Prevention Services Specialist

Position Description

This position will assist the Prevention Services Coordinator in implementing evidence-based substance use prevention and mental health promotion strategies across the 15-county service area of the Central Prevention Resource Center (PRC). This position will be responsible for conducting community outreach, delivering prevention education, coordinating resources, and supporting capacity-building efforts to enhance local prevention infrastructure. The Prevention Specialist will collaborate with schools, community organizations, and other stakeholders to foster sustainable, culturally responsive prevention initiatives.

Duties / Responsibilities

Implement evidence-based substance use prevention and mental health promotion strategies following the Strategic Prevention Framework (SPF).

Conduct outreach and education efforts, including workshops, presentations, and community engagement events for schools, community organizations, and other stakeholders.

Provide direct prevention services, technical assistance, and training to regional schools, law enforcement, community organizations, businesses, and individuals.

Collaborate with local coalitions, schools, tribal health organizations, and community-serving agencies to enhance prevention efforts.

Provide training and technical assistance to community partners to strengthen prevention efforts and coalition development.

Coordinate and facilitate youth and adult training sessions, ensuring accessibility to relevant materials and best practices.

Assist in monitoring and evaluating training effectiveness, offering follow-up support to participating schools and organizations.

Maintain the PRC Prevention Resource Library, ensuring materials are updated, cataloged, and accessible for community use.

Update the PRC website and digital platforms (monthly) with new prevention materials, training opportunities, and newsletters.

Manage an online inventory and tracking system for prevention resources and curriculum checkouts.

Develop and implement media strategies to promote prevention campaigns, trainings, and events via websites, social media, and email outreach.

Support the coordination of PRC forums, networks, and coalition-building initiatives across the 15-county region.

Collect, analyze, and report data on program participation, training impact, and community engagement outcomes.

Assist in evaluating program effectiveness, tracking reductions in substance use and improvements in mental health indicators.

Ensure compliance with state and federal prevention program requirements, including ARSD § 67:61:11.

Provide administrative support, including material organization, training coordination, purchasing, and event logistics.

Assist in budget monitoring, ensuring program activities align with financial parameters.

Responsible for communicating an overall positive and professional image of the organization and its services.

Perform other relevant duties as assigned.

Required Skills / Abilities:

Strong interpersonal skills and communication skills, both oral and written.

Ability to carry out responsibilities with compassion, acceptance, and patience.

Ability to use a computer and operate standard software.

Ability to multi-task.

Must have a valid driver’s license and must provide proof of insurance.

May need to use personal vehicle for work-related tasks when agency vehicles are unavailable.

Willingness to travel throughout the 15-county coverage area.

Maintain a flexible work schedule.

Work hours may include some evening and weekend hours.

Education / Experience:

Minimum of an associate degree in the social sciences or human services field required.

One-year related experience preferred.

SAPST or Foundations of Prevention completion within one year hire.

Certified Prevention Specialist with SD BAPP completed within the five-year trainee period.

Physical Requirements:

Requires periods of moving throughout the office and traveling to other locations within the community/designated coverage area.

Requires periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer.

Must be able to lift up to 30 pounds at times.

To apply, please complete the application process through our career portal and include a cover letter and resume.  Within your cover letter please outline the following:  

1.  Why you are interested in this position.

2. How your past work experience/education has prepared you for this position.