Fresh Listing

Posted: February 2, 2026 (0 days ago)

This job was posted recently. Fresh listings typically have less competition.

Drug and Alcohol Treatment Specialist 1

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

Department of Corrections

Fresh

Location

Pennsylvania, 17120

Salary

$55,436 - $84,332

per year

Type

Closes

February 17, 2026

Job Description

Summary

This job involves helping inmates in a Pennsylvania prison overcome drug and alcohol addiction through assessments, therapy sessions, and creating personalized recovery plans to support their rehabilitation and return to society.

It's ideal for someone passionate about counseling and recovery who wants to make a real difference in public safety.

A good fit would be a dedicated professional with experience in substance abuse support and a background in behavioral sciences.

Key Requirements

  • One year of para-professional experience in drug and alcohol counseling in a social work setting, plus certification as a Certified Addictions Counselor by the PA Chemical Abuse Certification Board
  • One year of experience as a Corrections Counselor or Social Worker (or equivalent federal title)
  • One year of professional experience in drug and alcohol counseling with a bachelor's degree including 18 credits in behavioral sciences
  • A master's degree with major coursework in addictions science, psychology, or social work
  • An equivalent combination of experience and training, including 18 college credits in behavioral sciences
  • Successful completion of basic training in Elizabethtown, PA
  • Meet PA residency requirements

Full Job Description

If you are ready to make a tangible impact on public safety and individual recovery, then the Department of Corrections (DOC) has an exciting opportunity for you! We are seeking a passionate and driven Drug and Alcohol Treatment Specialist 1 to join our team at the State Correctional Institution (SCI) at Phoenix. In this role, you will be at the forefront of the rehabilitative process for inmates, conducting clinical assessments and facilitating life-changing therapy sessions. Apply today and become a part of our mission to empower individuals on their path to recovery and make a lasting, positive impact on our community!


Requirements

As a Drug and Alcohol Treatment Specialist 1, you will perform entry-level professional duties focused on the rehabilitation of substance-dependent inmates. This role involves conducting initial assessments and interviews to establish preliminary programming recommendations and facilitate the development of individualized treatment and recovery plans. Some key responsibilities of the position include delivering individual and group therapy, coordinating self-help programs, and maintaining meticulous patient records. Furthermore, you will serve as a vital member of the multidisciplinary treatment team. Your goal will be to promote cognitive and behavioral changes in inmates that will support their successful reentry into the community.

Work Schedule and Additional Information:

  • Full-time employment, 40 hours per week
  • Work hours are 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday - Friday, with a 30-minute lunch.
  • This position is eligible for full retirement benefits at age 50 or 55.
  • Telework: You will not have the option to telework in this position.
  • Salary: Selected candidates who are new to employment with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania will begin employment at the starting annual salary of $55,436.00 (before taxes). However, a higher salary may be established in accordance with the applicable collective bargaining agreement.
  • You will receive further communication regarding this position via email. Check your email, including spam/junk folders, for these notices.

Qualifications

QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum Experience and Training Requirements:

  • One year of para-professional experience providing drug and alcohol counseling services directly to clients in a social work setting; and certification by the PA Chemical Abuse Certification Board as a "Certified Addictions Counselor"; or
  • One year of experience as a Corrections Counselor or Social Worker (Commonwealth job title or equivalent Federal Government job title, as determined by the Office of Administration); or
  • One year of professional experience providing drug and alcohol counseling services directly to clients in a social work setting and a bachelor's degree that includes 18 college credits in the behavioral sciences; or
  • A master's degree with major course work in addictions science, psychology or social work; or
  • An equivalent combination of experience and training which includes 18 college credits in the behavioral sciences.


Other Requirements:
  • Successful completion of basic training in Elizabethtown, PA is required.
  • You must meet the PA residency requirement. For more information on ways to meet PA residency requirements, follow the link and click on Residency.
  • You must be able to perform essential job functions.


Legal Requirement:

  • You must pass a background investigation and meet Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) compliance requirements.


How to Apply:

Resumes, cover letters, and similar documents will not be reviewed, and the information contained therein will not be considered for the purposes of determining your eligibility for the position.

Information to support your eligibility for the position must be provided on the application (i.e., relevant, detailed experience/education).

  • If you are claiming education in your answers to the supplemental application questions, you must attach a copy of your college transcripts for your claim to be accepted toward meeting the minimum requirements. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable.
  • Your application must be submitted by the posting closing date. Late applications and other required materials will not be accepted.
  • Failure to comply with the above application requirements may eliminate you from consideration for this position.

  • Veterans:

    • Pennsylvania law (51 Pa. C.S. §7103) provides employment preference for qualified veterans for appointment to many state and local government jobs. To learn more about employment preferences for veterans, go to www.pa.gov/agencies/employment/how-to-apply.html and click on Veterans.

    Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS):

    • 711 (hearing and speech disabilities or other individuals).

    If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodations due to a disability, please discuss your request for accommodations with the interviewer in advance of your interview date.


    The Commonwealth is an equal employment opportunity employer and is committed to a diverse workforce.

    The Commonwealth values inclusion as we seek to recruit, develop, and retain the most qualified people to serve the citizens of Pennsylvania.

    The Commonwealth does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religious creed, ancestry, union membership, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, AIDS or HIV status, disability, or any other categories protected by applicable federal or state law.

    All diverse candidates are encouraged to apply.

    Additional Information

    • Completing the application, including all supplemental questions, serves as your exam for this position. No additional exam is required at a test center (also referred to as a written exam).
    • Your score is based on the detailed information you provide on your application and in response to the supplemental questions.
    • Your score is valid for this specific posting only.
    • You must provide complete and accurate information or:
      • your score may be lower than deserved.
      • you may be disqualified.
    • You may only apply/test once for this posting.
    • Your results will be provided via email.

    Check your resume before applying to catch common mistakes

    Browse Similar Jobs

    Posted on NEOGOV: 2/2/2026 | Added to FreshGovJobs: 2/2/2026

    Source: NEOGOV | ID: neogov-pabureau-5215671