JRS Diversion Specialist

Human Services Administration Organization; Pittsburgh (Allegheny County); Hybrid; USD 50,000 - 54,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Mileage reimbursement

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Paid time off

Job summary

The JRS Diversion Specialist position with Human Services Administration Organization (HSAO) in Pittsburgh, PA, is a full-time role (40 hours/week) offering a salary of $24.52 per hour (~$51,000 annually). The role focuses on providing case management and support to individuals in Allegheny County who encounter the criminal justice system, aiming to divert them from incarceration.

You will collaborate with jail, courts, and service providers, develop personalized service plans, coordinate

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in social work or related field; master’s preferred.
• Two years of case management or behavioral health experience.
• Knowledge of mental health and addiction treatment principles.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Excellent communication and cultural competence.

Responsibilities

• Serve as primary contact and advocate for individuals and families, ensuring services align with their needs and goals.
• Develop individualized service plans based on assessments and update regularly.
• Provide face-to-face client support, meeting monthly or as needed.
• Assist clients in navigating the criminal justice system, court proceedings, and treatment services.
• Coordinate with behavioral health providers to ensure access to mental health, drug, and alcohol services and other supports.
• Maintain accurate records in electronic health records and ensure HIPAA compliance.

Skills

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Cultural competence

Independent work

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work, Psychology, Education, Nursing, Criminal Justice, or related field

Master’s Degree preferred

Tools

Electronic health records

Job description

JRS Diversion Specialist

Location: Pittsburgh, PA
Job Type: Full-Time (40.00 hours per week)
Salary: $24.52 per hour ($51,000)
Department: Human Services Administration Organization (HSAO)

About Us

At Human Services Administration Organization (HSAO), we are dedicated to providing comprehensive service coordination to individuals and families across Allegheny County. Our mission spans behavioral health, drug and alcohol services, justice-related programs, and community support. We believe in fostering recovery, resilience, and full inclusion in the community through collaborative, person-centered care.

Position Overview

The Justice Related Services Diversion Program provides vital support for individuals with mental illness and/or co-occurring mental illness and substance use disorders who encounter the criminal justice system in Allegheny County. Working in collaboration with the Allegheny County Jail, District Courts, Service Coordination Units, Pre-Trial Services, Torrance State Hospital, and other community providers, our Diversion Specialists offer comprehensive case management for individuals awaiting preliminary hearings. The program’s primary goal is to divert individuals from incarceration by developing and presenting personalized service plans to the District Courts. Our services include connecting individuals to essential treatment and housing resources, coordinating necessary benefits and services, and offering advocacy and support throughout court proceedings.

Key Responsibilities

Client Support and Case Management

• Serve as the primary contact and advocate for individuals and families, ensuring that services align with their needs and goals.
• Develop individualized service plans based on assessments and update them regularly to reflect progress and evolving needs.
• Provide face-to-face support to clients, meeting at least once per month or as needed.
• Assist clients in navigating the criminal justice system, including court proceedings, probation/parole requirements, and treatment services.
• Coordinate with behavioral health providers, ensuring access to mental health, drug, and alcohol services and other community supports.

Collaboration and Advocacy

• Facilitate interdisciplinary team meetings with stakeholders including families, healthcare providers, probation officers when appropriate, and any other entities who may be a part of someone’s larger treatment team.
• Actively advocate for clients' access to needed resources and provide feedback to address systemic barriers.
• Collaborate with treatment providers and other community partners to develop discharge plans and post-release services.
• Serve as a liaison between clients, providers, and systems, ensuring smooth communication and care coordination.

Documentation and Compliance

• Maintain accurate records of interactions, including service plans, case notes, and assessments, in electronic health records.
• Ensure compliance with HIPAA and other confidentiality policies.
• Participate in program audits and quality reviews to ensure that services meet agency and regulatory standards.

Training and Development

• Participate in ongoing training to stay current with best practices in mental health, substance use, and criminal justice services.
• Offer support and mentorship to new staff, fostering a collaborative learning environment.

Required Skills and Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work, Psychology, Education, Nursing, Criminal Justice, or a related field (Master’s Degree preferred).
• Two years of experience in case management, behavioral health, or a related field (or equivalent experience in behavioral health settings).
• Knowledge of mental health and addiction treatment principles.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage a caseload and deadlines.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with cultural competence to work effectively with diverse populations.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team-oriented environment.

Additional Requirements

• Act 33, Act 34, and Allegheny County Jail Security Clearance (required upon hire).
• Valid Pennsylvania driver’s license and access to a personal vehicle with current insurance coverage.

Work Conditions and Benefits

• Full-time position with a flexible hybrid work model, including remote administrative tasks.
• Mileage and parking reimbursement for fieldwork.
• Competitive salary and benefits, including medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Paid time off (PTO), holidays, and a retirement savings plan.

Why Join Us?

At HSAO, you’ll become part of a dynamic and mission-driven organization committed to empowering individuals and families. Through our collaborative approach, you’ll have the opportunity to work alongside community partners, make a real impact, and grow professionally.