Licensed Substance Abuse Counselor

Operation Empower; Dubuque (IA); On-site; USD 58,500 - 71,500; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Starting salary of $65,000+

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Paid time off (PTO)

Paid Holidays

Job summary

A community support organization in Dubuque is seeking a Licensed Substance Abuse Counselor to provide evidence-based counseling for individuals with substance use disorders. This role offers the flexibility of full-time or part-time employment. Qualified candidates will have relevant Iowa licensure, experience in treatment settings, and a commitment to client well-being. The organization offers a competitive starting salary, comprehensive benefits, and promotes an inclusive workplace.

Qualifications

• Iowa licensure as CADC, IADC, or LSAC; or equivalent.
• 1+ year of experience in substance use treatment or behavioral health.
• Clear criminal background check and Iowa Child Abuse Registry clearance.

Responsibilities

• Conduct client screenings, assessments, and intake.
• Develop and implement individualized treatment plans.
• Provide individual and group counseling.

Skills

Effective organizational skills

Communication skills

Knowledge of addiction recovery principles

Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite

Education

Master’s degree in Counseling, Psychology, Social Work, or related field

Bachelor’s degree with relevant experience

Tools

Electronic case management systems

Job description

About Operation Empower

Operation Empower is a mission-driven nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing the well-being of individuals and families through accessible social services, mental health support, and community engagement. We believe in a future where everyone has the resources and support needed to thrive.

Job Description

We are seeking a compassionate Licensed Substance Abuse Counselor to join our team as either full-time or part-time based on the candidate’s preference. You will support clients with substance use disorders, particularly opioid use disorders, through evidence-based counseling, treatment planning, and care coordination. The ideal candidate is empathetic, organized, and passionate about addiction recovery, with flexibility to meet program needs.

Responsibilities

• Conduct client screenings, assessments, and intake
• Develop and implement individualized treatment plans using evidence-based practices (e.g., Motivational Interviewing, CBT)
• Provide individual and group counseling, in-person and virtually, to address addiction and behavioral challenges
• Manage a caseload of up to 30 clients, meeting monthly to review progress
• Coordinate care with community resources and professionals
• Maintain compliant records and reports
• Attend staff meetings and trainings
• Adapt services to meet the diverse needs of clients in Dubuque

Requirements and Skills

• Iowa licensure as CADC, IADC, or LSAC; or equivalent (e.g., LISW, LMHC)
• Master’s degree preferred in Counseling, Psychology, Social Work, or a related field; Bachelor’s degree considered with relevant experience
• 1+ year of experience in substance use treatment or behavioral health settings
• Knowledge of addiction recovery principles and techniques
• Effective organizational and communication skills
• Clear criminal background check and Iowa Child Abuse Registry clearance
• Valid driver’s license and insurance for client transport
• Knowledge of or willingness to learn Iowa’s substance use treatment regulations
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and electronic case management systems
• Commitment to complete Dependent Adult Abuse Mandatory Reporter Training within 6 months of hire (and every 5 years thereafter)

What We Offer

• Starting salary of $65,000+, commensurate with experience and licensure
• Dental insurance, vision insurance
• Paid time off (PTO)
• Paid Holidays
• Additional benefits discussed at the offer stage

Operation Empower is an equal opportunity employer, and we warmly encourage candidates from diverse backgrounds to apply, as we are committed to fostering an inclusive and equitable workplace.