Harm Reduction & Health Access Specialist

AIDS Center of Queens County, Inc.; New York (NY); On-site; USD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

The AIDS Center of Queens County, Inc. seeks a full-time Supportive Services Specialist to provide syringe exchange and HIV/HCV testing across Queens. You will link clients to medical and social services, conduct testing and counseling, and educate on harm reduction while maintaining documentation.

This role supports vulnerable populations, requires flexibility for some evenings and holidays, and offers comprehensive benefits. Two sites: Richmond Hill and Woodside, NY.

Qualifications

• Experience in health education and disease prevention.
• Knowledge of HIV/AIDS and other blood-borne pathogens, drug use, and mental health.
• Ability to relate to active drug users respectfully and without judgment.
• Willingness to work some evenings and occasional holiday hours.
• Current NYS driver’s license (preferred) in good standing.
• Culturally competent and able to work with diverse gender identities and sexual orientations.

Responsibilities

• Provide and document syringe exchange transactions during SEP hours at various sites.
• Link clients to medical, behavioral health, harm reduction, and supportive services.
• Assess the needs of participants, refer, advocate, and coordinate as needed.
• Present harm reduction information (safer shooting techniques, overdose prevention, and vein care) with injectors in various settings.
• Provide rapid HIV/HCV testing at syringe exchange sites (including mobile units) during all SEP hours.
• Conduct pre- and post-test counseling.
• Maintain HIV/HCV testing supplies and logs.
• Conduct confirmatory tests for preliminary positives.
• Conduct overdose prevention training and Naloxone distribution.
• Maintain a friendly, welcoming atmosphere at syringe exchange locations, including mediation when needed.
• Complete all required program and agency documentation.
• Schedule timely disposal of syringes.
• Participate in monthly staff meetings.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Harm Reduction Supportive Services Program Coordinator and/or the Director of Harm Reduction.

Skills

Health education

Disease prevention

HIV/AIDS knowledge

Cultural competency

Non-judgmental communication

Driver's license

Job description

The AIDS Center of Queens County, Inc. seeks a full-time Supportive Services Specialist to provide syringe exchange and HIV/HCV testing across Queens. You will link clients to medical and social services, conduct testing and counseling, and educate on harm reduction while maintaining documentation.

This role supports vulnerable populations, requires flexibility for some evenings and holidays, and offers comprehensive benefits. Two sites: Richmond Hill and Woodside, NY.