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Addictions Worker Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Addictions Worker information

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$10

$20

$28

How much do addictions worker jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for addictions worker in California is $20.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $24.66 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an addictions worker?

Addictions workers are professionals who support individuals struggling with substance use or behavioral addictions. They provide counseling, education, and resources to help clients understand and manage their addictions. Addictions workers may work in community organizations, treatment centers, hospitals, or outreach programs. Their roles often include assessment, developing treatment plans, supporting recovery, and connecting clients to additional services. They play a crucial part in helping individuals achieve and maintain sobriety, while also addressing related mental health and social issues.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an addictions worker, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Addictions Worker, you need a background in psychology, social work, or addiction counseling, often supported by a relevant diploma or degree and certifications such as Certified Addiction Counselor (CAC). Familiarity with case management software, assessment tools, and intervention techniques is commonly required. Strong interpersonal skills, empathy, and the ability to maintain professional boundaries help build trust and support client recovery. These skills ensure effective client care, promote long-term recovery, and facilitate collaboration with multidisciplinary teams.

What are some common challenges addictions workers face when supporting clients through recovery?

Addictions Workers often encounter challenges such as managing clients’ relapse risks, addressing co-occurring mental health disorders, and navigating resistance to treatment. Building trust with clients can take time, especially for those who have experienced trauma or multiple treatment attempts. Additionally, Addictions Workers must balance empathy with maintaining professional boundaries and self-care, given the emotionally demanding nature of the work. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams and ongoing training are essential for addressing these challenges effectively.

What is the difference between Addictions Worker vs Substance Abuse Counselor?

AspectAddictions WorkerSubstance Abuse Counselor
CredentialsOften requires certification or licensing, such as CADC or equivalentTypically requires state licensure or certification, such as CADC or LPC
Work EnvironmentCommunity clinics, treatment centers, hospitalsRehabilitation centers, outpatient clinics, private practices
Employer & IndustryHealthcare, social services, non-profitsHealthcare, mental health services, addiction treatment facilities
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Both Addictions Workers and Substance Abuse Counselors assist individuals with addiction issues, often working in similar environments and requiring comparable certifications. The main difference lies in terminology and specific job roles; Addictions Workers may focus more on case management and support, while Substance Abuse Counselors often provide therapy and counseling services. Both roles are vital in addiction treatment and frequently overlap in practice.

What job categories do people searching Addictions Worker jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Addictions Worker jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various Addictions Worker job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,458 per year, or $20.9 per hour.

Certified SUD Counselor (Substance Abuse Counselor)

MENTAL HEALTH SYSTEMS INC

San Marcos, CA • On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

At TURN our mission is Improving Lives. Our organization embraces the tenets of client-centered care, and our core values People, Culture and Growth are at the forefront of everything we do. We hire exceptional individuals seeking meaningful opportunities in a purpose-driven environment.

Sign-On Bonus Agreement – $500

  • A total of $500 will be awarded as a sign-on bonus.
  • Payment Terms: The full amount will be paid upon successful completion of three (3) months of continuous employment with TURN BHS.

JOB SUMMARY

The Substance Abuse Counselor provides drug and alcohol counseling to adult clients authorized to receive substance abuse treatment under a non-residential substance abuse or mental health program. Counselors interact with clients on a day-to-day basis providing individual and group counseling, as well as engaging in rehabilitation activities. The Substance Abuse Counselor provides clients with orientation, training, substance abuse recovery skills and information, and leadership necessary to provide clients with the ability to recover from substance abuse addiction. The Substance Abuse Counselor may be assigned additional counseling duties.

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Reasonable accommodation may be made for individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.
  • Maintain a caseload as prescribed by the Program Manager. Provide a variety of interventions including individual and group counseling, crisis intervention, collateral services, and other relevant sobriety-related services to clients.
  • Document, review, and chart client progress; Complete all required paperwork, on time.
  • Attend treatment meetings and provides input to treatment plan. Prepares treatment and discharge plans and discharge summaries.
  • Designate new target goals for clients consistent with overall treatment goals.
  • Initiate appropriate and timely interventions.
  • Integrate the clinical concept with sound theoretical and practical applications of rehabilitative and individual group and milieu counseling principles.
  • Provide input to develop and improve program servicing and delivery.
  • Assist other staff in dealing with problematic client behavior.
  • Schedule daily activity and recreational activities and short-term special groups.
  • Act as co-leader in assigned groups.
  • Other relevant duties as assigned.
  • Comply with all TURN and program rules, policies and procedures including HIPPA standards.

QUALIFICATIONS

  • Must meet one of the following:
  • Certification through a recognized alcohol and drug certification entity plus two years of experience working with alcohol and drug related issues/addictions, preferred, OR,
  • Actively working toward a recognized alcohol and drug certification and two years of experience working with alcohol and drug related issues/addictions, OR,
  • B.A./B.S. degree in human service field and one year of experience working with alcohol and drug related issues/addictions
  • Working knowledge of California’s Title 9 DUI program as a provider, required.
  • Ability to produce legible, clear, and concise written documentation
  • Knowledge of Microsoft Office and EHR software
  • Ability to set priorities, problem solve, and react appropriately to emergency situations
  • Ability to work independently and effectively collaborate with a team
  • Cultural Competency understanding required.
  • Bilingual Spanish speaking required

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

These physical demands represent what must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. As mentioned above, reasonable accommodation may be made for qualified disabilities.

☒ Seeing ☒ Hearing ☒ Speaking

☒ Stooping/Bending ☒ Working in cramped spaces ☒ Moving around facility

☒ Moving between offices/clients ☐ Driving ☒ Climbing

☒ Lifting/carrying heavy items ☒ Pushing/pulling/dragging items ☒ Standing for long periods

☐ Working outside/underground ☒ Using hands/fingers ☒ Sitting for long periods

I can perform the above functions:

☐ Without accommodation ☐ With accommodation. If so, please specify:

OTHER DUTIES

This job description isn’t a comprehensive list of activities, duties or responsibilities required for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

TURN is an equal opportunity employer to all, regardless of age, ancestry, color, disability (mental and physical), gender, gender expression, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, race, religious creed, and sex (includes pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, and related medical conditions.