What are the responsibilities and job description for the Prevention Specialist position at McKinley County, NM?
Description
FOR BEST CONSIDERATION APPLY BY APRIL 14, 2026
***A RESUME WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED IN LIEU OF A COMPLETED APPLICATION
Definition: The purpose of this position is to raise awareness on alcohol misuse and DWI-related issues, problems, and solutions to the community of McKinley County. Works under the direct supervision of the DWI Coordinator with high latitude for the use of innovative and independent judgment. Organizes and participates in DWI public relations; performs public speaking assignments to schools (K-12), community, and chapter houses within McKinley County; organizes evidence-based prevention education events, delivers public addresses to educate and solicit support; conducts site visits at schools to educate students and faculty. Delivers evidence-based curriculum to youth throughout the McKinley County K-12 school system; Creates partnerships with local organizations to collaborate on prevention events and activities including outreach.
Essential Job Functions: The list that follows is not intended as a comprehensive list; it is intended to provide a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities. Incumbent may not be required to perform all duties and may be required to perform additional position-related tasks.
- Coordinates and collaborates with partner agencies and organizations to build support and implement evidence-based prevention strategies aimed at reducing alcohol misuse and DWI-related issues.
- Conducts quarterly visits to all McKinley County chapter houses and participates in summer youth programs to deliver prevention education on alcohol misuse and on the consequences of driving while intoxicated.
- Assists program evaluator in the development and implementation of evidence-based prevention activities for the program.
- Develops and manages the program’s social media platforms to provide clear, user-friendly access to event schedules, contact information, resources, and to provide prevention messaging for the public.
- Provides technical assistance regarding alcohol misuse and DWI to schools and community programs (e.g., health classes, assemblies).
- Develops prevention education materials using various platforms and tools, such as PowerPoint, Canva, and other digital or print outlets.
- Assists with researching and tracking local community trends related to alcohol misuse and DWI, staying up to date on current data, and sharing findings with key stakeholders.
- Maintains accurate program records and documentation to ensure compliance with LDWI grant reporting requirements, including monthly, quarterly, and final reports.
Minimum Qualifications:
- A combination of 2-4 years of experience or education in the areas of Criminal Justice, Law Enforcement, Social Work, Public Health or related field.
- Certified Prevention Specialist or the ability to obtain Certification with the New Mexico Credentialing Board within twenty-four (24) months of hire date.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, Law Enforcement, Social Work, Public Health, or related field.
- Certified Prevention Specialist
- Bilingual (Navajo and/or Spanish).
- Experience working in a county/local government environment.
- Experience working in a broad diverse culture.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
- Knowledge of HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability, and Accountability Act).
- Skill in coordinating work with a multi-disciplinary team of professionals; communicate ideas and instructions clearly and concisely; review technical data and prepare technical reports.
- Ability to interpret and apply rules, regulations, policies and procedures; prepare and maintain accurate records, files and reports.
- Skill in problem-solving techniques; the use of computers and related equipment in a stand-alone or local network environment.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills, and the ability to multi-task effectively to meet deadlines with a wide range of constituencies in a diverse community.
- Ability to plan and direct own work activities in an efficient manner.
- Ability to use independent judgment and to manage and impart program information.
- Ability to work closely with program evaluator to develop quarterly themes and track progress using data.
- Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
Supervisory Controls: The incumbent performs under the administrative supervision of the DWI Coordinator and Community Services Director.
Certificates and Licenses: Must have or be able to obtain a New Mexico State Driver’s License; must be insurable for liability purposes; and the ability to possess a New Mexico Driver’s License within six (6) months of hire date.
Conditions of Employment: May be required to pass a post offer-of employment physical examination. Final offer of employment is contingent upon outcome of background and reference checks.
Disclaimer: Nothing in this job description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.