Prevention Specialist

Job Title:  Prevention Specialist
Dept:  Prevention & Harm Reduction Services
Reports to:  Linkage Program Manager / Testing Program Manager / Director of Prevention & Harm Reduction Services
Salary Range:  $21.50 – $22.50 hourly

Please submit your resume and cover letter to recruitment@acrhealth.org

Position Summary: The Prevention Specialist designs, delivers, and evaluates community programs that promote healthy behaviors and reduce risks related to substance use, mental health, and other social issues. The role involves education, outreach, data collection, and collaboration with community partners, requiring strong communication, cultural competence, and teamwork to support diverse populations and foster safe, healthy environments.

Authority and Independence

The Prevention Specialist works under general supervision and exercises independent judgment within established policies and procedures. The position requires maintaining confidentiality, prioritizing multiple projects, and managing community outreach and client interactions with professionalism.

Minimum Qualifications

Education and Experience

• Associate degree in health, human services, or a related field; OR four years of experience working in a non-profit or social service setting providing direct services to diverse populations (e.g., persons of color, LGBTQ+, people who use drugs, or individuals with behavioral health needs); OR an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience providing stigma-free, nonjudgmental, and culturally competent services.
• Experience accurately documenting and maintaining confidential data.
• Familiarity with HIV/AIDS, sexually transmitted infections, viral hepatitis, and prevention strategies are helpful but not required.
• Commitment to ACR Health’s mission, vision, and values and sensitivity to issues related to HIV/AIDS, chronic illness, and the LGBTQ+ community.

Skills and Competencies

• Strong written, communication and documentation skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Electronic Health Record systems.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively across departments and with external community partners.
• Commitment to cultural humility and ability to work respectfully with diverse populations.

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).

Primary Responsibilities

• Maintain strict confidentiality in compliance with Article 27-F, HIPAA, and ACR Health policies.
• Provide HIV and STD screening to identify undiagnosed individuals and link them to care.
• Facilitate referrals for preventive and specialty services, including primary care, partner services, and behavioral health treatment.
• Conduct outreach to high-risk subpopulations to promote access to HIV/STD/HCV testing, counseling, and education.
• Recruit and engage participants for adherence counseling and other prevention services promoting viral suppression (U=U).
• Facilitate access to and adherence support for PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis).
• Maintain a caseload of 12–20 participants for linkage, navigation, and adherence services.
• Deliver counseling sessions that include risk assessments, risk reduction planning, and referrals to appropriate services.
• Implement designated interventions outlined in assigned work plans, including the Social Determinants of Health framework.
• Maintain accurate client and service records per department policy.
• Prepare and submit monthly, quarterly, and annual reports as required.
• Participate in community meetings, training, and professional development opportunities.
• Assist with needs assessments, network with community partners, and represent ACR Health at events and committees.
• Support department-wide projects and initiatives as requested.
• Complete a minimum of 24 hours of ongoing professional training annually.
• Work collaboratively and respectfully with all staff, representing ACR Health professionally in the community.
• Perform other duties as assigned by Program Management, Chief Program Officer and/or Chief Executive Officer.

 Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Generous paid time off and holiday pay
• Life Insurance.
• 403(b) retirement savings plan with agency contributions.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

 FLSA Status:  Non-Exempt

Location:  Syracuse Office  Hours per week:  35   Work Schedule:  Full Time in Office, occasional evenings and weekends may be required for meetings, workshops, outreach, and events.

Disclaimer: This job description provides an overview of the primary duties and responsibilities of the position. It is not an exhaustive list of all assigned tasks.  Additional responsibilities consistent with the nature and level of the role may be assigned as needed.