Substance Abuse Counselor II

SUBSTANCE ABUSE COUNSELOR II

I. GENERAL STATEMENT OF DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

To provide inmates/probationers/parolees with education and information about substance abuse and dependence.

II. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

a. To provide drug and alcohol education for inmates

b. To provide education in the areas of stress management, anger management and coping skills

c. To teach Relapse Prevention I and Relapse Prevention II programs

d. To educate inmates about high risk behaviors with the goal of reducing the spread of AIDS, Hepatitis A, B and C, and other sexually transmitted diseases

e. To develop an individualized aftercare plan which identifies problems requiring continuing treatment and service to help the inmate remain drug-free

f. To prepare accurately and maintain as current all required reports and records

g. To provide regular formal individual counseling services to participants including individual treatment planning

h. To maintain clinical charts appropriately and ensure progress notes are well documented

i. To foster an atmosphere of cooperation between inmates and staff

j. To observe conduct and behavior of inmates and to report any unusual occurrences to supervisor

k. To work harmoniously, cooperatively and courteously with others at all times

l. To ensure that inmates sign-in on the required attendance sheet

m. To conduct classes in a professional manner and use only approved materials

n. To observe inmates general condition and refer inmates to the appropriate supportive services i.e. medical, mental health, social services

o. To perform other duties as assigned

p. To report for work on time and appropriately attired

q. To maintain regular attendance

[1] The essential functions or duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position.

Qualifications

III. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

A.  Education and Experience:

Minimum of two (2) years relevant experience.

B.  Special Requirements:

None.

C.  Knowledge, Ability and Skill:

• Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, in writing and orally

• Ability to maintain accurate and detailed records

• Ability to talk to others to effectively convey information

• Ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through verbal and written communication

• Working skill in the use of personal computers, particularly word processing

• Working knowledge of support agencies such as Alcoholics Anonymous, etc.

• Working knowledge in the effects of drugs and alcohol

D.    Physical Qualifications:  
  

• Minimal physical effort demanded when performing functions under typical clinical setting.

• Frequently required to sit, talk and hear.

• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision and the ability to adjust focus.

IV. JOB ENVIRONMENT:

Clinical setting in prison environment.

V. SUPERVISION RECEIVED:

General supervision by Director of Substance Abuse

VI. SUPERVISION EXERCISED:

None.

Official Title: Sheriff Worcester Prof Grd 19

Primary Location

United States-Massachusetts-West Boylston-5 Paul X Tivnan

Job

Direct Care

Agency

Sheriff's Dept Worcester

Schedule

Full-time

Shift

Day

Job Posting

Sep 22, 2026, 4:57:32 PM

Number of Openings

1

Salary

61,892.88 - 61,892.88 Yearly

If you have Diversity, Affirmative Action or Equal Employment Opportunity questions or need a Reasonable Accommodation, please contact Diversity Officer / ADA Coordinator: Dianne Jordan - 508-854-1800

Potentially Eligible for a Hybrid Work Schedule: No