Intake Specialist-Substance Use Disorder Residential

Summary

This full‑time position is responsible for performing clinical assessments to determine the appropriate level of care for individuals seeking treatment for substance use disorder and other co‑existing conditions. The role manages access into SUD services, using the Electronic Health Record (Avatar) and ARMS, and works with a team of managers and counselors to implement, maintain, and evaluate evidence‑based approaches. The position provides consistent support for participants’ successful entry into treatment services.

• Support the Encompass Substance Use Disorder facilities in Santa Cruz and Watsonville.
• Provide screening, assessment, and intake using ASAM ALOC.
• Oversee referral flow and all access processes into SUD services.
• Respond to and document program and participant issues in a clear and timely manner.
• Perform administrative and clerical duties necessary to the position.
• Provide health and Medi‑Cal outreach, eligibility, access assistance, planning, and indirect coordination activities.
• Perform outreach activities related to intake services for Encompass SUD programs as needed.
• Provide support and redirection to participants as needed.
• Provide transportation to intake appointments and other necessary coordinated services.
• Screen and assess individuals who are currently incarcerated.

• Experience working with co‑existing conditions (SUD and mental health).
• Experience performing assessments, writing clinical summaries, and treatment plans.
• Demonstrated skills and understanding of effective treatment of addiction and recovery.
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred.
• In‑depth understanding of the ASAM assessment and corresponding Level of Care.
• Commitment to the empowerment of low‑income, incarcerated persons from diverse backgrounds.
• Background and understanding of trauma‑informed care preferred.
• Background and understanding of Motivational Interviewing preferred.
• Computer literacy in Microsoft Word, Outlook, Avatar, ARMS, Excel (training available).
• Demonstrated ability to organize and prioritize activities.
• Demonstrated problem‑solving, conflict resolution, and crisis intervention skills.
• Demonstrated ability to use good judgment and decision‑making.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
• Organizational ability to keep accurate records.
• Demonstrated ability to maintain clear professional and personal boundaries.

We prioritize the well‑being of our team as much as the community we serve. Our comprehensive health benefits reflect this commitment. We offer full‑time employees medical and dental insurance plans that ensure peace of mind for themselves and their families. We also provide acupuncture and chiropractic services, embracing a holistic approach to health that aligns with our values of care and compassion.

Our team’s future matters just as much as the present. That’s why we offer a 403(b) retirement plan, providing a foundation for a secure retirement. We recognize the need for work‑life balance, so Encompass offers a competitive package of 17 vacation days, 12 sick days, and 14 additional paid holidays, with benefits pro‑rated for part‑time positions.

At Encompass Community Services we provide the community with a wide range of services related to family and social well‑being, early childhood education, behavioral health, housing, and more. Every day through these services we work to make health, education, and housing more equitable for all people in Santa Cruz County. For more than 50 years our work has touched generations by helping people have access to education, rebuild relationships, restore their health, and regain dignity.