Prevention Specialist

Prevention Specialist

Classification:
Non Exempt (40 hours per week)

Reports to:

Director of Youth Programs

Salary: $18.50 Hourly

Summary:

The Prevention Specialist is responsible for the programmatic duties in the youth prevention programs (YPU and/or YPI) with the Department of State Health Services (HHSC) grant. Under the supervision of the Youth Programs Director and the coordination of the Prevention Coordinator.

Responsibilities:

• Provide program services to youth and the community within one or all the funded 8 Coastal Bend Counties (Aransas, Bee, Brooks, Jim Wells, Kenedy, Kleberg, Nueces, San Patricio)
• Proficient knowledge in assigned evidence-based curriculum (TGFD and/or CSBG)
• Administer assigned curriculum to fidelity within assigned participant demographics
• Conduct Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug (ATOD) positive alternative activities to youth and adults
• Develop flyers, postcards, brochures to market YPU program to the community
• Create positive alternative activities and presentations that adhere to the HHSC requirements and approved by Prevention Coordinator and/or Director
• Attend community events, school events, and health fairs to promote prevention programs
• Help organize and participate prevention programs' community events (i.e. Wild and Wacky Wednesday, Breaking the Norm, PETEY'S Back to School Bash etc.)
• Be familiar with and assist in meeting the quarterly and yearly HHSC performance goals for the assigned prevention program
• Ensure adherence to department protocols and operating procedures that align the policies and procedures of HHSC and the Coastal Bend Wellness Foundation (CBWF)
• Form collaborative partnerships with area schools, service providers and community representatives by attending community coalition meetings
• Submit weekly and monthly reports to the Prevention Coordinator and Director
• Attend agency, department, and program staff meetings
• Assist in obtaining match funding
• Be familiar with CBWF programs/services for community promotion
• Be familiar with all CSAP strategies to support all department prevention programs
• Provide prevention presentations on the State's four priorities (underage alcohol use, tobacco and nicotine products, marijuana and other cannabinoids, and prescription drug misuse)
• Other duties as assigned

Requirements

Qualifications:

• A preferred Bachelor's Degree in Psychology, Social work, Sociology, Communication, or other human services field. Certified Prevention Specialist Certificate (must be willing to earn within 20 months of employment).
• Position requires the employee be insurable, have reliable transportation, and have a valid driver's license. Personal vehicle will be used 75% of the time with mileage reimbursement
• A minimum of one year relevant experience or sufficient knowledge working with "high risk" community. Working knowledge of ATOD, HIV/AIDS, other pertinent subject areas, and knowledge of targeted population preferred.
• Bilingual (English & Spanish) preferred.

Experience/Skills/Knowledge:

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to work effectively with a wide range of populations in a diverse community.
• Knowledge of community agencies and resources.
• Skill in use of personal computers and related software applications, including Microsoft Office and e-mail.
• Good communication skills, such as listening well, and using language appropriately.
• Collaborate effectively with community partners throughout service delivery area

Physical Requirements:

• Available to work flexible schedule which may include some nights and/or weekends.
• Work will be performed primarily in offices, public buildings, schools, churches, medical facilities, family homes and automobiles that will vary considerably with regard to the extent of heating, cooling, or physical comforts/protections.
• Position could require long hours of standing or sitting at a computer work station.
• Must be able to lift at least 25lbs and be able to set up tables, chairs, and pop canopies for events in addition to moving equipment needed for specific job assignments.
• May encounter architectural barriers (including stairs), animals not on a leash unsanitary living conditions, extreme heat or cold and contagious disease.