safer use materials.
• Participate in internal case conferences with the Prevention Care Manager and relevant partners to coordinate and support client care.
• Maintain accurate notes of client encounters in AIRS and other designated systems.
• Assist with the general work of the department, including special projects and general agency programs/initiatives.
• Participate in appropriate and applicable training/professional development opportunities for a minimum of 24 hours of curriculum-based training annually.
• Participate as a culturally competent member of the department and agency.
• Maintain confidentiality of all agency clients as well as other organizational components.
• Work in a cooperative, collegial style with all other organizational personnel.
• Perform other duties assigned by the program coordinator, Harm Reduction Program Manager, Director of Harm Reduction Services, Chief Program Officer and/or Chief Executive Officer.

Benefits

Benefits eligibility varies based on employment status and hours worked and may include:

• Paid time off and holiday pay
• 403(b) retirement plan with agency contribution
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Disclaimer: This job description provides an overview of primary duties and responsibilities. It is not exhaustive; additional, consistent tasks may be assigned as program needs evolve.

Salary/Compensation: $23.00 - $25.00 per hour