Substance Use Disorder Professional Trainee (SUDPT)

~We are recruiting for a SUD Trainee (SUDPT)~

PURPOSE OF POSITION: The Substance Use Disorder Professional (SUDP) series provides counseling, case management, assessment, and treatment planning services to individuals experiencing substance use disorders. Staff delivers person-centered, culturally responsive, trauma-informed services aligned with state and federal regulations, agency protocols, and best practices in SUD treatment. Work is performed under general supervision and supports client stabilization, recovery, and engagement with community resources while ensuring compliance with Washington Administrative Code (WAC), Revised Code of Washington (RCW) and contractual standards.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS: The SUDP series includes levels that progress based on competency, experience, and credential status. Higher-level positions demonstrate increased independence, clinical judgment, and responsibility for treatment planning, documentation accuracy, and collaboration with community partners.

• Level 1 – SUD Trainee (SUDPT): Works under close clinical supervision; performs basic clinical tasks and develops core competencies required for certification.
• Level 2 – SUDP 1: Performs independent clinical work within the scope of SUDP certification; handles routine cases.
• Level 3 – SUDP 2: Manages more complex cases, demonstrates advanced practice skills, and may mentor trainees.
• Level 4 – SUDP 3: Highest non-supervisory level; represents advanced proficiency, clinical leadership within the team, mentor trainees, and consistent performance excellence.

Incumbents may advance within the series when they consistently meet the expectations of the higher level, and the supervising manager authorizes the progression. See the Qualifications section for specific details at each level.  

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties required.

• Conducts SUD screenings, diagnostic assessments, and intake evaluations to identify treatment needs, determine eligibility, and ensure individuals are appropriately placed into services.
• Develops individualized treatment plans based on assessed strengths, needs, and recovery goals to establish clear therapeutic objectives that align with WAC 246-811 and American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) criteria.
• Provides individual and group counseling using evidence-informed practices to facilitate behavioral change, enhance motivation, and promote sustained recovery.
• Delivers case management services, including care coordination, resource linkage, and navigation support, to remove barriers to treatment and improve client stability across life domains.
• Documents all services accurately and within required timelines to maintain compliance with WAC, RCW, Division of Behavioral Health and Recovery (DBHR), and agency standards and to ensure appropriate billing and clinical continuity.
• Monitors and evaluates client progress throughout treatment and updates treatment plans and interventions as clinically indicated to improve outcomes and treatment effectiveness.
• Collaborates with healthcare providers, criminal justice partners, schools, and social service agencies to ensure continuity of care and coordinated service delivery.
• Participates in multidisciplinary team meetings, case consultations, and required trainings to maintain clinical competency and contribute to effective program operations.
• Delivers services in a manner consistent with individual rights, cultural values, language needs, and personal preferences to promote equitable and person-centered care.
• Applies crisis intervention and de-escalation techniques when clients experience acute distress or relapse, ensuring safety and connecting individuals to appropriate levels of care.
• Maintains confidentiality and adheres to ethical, legal, and regulatory requirements to ensure professional conduct and compliance with all applicable standards.
• May provide testimony in court hearings, including presenting accurate case information and treatment recommendations to assist the court in decision-making.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

AT EVERY LEVERL OF SUDP:

Other Requirements: 

• Washington State Driver’s License with proof of automobile insurance and acceptable driving abstract.

WORKING CONDITIONS AND ENVIRONMENT:

• Work is performed in a combination of office, clinic, community, and field-based settings.
• Direct contact with individuals experiencing substance use disorders, co-occurring mental health symptoms, withdrawal, or behavioral instability.
• May encounter individuals experiencing emotional distress, hostility, agitation, or relapse-related crises.
• Work may occur in varied environments, including homes, hospitals, jails, shelters, treatment facilities, or community locations with fluctuating temperatures or less-controlled conditions.
• Frequent interruptions, shifting priorities, and moderate noise levels may occur in shared workspaces.
• Work hours may vary and can include evenings, weekends, or on-call assignments, depending on program needs.
• Duties require regular travel within the county, including driving in varied road and weather conditions; staff may occasionally transport individuals when appropriate and permitted.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Sit, stand, walk, bend, or move between office and community settings throughout the workday.
• Operate standard office equipment, including a computer, phone, copier, and related technology.
• Lift, carry, or move items up to 50 pounds (files, program supplies, or client belongings) as needed.
• Respond quickly to emergent situations, including assisting individuals in crisis or navigating unpredictable environments.
• Communicate clearly in person, by phone, and in writing to support counseling, coordination, and documentation duties.
• The position may involve occasional exposure to blood, body fluids, or tissues; universal precautions and PPE are required.

Other: