Part time Behavioral Health Specialist – Acute Treatment Services

Mass Advocates Standing Strong (MASS); Boston (MA); On-site; USD 29,000 - 34,000; Part time

Job summary

The Dimock Center seeks a compassionate Behavioral Health Specialist to support patients in detox and early recovery within a 24-hour acute treatment setting. This 30-hour/week role includes direct care and essential administrative tasks, with shifts Friday through Monday and priority on second shift and overnight.

You will work closely with nursing staff, assist with admissions, daily operations, and discharge planning, and provide culturally responsive, evidence-based care.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree preferred but not required.
• Significant experience supporting individuals with Substance Use Disorders.
• Recovery experience is a plus.
• Ability to work in detox and early recovery settings.

Responsibilities

• Deliver client engagement with professionalism, compassion, and respect.
• Monitor clients during detox and early recovery.
• Assist admissions, daily operations, and discharge support.
• Provide culturally responsive care and maintain a safe therapeutic environment.
• Participate in meetings, trainings, and program development.

Skills

SUD experience

Recovery experience

Team collaboration

Professional boundaries

Education

Bachelor's degree (related field) preferred

Job description

Behavioral Health Specialist - Acute Treatment Services (30 Hours Per Week)

• Approved Salary: $21-$25/hr, dependent on experience, education, licensure and/or training
• Schedule: 30 hours per week, Friday to Monday, 1st, 2nd and Overnight Shifts available; priority currently given to second shift and overnight coverage

• Approved Salary: $21-$25/hr, dependent on experience, education, licensure and/or training
• Schedule: 30 hours per week, Friday to Monday, 1st, 2nd and Overnight Shifts available; priority currently given to second shift and overnight coverage

The Dimock Center seeks a compassionate, team-oriented professional committed to high-quality care. In this role, you will support patients in a medical or office setting, balancing direct care with essential administrative tasks. Lived recovery experience is welcomed and valued.

The Dimock Center is a federally qualified community health center dedicated to healing and strengthening individuals, families, and communities. Our mission is to expand equitable access to comprehensive healthcare and education while fostering a culture grounded in respect, excellence, and inclusion.

Our Behavioral Health Services offer residential and outpatient treatment for individuals living with mental illness, developmental disabilities, or substance use disorders-programs that often serve as a critical lifeline.

Summary/Objective

Behavioral Health Specialists are key members of the interdisciplinary team, supporting patients with Substance Use Disorders. You will monitor clients during detox and early recovery, collaborate closely with nursing staff, and help ensure safe, evidence-based, and compassionate care. Responsibilities include admissions, daily operations, and discharge support. Schedules vary and include days, evenings, and weekends.

Essential Functions

• Deliver client engagement with professionalism, compassion, and respect.
• Ensure safety and support for all clients in the program.
• Maintain therapeutic boundaries and reinforce program structure.
• Support milieu operations: safety checks, room searches, admissions, discharges.
• Create a welcoming environment for new clients.
• Provide culturally responsive care.
• Conduct intakes, complete documentation, and perform property searches.
• Observe and report changes in client health or behavior; use de-escalation skills.
• Assist clients with daily needs, meals, and adherence to policies.
• Facilitate recovery-focused group sessions.
• Maintain a safe, therapeutic environment and support daily operations.
• Participate in meetings, trainings, and program development.

Competencies

• Professional boundaries, confidentiality, and sound judgment.
• Positive, collaborative approach with interdisciplinary teams.
• Strong verbal and written communication.
• Ability to remain composed under pressure and commit to continuous improvement.

Work Environment

24-hour acute treatment setting.

Physical Demands

Frequent lifting/carrying up to 20 pounds.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in related field preferred but not required.
• Significant experience supporting individuals with Substance Use Disorders or similar human services work is strongly preferred. Recovery experience is a plus.

EEO Statement

The Dimock Center values diversity and is committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of age, color, disability, ethnicity, marital status, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other legally protected status.

Salary: $21 - $25 per hour