Harm Reduction Outreach Specialist (Extended Temporary Employment) (Multiple)
University of Arizona, Phoenix, Arizona, United States, 85003
Position Highlights
The Harm Reduction Outreach Specialist will work to minimize the negative consequences associated with substance use and other high-risk behaviors. They provide support, education, and resources to individuals, often in community settings, without requiring abstinence. This role focuses on meeting people "where they are" and promoting safety, health, and well-being. Drawing on lived experience and strong community ties, the specialist works collaboratively with peer support specialists and the harm reduction coordinator to build rapport and provide direct services, education, and support. This is a frontline position ideal for someone who is compassionate, resourceful, and committed to reducing health disparities among marginalized communities. This is an Extended Temporary Employment (ETE) position.
Outstanding UA benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; UA/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans; access to UA recreation and cultural activities; and more! The University of Arizona has been recognized for its innovative work‑life programs. For more information about working at the University of Arizona and relocation services, please visit the University website.
Duties & Responsibilities
Providing direct services including distributing harm reduction supplies such as Naloxone, clean syringes, and hygiene items; building trust and rapport by establishing a non‑judgmental and supportive relationship with individuals; engaging with the community in various settings such as drop‑in centers, syringe exchange programs, or on the streets.
Offering education and support, educating individuals about safer drug use practices, overdose prevention, and other relevant topics; leading educational workshops in clinical and community settings.
Connecting individuals with resources, linking clients to healthcare, social services, substance use treatment, and other support systems; promoting harm reduction principles in reducing stigma and promoting a person‑centered approach to care.
Documenting activities and outcomes, maintaining accurate records of outreach efforts and client interactions.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Demonstrated cultural competence and trauma‑informed care, with sensitivity to the needs and experiences of individuals from all backgrounds.
Knowledge of community resources, including behavioral health, housing, harm reduction, and social services within the region.
High knowledge of community resources in Maricopa County.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to actively listen, build trust, and maintain supportive, nonjudgmental relationships.
Skilled in de‑escalation and crisis response, applying trauma‑informed strategies to manage high‑stress or emotionally charged situations.
Understanding of public health principles, including harm reduction, mental health promotion, and barriers to care.
Ability to work effectively as part of an interdisciplinary team and contribute to collective goals.
Basic proficiency with technology, including email, data entry systems, and spreadsheets, to accurately record and report service connections.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor's degree or equivalent advanced learning attained through professional level experience required.
3 years of relevant work experience, or equivalent combination of education and work experience.
Ability to travel and work mornings, evenings, and weekends is required.
Preferred Qualifications
Lived experience preferred.
Experience working with various populations.
Employment Details FLSA: Exempt
Full Time: Yes
Number of Hours Worked per Week: 40
Job FTE: 1.0
Work Calendar: Fiscal
Job Category: Outreach and Community Engagement
Benefits Eligible: Yes - Full Benefits
Rate of Pay: $53,039 - $66,299
Compensation Type: salary at 1.0 full‑time equivalency (FTE)
Grade: 7
Career Stream and Level: PC2
Job Family: Cmty & Health Systems
Job Function: Outreach & Community Engage
Type of criminal background check required: Name‑based criminal background check (non‑security sensitive)
Number of Vacancies: 2
Contact Information for Candidates: Rodrigo Valenzuela‑Cordova | ravalenzuela@arizona.edu
Open Date: 9/30/2025
Open Until Filled: Yes
Documents Needed to Apply: Resume and Cover Letter
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Outstanding UA benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; UA/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans; access to UA recreation and cultural activities; and more! The University of Arizona has been recognized for its innovative work‑life programs. For more information about working at the University of Arizona and relocation services, please visit the University website.
Duties & Responsibilities
Providing direct services including distributing harm reduction supplies such as Naloxone, clean syringes, and hygiene items; building trust and rapport by establishing a non‑judgmental and supportive relationship with individuals; engaging with the community in various settings such as drop‑in centers, syringe exchange programs, or on the streets.
Offering education and support, educating individuals about safer drug use practices, overdose prevention, and other relevant topics; leading educational workshops in clinical and community settings.
Connecting individuals with resources, linking clients to healthcare, social services, substance use treatment, and other support systems; promoting harm reduction principles in reducing stigma and promoting a person‑centered approach to care.
Documenting activities and outcomes, maintaining accurate records of outreach efforts and client interactions.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Demonstrated cultural competence and trauma‑informed care, with sensitivity to the needs and experiences of individuals from all backgrounds.
Knowledge of community resources, including behavioral health, housing, harm reduction, and social services within the region.
High knowledge of community resources in Maricopa County.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to actively listen, build trust, and maintain supportive, nonjudgmental relationships.
Skilled in de‑escalation and crisis response, applying trauma‑informed strategies to manage high‑stress or emotionally charged situations.
Understanding of public health principles, including harm reduction, mental health promotion, and barriers to care.
Ability to work effectively as part of an interdisciplinary team and contribute to collective goals.
Basic proficiency with technology, including email, data entry systems, and spreadsheets, to accurately record and report service connections.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor's degree or equivalent advanced learning attained through professional level experience required.
3 years of relevant work experience, or equivalent combination of education and work experience.
Ability to travel and work mornings, evenings, and weekends is required.
Preferred Qualifications
Lived experience preferred.
Experience working with various populations.
Employment Details FLSA: Exempt
Full Time: Yes
Number of Hours Worked per Week: 40
Job FTE: 1.0
Work Calendar: Fiscal
Job Category: Outreach and Community Engagement
Benefits Eligible: Yes - Full Benefits
Rate of Pay: $53,039 - $66,299
Compensation Type: salary at 1.0 full‑time equivalency (FTE)
Grade: 7
Career Stream and Level: PC2
Job Family: Cmty & Health Systems
Job Function: Outreach & Community Engage
Type of criminal background check required: Name‑based criminal background check (non‑security sensitive)
Number of Vacancies: 2
Contact Information for Candidates: Rodrigo Valenzuela‑Cordova | ravalenzuela@arizona.edu
Open Date: 9/30/2025
Open Until Filled: Yes
Documents Needed to Apply: Resume and Cover Letter
#J-18808-Ljbffr