Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Counselor

McAlister Institute
(619) 442-0277
https://mcalisterinc.org

Post Date: 12/12/2025
Title: SUD Counselor
Status: Minimum 40 hours Week
Benefits: Excellent Benefits Included
Hourly Rate: $21 - $30

Location: Multiple Sites (San Diego - Central / South Counties)

Job Summary:

We are seeking a compassionate and dedicated Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Counselor to join our McAlister team. The ideal candidate will have experience working with diverse populations in various settings such as outpatient programs, residential facilities, and/or other treatment facilities. As a SUD Counselor, you will be reporting to the site Program Manager and will be responsible for providing individual and group counseling, developing treatment plans, and supporting clients through their recovery journey.

Key Responsibilities:

• Uphold and promote the mission, philosophy, values, and direction of McAlister Institute.
• Maintain an active caseload of clients, providing individual and group counseling in adult and/or teen programs.
• Conduct comprehensive, individualized screening and assessments, including the ASI and ASAM PCC to determine the needs of clients and develop individualized treatment plans.
• Facilitate evidence-based, culturally competent, trauma-informed treatment programs and interventions tailored to the specific needs of the population served.
• Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team including social workers, therapists, case managers, and medical professionals.
• Educate clients and their families about the recovery process and available resources.
• Coordinate with community resources and provide referrals when necessary.
• Perform other assigned duties as needed.

Qualifications:

• Certified or Registered SUD Counselor (CAADE, CADTP, or equivalent required).
• Minimum of two years’ experience in behavioral health services.
• Experience working with adult and/or teenage populations in a counseling or therapeutic setting.
• Demonstrated success working with the unique needs of clients referred through agencies such as the Probation Department, Child Welfare Services, Dependency Drug Court, and the criminal justice system preferred.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Demonstrated empathy for, and knowledge of the needs of clients with co-occurring conditions.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Knowledge of evidence-based practices in substance use treatment.
• Understanding of trauma-informed care and the ability to apply it in counseling.
• Proficiency in maintaining confidential client records and case documentation.
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred.
• Compliance with all agency and contract requirements related to trainings, public health, certifications, and reporting.
• Ability to pass all pre-employment screening, including references, education verification, a criminal background check with at least one year clear of probation or parole, a drug test, and a negative TB test.
• Must have reliable transportation.

Equal Opportunity Employer:

McAlister Institute is committed to creating a diverse environment and we are proud to be an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or veteran status.

How to Apply:

Please submit your resume detailing your experience and interest in working with either adult and/or teen populations in the field of substance use disorder treatment. We look forward to reviewing your application!

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $21.00 - $30.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 403(b)
• 403(b) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Retirement plan

Application Question(s):

• Are you registered with an AOD agency? (CCAPP, CADTP, or equivalent)
• Which of the following areas in San Diego are you closest to? Central, East, or South counties?

Language:

• Spanish (Preferred)

Shift availability:

• Day Shift (Preferred)
• Night Shift (Preferred)
• Overnight Shift (Preferred)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $21 - $30