Harm Reduction Specialist

Hyacinth Foundation; Trenton (NJ); On-site; USD 42,000 - 66,000; Full time

Job summary

Hyacinth Foundation is seeking a Harm Reduction Specialist in Trenton, NJ to support the Syringe Access Program for Mercer County. The role involves mobile outreach, education, referrals to health and treatment services, and data recording in NJHIV databases.

Ideal candidates have a Bachelor's degree with relevant HIV/AIDS/education experience, strong communication skills, and a commitment to harm reduction. Bilingual Spanish is a plus; a valid driver’s license is required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree plus 1 year HIV/AIDS, education or related field experience.
• Proficiency in written and verbal communications.
• Valid driver's license with an insurable abstract.
• Ability to work with people from diverse backgrounds.
• Fluency in Spanish is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Drive mobile van to Mercer County locations as scheduled.
• Educate clients on harm reduction and provide referrals.
• Document referrals and track outcomes in NJHIV database.
• Prepare monthly reports and maintain client case records.
• Ensure confidentiality of all records.

Skills

Fluency in Spanish

Written and verbal communication

Diversity experience

Commitment to Hyacinth philosophy

Valid driver’s license

Education

Bachelor's degree + 1 year HIV/AIDS/education or related field

Job description

Harm Reduction Specialist

Trenton, NJ

Description

Under the supervision of the Syringe Access Manager, performs duties relating to the development and implementation of the Syringe Access Program – Mercer County, and performs assigned duties relating to the implementation and evaluation of Outreach Services.

Duties

• Drive mobile van to specific locations in Mercer County as scheduled.
• Ensure mobile van is properly stocked with supplies daily.
• Conduct an assessment of need, which includes type of drug use and number of injections daily/weekly.
• Complete and maintain data collection as required.
• Network with community providers and coordinate service delivery.
• Provide education on proper syringe use and disposal/educational materials, referrals to drug treatment services, Harm Reduction Health nurse services and medical and/or mental health services.
• Track number of returned syringes and address barriers with participants.
• Provide syringes and all the other materials needed for safer injection.
• Provide information regarding transmission and treatment of HIV and other blood borne pathogens and sexually transmitted diseases.
• Conduct audits of program supplies and ensure that supplies are securely locked.
• Follow guidelines for proper medical waste disposal and protocols for blood borne pathogens.
• Conduct outreach to the substance users in high risk communities. These communities include women and men who are IDUs and those who engage in substance use.
• Street Outreach will be conducted in teams of two in identified high risk areas.
• Outreach will be provided to service providers in the area to introduce the Syringe Access Program and Harm Reduction Health services.
• Provide relevant literature to clients and members of the community. Engage in dialogue pertaining to risk behaviors, harm reduction and testing options for HIV, Hepatitis and STIs and availability of PrEP. Identify obstacles for the provision of services and assist with referrals.
• Document all referrals and track all outcomes in the Referral Log Book and NJHIV database.
• Actively seek and identify individuals or groups requiring the agency's services.
• Ensure confidentiality of all records.
• Prepare monthly reports in accordance with agency policies and procedures.
• Establish, maintain and update client case records using approved agency forms and procedures.
• Enter data into NJHIV database.
• Complete Harm Reduction Sessions with IDUs as per Attachment C.
• Document all incentives provided on Incentive Logs.

Requirements

• Attend and participate in staff meetings and special events.
• Observe established administrative procedures.
• Provide written reports as required.
• Attend and participate in staff training opportunities.
• Adhere to Hyacinth policies and procedures including Client confidentiality provisions.

Qualifications

• Commitment to Hyacinth philosophy.
• Fluency in Spanish is a plus.
• Demonstrated ability to work with people from diverse backgrounds and interests.
• Bachelor's degree plus one year experience in HIV/AIDS, education or related field; candidates without a degree but with additional relevant experience may be considered.
• Proficiency in written and verbal communications.
• Valid driver's license with an insurable abstract.

The Hyacinth AIDS Foundation is an Equal Opportunity / affirmative action employer and will consider all qualified applicants without regard to sex, race, creed, or religion, color, national origin, age, ancestry, disability, veteran, sexual orientation or marital status.