Prevention Specialist

Job Description

Job Description

Position Summary:

The Prevention Specialist is responsible for delivering evidence-based substance use prevention education and programming to children, adolescents, and their families in school and community settings. This role focuses on building resilience, promoting healthy decision-making, and preventing the initiation of alcohol, tobacco, and drug use among youth. The Prevention Specialist also plays a key role in community outreach, partnership-building, and promoting a culture of wellness.

Key Responsibilities:

• Plan and facilitate age-appropriate, evidence-based prevention programs, workshops, and classroom presentations for students in grades K–12.

• Organize and participate in school assemblies, after-school activities, health fairs, and community events that promote substance use prevention.

• Engage youth in dialogue about peer pressure, decision-making, emotional regulation, and other protective factors.

• Facilitate workshops, skill-building groups, and youth activities focused on substance use prevention, resilience, and healthy decision-making.

• Develop and maintain collaborative relationships with school staff, parents, and community stakeholders to promote program access and success.

• Distribute educational materials and resources that reinforce prevention messages and provide support to youth and families.

• Participate in planning and executing prevention events, awareness campaigns, and outreach activities.

• Assist in data collection and outcome tracking for reporting and continuous quality improvement.

• Collaborate with local coalitions, prevention partners, and public health entities to coordinate outreach and align efforts.

• Maintain accurate records, attendance logs, and reports in accordance with agency and grant requirements.

• Stay current on trends in adolescent development, substance use, and prevention strategies.

• Stay current on trends in adolescent substance use, prevention science, and community health.

• Represent the organization in a professional, engaging, and culturally responsive manner.

• All other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in psychology, social work, counseling, education, human services, or a related field (required).

• Minimum of one year of experience working with children, adolescents, or transition-age youth in a therapeutic, educational, or support role (preferred).

• Knowledge of substance use prevention strategies, adolescent development, and youth engagement best practices.

• Strong public speaking, group facilitation, and communication skills.

• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities in a school- and community-based environment.

• Strong interpersonal, communication, and motivational skills.

• Flexibility to work afternoon, evening, and occasional weekend hours based on program needs.

• Must pass background checks and obtain any required school clearances.

• Valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and the ability to travel within the community.

Work Environment & Schedule:

• This is a non-exempt, full-time position.

• Standard hours are Monday through Friday, 8 AM – 5 PM CST, may require evening and weekend hours for events.

• This position requires in-person work and is not eligible for remote or hybrid work arrangements.

• Work is performed in schools, community centers, and event spaces which may vary in physical accessibility.

• The employee may occasionally be required to lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.

Transportation Requirements:

• Maintain a safe driving record and valid driver’s license with personal liability insurance.

• Follow all agency transportation policies, including seatbelt usage, safe cellphone practices, and vehicle documentation.

• Immediately report any vehicle issues, accidents, or violations to appropriate personnel.

In-Service Training & Continued Education Requirements:

• Participate in all required agency in-service and ADMH trainings

• Commitment to ongoing professional development to enhance skills and stay informed on best practices in behavioral health.

• Completion of onboarding and any continuing education requirements as directed by the agency or supervisor.

• Ongoing professional development to maintain best practices and compliance with evolving standards of care.