Quick Escape

Job Title: Syringe Exchange Program (SEP) Associate

Office Location: Utica

Salary: $20.50 – $22.50 Hourly

Classification:  Hourly, Non-Exempt. Twenty-hour (20.00) week; evenings and weekends expected for outreach, tabling events, meetings, workshops, conferences, and seminars

Apply:  recruitment@acrhealth.org

 Position Summary: The SEP (Syringe Exchange Program) Associate is responsible for conducting outreach, overdose prevention, health education, HIV and hepatitis C counseling, testing and referral, distributing safer sex supplies, and distributing and exchanging harm reduction supplies for safer drug use with ACR Health syringe exchange and overdose prevention program participants. This position will provide a comprehensive system of services directly, and through referral, targeting people who use substances, their partners/family, and community members at high risk. The SEP Associate is expected to perform to the highest quality and provide appropriate, participant-centered HIV, viral hepatitis, and overdose prevention interventions and services.  Applicants with lived experience are encouraged to apply.

 MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

  1. High School Diploma or GED and/or one (1) year of experience working in social service/health care agency providing direct client related services to diverse populations (e.g., persons of color, MSM, substance users, mentally ill, etc.).
  2. Must have access to a reliable automobile with insurance and a valid NYS driver’s license that will pass DMV screening is required for necessary travel.
  3. Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to connect with diverse populations.
  4. Ability to write case file notes in format as directed.
  5. Strong crisis intervention and de-escalation skills.
  6. Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Office suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, SharePoint, etc.).
  7. Dependable, able to work under pressure, receptive to change, and willing to learn.
  8. Demonstrated ability to work productively, both independently and as part of a team
  9. Understanding of the stigma surrounding substance use and a commitment to an empathetic and non-judgmental approach.
  10. Experience delivering stigma-free, non-judgmental, and culturally competent services.
  11. Sensitivity to HIV/AIDS, chronic illness, LGTBQ issues and the ability to demonstrate a steadfast understanding of, and commitment to, the mission, vision, and values of ACR Health are essential.

 PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:

  1. Incorporate best practices regarding confidentiality into all job duties and communications in accordance with Article 27-F and HIPAA, ACR Health policies and procedures and other applicable regulations.  Protect agency data in accordance with confidentiality procedures and protocols.  Observe and abide by the HIV Confidentiality Law and HIPAA.
  2. Provide the direct provision of HIV/STD/hepatitis prevention interventions to the target population(s) outlined in assigned program(s) work plan(s).
  3. Promotion of access to sterile injection equipment and safe sharps disposal
  4. Recruitment of peer educators and clients for various program(s) services.
  5. Maintain accurate client and service records in accordance with the Syringe Exchange department’s policies and procedures.
  6. Complete accurate monthly, quarterly and/or annual report(s) within agency and departmental guidelines.
  7. Be present in Oneida, Herkimer, and Madison Counties networking with providers, providing outreach services in the community and facilitating educational lectures/presentations.
  8. Identify and develop networking relationships with community-based organizations.
  9. Assist with the general work of the Harm Reduction department, including special projects and general agency programs/initiatives.
  10. Participate in drug checking initiative, using immunoassay test strips, FTIR technology, and the UNC Laboratory.
  11. Participate in appropriate and applicable training/professional development opportunities for a minimum of 24 hours of curriculum-based training annually.
  12. Participate as a culturally competent member of the Harm Reduction Services department and agency, which includes having the capacity to function effectively as an individual within the context of cultural beliefs, behaviors, and needs presented by consumers and their communities.
  13. Maintain confidentiality of all agency clients as well as other appropriate organizational components.
  14. Maintain all agency and program property/equipment in good standards. Cooperate with the IT department for routine security maintenance of equipment(s).
  15. Perform daily checks of agency vehicles, ensuring its safety and sufficient fuel.
  16. Work in a cooperative, collegial style with all other organizational personnel. Conduct oneself in a professional manner as an agency employee and representative.
  17. Perform other duties as assigned by the Manager/Director of Harm Reduction Services Department, Chief Officers and/or Chief Executive Officer.