Behavioral Health Specialist - Juvenile Court

Whatcom County Superior Court is an independent branch of government and personnel employed under the judicial branch of government.  The positions are in accordance with GR 29. Under GR 29, the Presiding Judge is responsible for the daily operations of the Court, which includes working conditions, hiring, discipline, and termination decisions.

The position provides intensive case management, or non-emergent crisis response or other applicable behavioral health services to youth working with Juvenile Court. The position provides screening, outreach, engagement and supportive services for participants through case management activities and collaboration with juvenile probation officers/court services officers, service providers, and other community organizations.   

Key Duties Include:

• Cultivates contacts and establish and maintain positive, effective, collaborative working relationships with agencies and organizations throughout Whatcom County in an effort to care for and assist individuals working with Juvenile Court who are in need of behavioral health services.
• Engages with youth and youth adults with a focus on Opioid/SUD services, medication assisted treatment (MAT) and other behavioral health and wellness services.
• Provides outreach, coordination and liaison services to youth who use opioids, are suspected of having a substance use disorder or are in need of mental health services.
• Collaborates with outside service providers to bridge gaps in existing community social services to better serve the unique needs of individuals encountered and help reduce barriers experienced by juveniles involved with Juvenile Court. This may include facilitating meetings to ensure collaborative care. 
• Attends weekly probation staffing and detention interdisciplinary team meetings. 
• Provides weekly skill group for youth in juvenile detention.
• Facilitate access to and coordinate SUD assessment and treatment services.
• Provides advocacy and support for participants within the social service, medical and/or criminal justice system including court appearances, written communication and follow up with probation, judicial officers, mental health and substance use disorder providers, , medical care and other community partners.
• Collects and maintains accurate data and case records in accordance with HIPPA (45 CFR Parts 160) and Confidentiality of Alcohol and Drug Abuse Patient Records (42 CFR Part 2). Maintains records in case management system.

Supervisor: Superior and Juvenile Court Administrator

Hours of Work: Monday - Friday 8 AM - 5 PM 

For more information please see the job description and supplemental job description.

Salary Range: 

• MCBA- Range 160.0

Hiring rate depends on qualifications.  This position receives annual pay increases to the next step in the associated salary range (apx. 3.8%) subject to satisfactory performance, in addition to any negotiated Cost of Living Adjustments (COLA).

Requires a Bachelor’s degree in social work, social sciences or other field directly related to human services AND 3 years of professional experience working with juveniles with behavioral health and/or substance use disorders.  
 
Experience working with families desired. 

Special Requirements:

• Must have a driving record that meets County standards and possess a valid driver's license at time of hire and throughout employment.  
• Background check must meet County criteria, including disclosure of serious crimes and sex crimes per RCW 43.43.
• Must have current Washington State Suicide Prevention Training, or obtain within 90 days of employment.            
• Must obtain a First Aid/CPR card within six months of employment and maintain throughout employment.  
• Must complete pre-employment polygraph examination.