Location: Bakersfield, CA
Schedule: Full-Time or Part-Time
Compensation: $23–$30/hour
About the Role
Our client, an established behavioral health organization serving individuals with substance use disorders and related treatment needs, is seeking an SUD Counselor to support its DUI treatment program in Bakersfield.
This position works with individuals participating in a structured DUI program, including court-mandated participants. The SUD Counselor will provide a combination of counseling, education, case management, documentation, and program support while helping participants meet treatment and program requirements.
The counselor will conduct program intakes, facilitate DUI education and counseling groups, provide individual counseling, monitor participant attendance and progress, and maintain accurate program records.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct DUI program intake interviews
- Determine appropriate program level, including SB38, AB541, AB1353, and other applicable programs
- Facilitate DUI education classes and counseling groups
- Provide individual counseling focused on substance misuse, relapse prevention, and behavioral change
- Develop individualized service plans
- Monitor attendance, participation, and compliance with program requirements
- Maintain intake assessments, progress notes, attendance records, and treatment documentation
- Prepare required court reports and completion documentation
- Communicate with courts, probation departments, DMV, referral sources, and attorneys as appropriate
- Maintain confidentiality and regulatory compliance
- Participate in supervision, team meetings, case consultation, and training
Qualifications
- Current AOD Counselor Certification or currently in the process of obtaining certification through a DHCS-recognized organization such as CCAPP, CAADE, or CADTP
- Knowledge of California DUI program requirements is helpful
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to work effectively with challenging and/or court-mandated populations
- Experience with criminal justice-involved or court-mandated clients preferred
- Associate's or Bachelor's degree in counseling, psychology, social work, or a related field preferred, but not required
- Bilingual English/Spanish preferred
Ideal candidate: An AOD/SUD counselor who enjoys group facilitation and is comfortable working within a structured treatment environment serving court-mandated participants. This opportunity may also be a strong fit for someone earlier in their SUD career, as candidates who are currently working toward their AOD certification will be considered.