Engagement Specialist

Location: Northern

Dept:
Harm Reduction & Prevention Services Organizational Relationship:
Reports to Outreach Coordinator

Position Summary:

The OASAS Engagement Specialist on the mobile unit conducts direct outreach to individuals affected by substance use disorders, providing motivational support and education on harm reduction. They facilitate connection and access to medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD), hepatitis C treatment, primary care, and other community resources to encourage recovery. Working in collaboration with internal teams and community partners, the specialist travels 3–4 days per week to meet clients in their environments and ensure ongoing support and linkage to care.

Minimum Qualifications

Education and Experience:

• A minimum of one year experience in a social service or healthcare environment delivering direct services to individuals who use drugs and other diverse populations, including but not limited to people of color, LGBTQI+ individuals, those facing behavioral health challenges, and those experiencing homelessness.

Skills and

Competencies:

• Awareness and sensitivity to HIV/AIDS, chronic illnesses, substance use, overdose, and LGBTQ-related concerns.
• Proven ability to deliver stigma-free, non-judgmental, culturally competent services Excellent communication and engagement skills with an ability to establish trust and rapport.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Suite applications such as Outlook, Word, Excel, Teams, SharePoint, and PowerPoint.
• Demonstrates a strong commitment to harm reduction principles and health equity, with the ability to collaborate effectively with internal teams, community partners, and referral agencies, while maintaining strict adherence to HIPAA and confidentiality standards, and upholding the mission, vision, and values of ACR Health.
• Strong organizational, documentation and data entry capabilities.
• Preferred candidates will have lived experience related to substance use, justice system involvement, and/or overdose.
• Ability to work Tuesday to Saturday schedule including evenings, weekends, and non-traditional business hours as required.

Other Requirements:

• Valid New York State driver’s license and reliable access to a vehicle with current insurance for work-related travel, training, outreach, and occasional client transport. Personal vehicle ownership is not required but consistent access is necessary
• The position requires traveling on the mobile unit 3–4 days per week to engage eligible individuals and ensure continuity of care.

Primary Responsibilities

• Incorporate best practices regarding confidentiality into all job duties and communications consistent with Article 27-F, 42 CFR, HIPAA and ACR Health’s policies and procedures as well as other applicable regulations.
• Engage individuals in community and clinical settings, including emergency rooms and outreach locations, using person-centered and non-judgmental approaches.
• Provide education on harm reduction, treatment options, and recovery resources.
• Conduct screenings, assessments, and support initial service planning.
• Facilitate referrals to medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD), treatment, primary care, and other supportive services.
• Assist clients with obtaining benefits, entitlements, and identification documents as needed.
• Maintain accurate and timely client and service records in compliance with HIPAA and agency policies.
• Complete monthly, quarterly, and annual reports within agency and departmental guidelines.
• Participate in community outreach services and collaborate with providers.
• Assist with general Harm Reduction Department operations, including special projects and agency initiatives.
• Engage in ongoing training and professional development with a minimum of 24 hours annually, functioning as a culturally…