The Chemical Dependence Advocate provides daily support, crisis intervention, and counseling to residents in recovery while maintaining accurate case records. They also facilitate educational groups, monitor medication, and ensure safety through property checks and transportation assistance.
Requirements summary
Candidates must possess an Associate’s Degree in Human Services or a High School Diploma with at least one year of experience in a substance abuse program. A valid NYS Driver’s License and the ability to maintain professional boundaries and confidentiality are also required.
high schoolassociate degreeConfidentialityCounselingLeadershipCommunication skillsTreatment planningSafety complianceCrisis interventionMedication monitoringCase documentationGroup facilitationAdministrative abilitiesProfessional ethicsSubstance abuse support
Job description
**Sign On Bonus Opportunities**
Position type
Full-Time (37.5 hours per week / 52 weeks per year) – grade 13
Monday - Friday
3:00pm - 11:00pm
Are you passionate about supporting individuals on their recovery journey? Do you excel at building trust, offering guidance, and maintaining a calm presence during challenging situations? OCO is seeking a Chemical Dependency Advocate to join our team and play a vital role in helping residents work toward long‑term sobriety and a stable, healthy lifestyle.
This position is ideal for someone who is compassionate, dependable, and committed to empowering individuals in recovery.
What you’ll do
As a Chemical Dependence Advocate, you will
Provide daily support, crisis intervention, and counseling to residents in recovery.
Assist residents in achieving goals outlined in their treatment plans.
Maintain accurate progress notes, case records, and required documentation.
Prepare progress reports for attorneys, courts, probation, DSS, and other partners.
Conduct room and property searches as needed to maintain safety.
Provide transportation for appointments and support residents during community outings.
Monitor and document resident medication use.
Oversee daily program activities and assist residents with housekeeping responsibilities.
Facilitate educational groups and skill‑building sessions.
Maintain strong working relationships with healthcare providers, treatment partners, and social service agencies.
Ensure confidentiality in accordance with 42 CFR Part 2.
Participate in team meetings, training, and ongoing professional development.
Serve as a positive role model and provide constructive support and structure.
Job Requirements
Ability to connect with residents in a warm, nonjudgmental, and supportive manner.
Solid understanding of chemical dependency and the treatment system.
Strong communication skills—both written and verbal.
Benefits
Sign on bonus
Ability to stay calm under pressure and handle crisis situations professionally.
Leadership skills and the ability to guide residents in daily responsibilities.
Strong documentation and administrative abilities.
Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
Commitment to confidentiality, professional ethics, and continued learning.
Valid NYS Driver’s License (within agency policy) and access to a reliable vehicle for related travel and transporting residents; must complete and maintain Agency vehicle certification.
Minimum Qualifications
Candidates must meet one of the following
Associate’s Degree in Human Services, or
High School Diploma (or equivalent) plus one year of experience in an alcoholism/substance abuse program, or
An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
💙 why join oco?
You’ll be part of a mission-driven team committed to empowering individuals on their path to recovery. You’ll have opportunities for training, professional growth, and making a meaningful difference every day.
Oswego County Opportunities, Inc. provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, creed, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.
