Drug Checking Specialist

Drug Checking Specialist

The Drug Checking Specialist will participate in all drug checking efforts across Western Connecticut. In partnership with community-based programs, they will be charged with the goals of reducing drug-related harm, increasing community knowledge, and assisting individuals in making informed decisions regarding their substance use. This includes dissemination of results to participants and community partners via multiple platforms, as well as implementing relevant community-driven interventions and messaging related to substances, substance use, and overdoses in Western Connecticut.

Drug checking is both an art and a science. Interacting with service users of all varieties respectfully and productively is imperative to its success. Doing so will include constant attentiveness to a staff members own biases and necessary growth points, as well as an ability to work and communicate with a wide spectrum of people. A high degree of confidentiality, ethical bounds, and respect to the position and people who use drugs (PWUD) is fundamental to this role.

Full-time/Non-Exempt

Hourly rate begins at $22.00

QUALIFICATIONS

Two years of experience in a relevant field working with populations of people who use drugs including data collection and interpretation required, bachelor’s degree preferred. Lived experience preferred. Two years of experience with underserved and marginalized populations required. Knowledge of harm reduction, current drug supply, trends, and psychoactive substances preferred.

This position requires frequent sitting, ability to talk and hear. It also requires frequent walking. Occasional lifting may be needed but not required except for proper storage of documents and charts and moving objects from one place to another.

Valid CT driver’s license required.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Analyze samples using FTIR and immunoassay test strips.
  • Maintain set drug checking hours for participants.
  • Outreach to various harm reduction sites across the region.
  • Interpret findings and communicate tailored results to various audiences. (Service users, task force partners, providers, etc.)
• Collect and document all pertinent data for submitted samples in data management systems
  • Perform ongoing review of data for quality assurance.
  • Contribute to the development of drug-checking protocols, materials, and data products.
• Contribute to research activities related to the drug-checking program.
• Build relationships with staff from community-based services including harm reduction specialists, outreach workers and program managers, to ensure seamless and effective service delivery.
• Prepare monthly data report outs to present to various audiences about program impact, identified barriers, and other pertinent information related to the drug supply within Region 5.
• Meet or exceed metrics of:
  • Test 30 samples monthly
  • Conduct 5 outreaches weekly
  • Maintain 3 weekly office hour blocks for walk ins.
• Perform other duties as may be assigned by supervisor.

Full Job Description will be provided