Alcohol and Drug Counselor

Company Description

Our Job Corps programs at Equus Workforce Solutions power the nation’s largest residential living initiative, changing the lives of thousands of young adults across the United States and Puerto Rico. More than just a training provider, we serve as a launchpad for possibility—equipping students with academic support, hands-on training, and nationally recognized credentials in today’s most in-demand industries. 

Every role within Job Corps—whether in administration, instruction, or support services—contributes to building brighter futures and empowering young people to thrive in the workforce and beyond. Our programs go beyond the classroom, fostering social growth, building confidence, and preparing students to become engaged, empowered citizens. Fueled by strong community and industry partnerships, Job Corps is a place where every success story begins—and where lives are changed every day.

Job Description

Position Summary

The Alcohol and Drug Counselor is responsible for conducting substance‑use assessments for students, developing individualized intervention plans, and making appropriate referrals. The coordinator leads prevention efforts by designing and implementing educational activities, facilitating group sessions, and providing counseling and relapse‑prevention support.

This role collaborates closely with center staff and community agencies to ensure the delivery of integrated, comprehensive, and high‑quality services to all students.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Conducts Trainee Employee Assistance Program (TEAP) assessments and develops individualized intervention and support plans.
• Facilitates group sessions, workshops, and prevention‑focused educational programs.
• Provides counseling, prevention education, and relapse‑prevention support to students.
• Collaborates with center departments and community agencies to coordinate comprehensive student support services.
• Participates in department processes that address student concerns, feedback, and program needs.
• Assists in creating, maintaining, and updating operating procedures related to TEAP program components.
• Works collaboratively with the Center Mental Health Consultant, Center Physician, Health Services staff, and other designated personnel to ensure proper integration of intervention strategies.
• Coordinates with the Recreation Department to develop activities and incentive programs that promote a healthy, substance‑free lifestyle consistent with TEAP goals.
• Serves as a liaison between TEAP, the Center Mental Health Consultant, and the Center Standards Officer on matters related to substance‑use intervention and program compliance.
• Performs quality‑assurance audits of program files and documentation.
• Maintains TEAP‑related data and prepares quarterly reports required by the Department of Labor.
• Ensures proper specimen collection, documentation, and handling in accordance with chain‑of‑custody standards.
• Supports the Center’s Tobacco Use Prevention Program by providing training, education, and ongoing reinforcement of prevention strategies.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in:
  • Psychology
  • Social Work
  • Counseling
  • Public Health
  • Or other related behavioral‑science fields

Credentials Required in Puerto Rico

• To work in substance‑abuse counseling in Puerto Rico, the following credential is required:
  • Certification as an Addiction Counselor, issued by the Puerto Rico Board of Certification for Addiction and Alcoholism Professionals, Inc. (JCPAA), which certifies that the requirements of the JCPAA and the International Certification & Reciprocity Consortium/Alcohol & Other Drug Abuse, Inc. (ICRC/AODA) have been met to practice as an Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor

Preferred Experience

• Previous experience working with youth, educational programs, counseling, or support services (preferred but may vary by internal policy).

Knowledge and Competencies

• Knowledge of substance‑abuse prevention, early intervention, and case management.
• Ability to facilitate groups, workshops, and educational sessions.
• Strong communication skills, crisis‑management capabilities, and ability to work collaboratively within multidisciplinary teams.
• Understanding of confidentiality regulations and chain‑of‑custody procedures.

Additional Requirements

• Must have a clean driving record and possess a valid Puerto Rico Category 4 driver’s license.
• Must have a current Health Certificate.
• Must demonstrate fluency in both English and Spanish, with strong verbal and written communication skills in both languages.
• Must possess excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively in a team‑oriented environment.
• Must have the ability to present educational topics to students and employees and provide guidance and orientation to students in both individual and group settings.

Additional Information

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

Equus Workforce Solutions is a leading provider of workforce development services in North America. With a dedicated and passionate team, Equus puts the industry’s best practices to work by focusing on the development, design, and delivery of demand-driven workforce solutions.

When you join Equus, you can expect extensive learning opportunities and networking programs. But most of all you can expect to make a lasting impact on the lives of others.

At Equus we are strengthened by diversity. We are committed to providing a work environment in which everyone is included, treated fairly and with respect. Equus Workforce Solutions is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, gender, age, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, ancestry, religion, national origin, veteran status, physical or mental disability, or reprisal or any other characteristic protected under state, federal, or local law.