Addiction Recovery Assistant (ARA)

Behavioral Health / Addiction Recovery
Location: Philadelphia PA
Department: Behavioral Health
Job Type: Part Time Per Diem
Schedule: Varies. Must be available for assigned shifts as needed
Starting Pay: $19.13 per hour
Bilingual Requirement: English and Spanish REQUIRED

Overview

The Behavioral Wellness Center at Girard is a trusted provider of behavioral health and addiction recovery services in Philadelphia. We deliver evidence based culturally and spiritually responsive care through inpatient and outpatient programs helping individuals achieve long term wellness and recovery.

We are seeking dependable committed and compassionate bilingual Addiction Recovery Assistants to join our Behavioral Health team. Applicants must be fluent in English and Spanish to support communication with clients and staff. This role is ideal for individuals who are passionate about supporting clients in recovery maintaining structure on the unit and creating a safe therapeutic environment where clients can progress toward stability and sobriety.

Important: All new hires must be able to attend a mandatory 5-day orientation Monday through Friday 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM before starting their schedule. Attendance is required for employment.

Responsibilities

• Provide direct care daily engagement and support to clients in the Residential Recovery Program
• Observe document and report client behaviors using paper and electronic charting
• Complete vital signs accu checks and other clinical tasks as assigned
• Conduct admission searches room checks and personal effects inventories
• Monitor urine collections and inspect packages brought onto the unit
• Participate in and assist with group activities and community engagement
• Escort clients to medical legal and recreational appointments
• Assist with serving meals and maintaining overall unit order
• Provide comprehensive shift reports and update required communication logs
• Support clients with redirection and de escalation techniques when needed
• Maintain cleanliness and ensure the unit environment meets safety expectations
• Attend required meetings and perform additional duties as assigned

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required
• Working knowledge of 12 Step Recovery Programs
• Twelve college credits in Behavioral Health or Human Services preferred
• First Aid and CPR certification required within 30 days of hire
• Lived experience in recovery preferred
• Experience taking vital signs is a plus
• Bilingual English and Spanish REQUIRED for this position
• Must be able to communicate effectively with clients and staff in both languages

Work Environment

This role requires frequent standing walking bending lifting and direct client interaction. ARAs work in client areas and may encounter individuals who are agitated or disoriented. Outdoor escorts and travel may be required. Knowledge of infection control hospital safety and de-escalation practices is essential.

Why Join Us

The Behavioral Wellness Center at Girard provides evidence based behavioral health services in a spiritually and culturally responsive manner. Our mission is to empower individuals toward recovery restoration and long-term wellness. We value professionalism integrity choice hope and respect. Joining our team means contributing to meaningful work that directly supports individuals on their path to recovery.

Pre-Employment and Workplace Policy

Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of all pre-employment requirements including a physical examination background check and drug screening. The Behavioral Wellness Center at Girard is a Drug Free Workplace and all employees are expected to comply with workplace policies and standards of conduct.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The Behavioral Wellness Center at Girard is an equal opportunity employer committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply.