Prevention Specialist

Position Summary:

The Prevention Specialist is responsible for delivering evidence-based substance use prevention education and programming to children, adolescents, and their families in school and community settings. This role focuses on building resilience, promoting healthy decision-making, and preventing the initiation of alcohol, tobacco, and drug use among youth. The Prevention Specialist also plays a key role in community outreach, partnership-building, and promoting a culture of wellness.

Key Responsibilities:

Plan and facilitate age-appropriate, evidence-based prevention programs, workshops, and classroom presentations for students in grades K-12. Organize and participate in school assemblies, after-school activities, health fairs, and community events that promote substance use prevention. Engage youth in dialogue about peer pressure, decision-making, emotional regulation, and other protective factors. Facilitate workshops, skill-building groups, and youth activities focused on substance use prevention, resilience, and healthy decision-making. Develop and maintain collaborative relationships with school staff, parents, and community stakeholders to promote program access and success. Distribute educational materials and resources that reinforce prevention messages and provide support to youth and families. Participate in planning and executing prevention events, awareness campaigns, and outreach activities. Assist in data collection and outcome tracking for reporting and continuous quality improvement. Collaborate with local coalitions, prevention partners, and public health entities to coordinate outreach and align efforts. Maintain accurate records, attendance logs, and reports in accordance with agency and grant requirements. Stay current on trends in adolescent development, substance use, and prevention strategies. Stay current on trends in adolescent substance use, prevention science, and community health. Represent the organization in a professional, engaging, and culturally responsive manner. All other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree in psychology, social work, counseling, education, human services, or a related field (required). Minimum of one year of experience working with children, adolescents, or transition-age youth in a therapeutic, educational, or support role (preferred). Knowledge of substance use prevention strategies, adolescent development, and youth engagement best practices. Strong public speaking, group facilitation, and communication skills. Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities in a school- and community-based environment. Strong interpersonal, communication, and motivational skills. Flexibility to work afternoon, evening, and occasional weekend hours based on program needs. Must pass background checks and obtain any required school clearances. Valid driver's license, reliable transportation, and the ability to travel within the community.

Work Environment & Schedule:

This is a non-exempt, full-time position. Standard hours are Monday through Friday, 8 AM - 5 PM CST, may require evening and weekend hours for events. This position requires in-person work and is not eligible for remote or hybrid work arrangements. Work is performed in schools, community centers, and event spaces which may vary in physical accessibility. The employee may occasionally be required to lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.

Transportation Requirements:

Maintain a safe driving record and valid driver's license with personal liability insurance. Follow all agency transportation policies, including seatbelt usage, safe cellphone practices, and vehicle documentation. Immediately report any vehicle issues, accidents, or violations to appropriate personnel.

In-Service Training & Continued Education Requirements:

Participate in all required agency in-service and ADMH trainings Commitment to ongoing professional development to enhance skills and stay informed on best practices in behavioral health. Completion of onboarding and any continuing education requirements as directed by the agency or supervisor. Ongoing professional development to maintain best practices and compliance with evolving standards of care.