What are the responsibilities and job description for the CHRONIC DISEASE PREVENTION SPECIALIST, DRUG CHECKING TECHNICIAN position at City of Portland, Maine?
Chronic Disease Prevention Specialist-Drug Checking Technician
Health & Human Services Department - Public Health Division
About the City of Portland Health & Human Services:
The Health & Human Services Department consists of four unique divisions; Barron Center, Elder Affairs, Public Health, and Social Services. We strive to enhance the health and well-being of the residents of Portland in collaboration with our community, state, and federal partners. Learn more about HHS and each of these divisions!
Job Summary:
The Public Health Division is seeking a qualified individual for a position working as a Drug Checking Technician in the Harm Reduction Services Program. This position is designed to provide point-of-care drug checking services using Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy alongside immunoassay test strips. Responsibilities will also include communication of results, providing harm reduction education, and offering relevant referrals to service participants. Training in operation of the FTIR will be provided on site. This position will work collaboratively with organization staff to provide comprehensive and wrap-around substance use services. This role will contribute to reducing drug-related harm, increasing community knowledge, and supporting individuals in achieving their health goals.
Duties & Responsibilities:
- Establish and maintain effective working relationships with a diverse group of community representatives.
- Conduct point-of-care drug checking services on site in a clinical setting.
- Provide harm reduction education to clients, staff and community members.
- Connect clients with referrals to appropriate services.
- Collect and analyze public health data.
Required Skills & Experience:
- Bachelor’s degree in a public health-related field or an equivalent combination of experience, education, and training.
- Experience in community wide chronic disease prevention.
- Excellent interpersonal skills.
- Ability to communicate effectively using oral and written skills.
- Proven experience using computers and demonstrated ability to learn Google Suite products.
- Demonstrated ability to work with diverse populations.
- Ability to travel throughout Portland using a personal vehicle.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience working in the fields of harm reduction, overdose prevention, substance use prevention and/or treatment.
Expected Hours/Schedule:
37.5 Hours/week Monday-Friday; 8:00 am-4:30 pm.
Applications accepted until October 23rd, 2026.
Offers of employment are contingent upon the completion of a satisfactory criminal background check.
Salary & Benefits:
This is a union position, Protech Grade 7, with a starting pay range of $31.26-$34.15, based on relevant years of experience and education.
For more information about compensation with the City of Portland, please refer to the union specific pay plans and agreements.
The City of Portland prides itself on its outstanding benefits and collegial and mission-driven work environment.
City benefits include:
- Free employee health insurance with the completion of wellness incentives
- Thirteen paid holidays
- Sick, vacation, and personal leave
- Life, dental, vision and income protection insurances
- Choice of retirement plans, including a pension plan
- Use of City recreation facilities
- Fitness Reimbursement
- Discount on professional development programs through USM and Thomas College
If you have any questions or need assistance with the application, please email Human Resources at jobs@portlandmaine.gov or call 207-874-8624.
The City of Portland believes that to do our best work, our employees need to reflect the diverse, vibrant community we serve. We are an equal opportunity employer and are committed to celebrating all dimensions of diversity in the workplace. Applicants are considered without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other applicable legally protected characteristics. If you need to request a reasonable accommodation, please call 207-874-8624 or email hrinfo@portlandmaine.gov.
Type : INTERNAL & EXTERNAL
Group : PROTECH
Job Family : PUBLIC HEALTH
Posting Start : 10/09/2026
Posting End : 10/23/2026
Details : Job Description
Salary : $31 - $34