Frontline ED Substance Use Navigator

Ochsner Health; Chalmette (LA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 62,000; Full time

Job summary

Ochsner Health in Chalmette, LA is seeking a Substance Use Navigator to engage ED patients with substance use disorders and connect them to treatment, harm reduction, and community resources. The role emphasizes trauma‑informed, person‑centered care and rapid linkage to care in a dynamic ED setting.

The successful candidate will have at least 1 year in healthcare or related fields, ideally with lived experience, and will collaborate with ED clinicians and social services to improve patient

Qualifications

• 1 year healthcare, behavioral health, social services, community outreach, or related area.
• Personal lived experience of substance use and sustained recovery strongly encouraged; must be able to use lived experience appropriately in a professional setting.
• Experience in Emergency Department, crisis, behavioral health, addiction treatment, community outreach, peer support, or case management setting.
• Familiarity with medication‑assisted treatment referral pathways and related services.

Responsibilities

• Conduct bedside engagement of ED patients identified with substance use concerns using trauma‑informed and person‑centered approaches.
• Establish rapport and build trust with patients, including those in crisis or ambivalent about treatment.
• Perform SBIRT activities and coordinate referrals to treatment and recovery supports.
• Educate patients and families on substance use disorder, harm reduction, and available treatment options.
• Facilitate real‑time referrals and warm handoffs to MAT providers, peer support, and community resources.
• Coordinate with ED clinicians, social workers, and behavioral health teams to support care plans.

Skills

Trauma-informed care

Interpersonal skills

Motivational interviewing

Cultural responsiveness

Documentation skills

Education

High School Diploma/GED

Associate's Degree/College Diploma in Social Services/Behavioral Health or related field

Bachelor's in Social Services, Behavioral Health, Public Health, or related field

Job description

Ochsner Health in Chalmette, LA is seeking a Substance Use Navigator to engage ED patients with substance use disorders and connect them to treatment, harm reduction, and community resources. The role emphasizes trauma‑informed, person‑centered care and rapid linkage to care in a dynamic ED setting.

The successful candidate will have at least 1 year in healthcare or related fields, ideally with lived experience, and will collaborate with ED clinicians and social services to improve patient