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Aod Counselor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Counselor II: Certified as an AOD Counselor. * Counselor III: Certified as an AOD Counselor, with one (1) year of full- time experience providing certified AOD counseling services. What We Offer:

Counselor II: Certified as an AOD Counselor. * Counselor III: Certified as an AOD Counselor, with one (1) year of full- time experience providing certified AOD counseling services. What We Offer:

Counselor II: Certified as an AOD Counselor. * Counselor III: Certified as an AOD Counselor, with one (1) year of full- time experience providing certified AOD counseling services. What We Offer:

Counselor II: Certified as an AOD Counselor. * Counselor III: Certified as an AOD Counselor, with one (1) year of full- time experience providing certified AOD counseling services. What We Offer:

Counselor II: Certified as an AOD Counselor. * Counselor III: Certified as an AOD Counselor, with one (1) year of full- time experience providing certified AOD counseling services. What We Offer:

Counselor II: Certified as an AOD Counselor. * Counselor III: Certified as an AOD Counselor, with one (1) year of full- time experience providing certified AOD counseling services. What We Offer:

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Aod Counselor information

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$25

$35

How much do aod counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for aod counselor in the United States is $25.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.39 and $28.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an AOD counselor?

AOD Counselors, or Alcohol and Other Drug Counselors, are professionals who help individuals struggling with substance abuse issues. They provide assessment, counseling, treatment planning, and support to clients dealing with addiction to alcohol or other drugs. AOD Counselors work in various settings such as rehabilitation centers, hospitals, community organizations, and private practices. Their goal is to assist clients in achieving and maintaining sobriety, improving mental health, and rebuilding their lives.

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

To thrive as an AOD (Alcohol and Other Drugs) Counselor, you need a solid understanding of addiction counseling principles, assessment techniques, and typically a relevant certification or degree such as CADC or a similar credential. Familiarity with case management software, electronic health records, and evidence-based treatment methods is often required. Strong interpersonal skills, empathy, and the ability to build trust are vital for supporting clients through recovery. These skills and qualifications are essential to effectively guide individuals toward sobriety and ensure ethical, effective care within treatment programs.

What are some common challenges AOD counselors face when supporting clients through recovery?

AOD Counselors often encounter challenges such as client relapse, resistance to treatment, and co-occurring mental health issues. Building trust and maintaining client engagement can require patience and strong interpersonal skills, as clients may be ambivalent about change or struggle with external factors like family dynamics or legal issues. Counselors must also balance case management tasks with direct counseling, all while maintaining professional boundaries and practicing self-care to avoid burnout.

What is the difference between Aod Counselor vs Substance Abuse Counselor?

AspectAod CounselorSubstance Abuse Counselor
CredentialsOften requires certification or licensure in addiction counselingRequires certification or licensure in substance abuse counseling
Work EnvironmentWorks in clinics, rehab centers, or community programsWorks in rehab centers, outpatient clinics, or hospitals
Industry UsageCommonly used in addiction treatment settingsUsed in substance abuse treatment facilities and mental health clinics

Both Aod Counselors and Substance Abuse Counselors focus on addiction treatment, often requiring similar certifications and working in comparable environments. The main difference lies in terminology; 'Aod' (Alcohol and Other Drugs) is a broader term sometimes used interchangeably with 'Substance Abuse.' Understanding these nuances helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

How to become an AOD counselor?

To become an Alcohol and Other Drug (AOD) counselor, individuals typically need to complete a state-approved addiction counseling training program, accumulate a specified number of supervised clinical hours, and obtain certification or licensure such as the Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) or Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LADC). Requirements vary by state but generally include passing an exam and maintaining ongoing education to renew credentials.
More about Aod Counselor jobs

What cities are hiring for Aod Counselor jobs?

Cities with the most Aod Counselor job openings:

What states have the most Aod Counselor jobs?

States with the most job openings for Aod Counselor jobs include:

Infographic showing various Aod Counselor job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,978 per year, or $25.5 per hour.

AOD Support Staff II Registered MC

Volunteers of America

Bellflower, CA • On-site

$20.52 - $21.60/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 28 days ago


Volunteers Of America rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 129 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

371st of 785 rated non-profit organizations


Job description

About Us:

Southern California Alcohol and Drug Program

Southern California Alcohol and Drug Programs, Inc. (SCADP) was established in 1972 in a grassroots effort by community members seeking alternatives to prison for individuals with substance use disorder (SUD). SCADP is now a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization providing residential treatment services and outpatient counseling services to individuals throughout Los Angeles, as well as housing and supportive services for survivors of domestic violence. SCADP now offers services with a continuum of care to underserved and disadvantaged populations throughout the Los Angeles area.

PAY RATE: $20.52 - $21.60 Per Hour

BENEFITS: SCADP offers competitive medical, dental, vision and retirement benefits.

JOB SUMMARY AND PURPOSE

In training to be an AOD counselor, the AOD Support Staff II Registered - MC provides services to beneficiaries participating in treatment while monitoring the program premises for safety and security. The AOD Support Staff II participates in group counseling sessions and crisis management, has completed the education required to achieve certification, and is accumulating the work hours required. Monitors clients self-administration of prescribed medication, has knowledge of withdrawal symptoms and the ability to assist or call for required aid in crisis situations, under supervision of a certified AOD Counselor or licensed therapist.

Meets annual registration renewal requirements and submits annual renewal of Registration until Certification is earned.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • AOD COUNSELING
    • Under guidance and supervision of a Certified AOD Counselor, the AOD Support Staff II learns alcohol and drug counseling functions including screening, assessment, and intake; collects specimen from clients for drug and alcohol screening in accord with organization Policy and Procedures.
    • Collaborates with case manager and therapist to assist treatment and other plans; assists in required intervention; participates in group and educational sessions.
    • Completes discharge and transition plans and completes required Electronic Health Records (EHR).
    • Monitors client self administration of prescribed medication, keeps required treatment records and shift reports
    • Transports program participants in the company vehicle to offsite appointments, as needed.
  • PROGRAM Security
    • PROGRAM ENTRANCE MONITORING: The front door to the facility is the only permitted entrance and exit for participants, employees, partners, vendors, visitors or any other persons. Monitor entrance to permit only authorized persons entry (as per program guidance), in order to guard against theft and maintain security of premises. Record participant entry and exit as required by program rules.
    • BAG & PERSON SCREENING: Monitors search all participants belongings being brought into the Program each time a participant enters, including their pockets, while monitoring for any signs of substance use or bringing contraband into the program. This is a critical step in ensuring the safety and security of everyone. It is important to treat every participant with equal dignity and professionalism every time they are screened.
    • Monitor premises to prevent and detect signs of intrusion and ensure security of the program by walking the floor and monitoring surroundings when outside accompanying beneficiaries and making reports as needed.
  • PROGRAM SAFETY:
    • While monitoring premises and assisting clients, observe Program premises to ensure safe operations; report and correct any spills, unsafe working conditions, or defective equipment.
    • Know location of fire exits, be prepared to assist participants in case of any emergency.
    • Monitor clients and conduct room checks; maintain records of client compliance of program rules, report to clinical/case management staff, assist clinical/case management staff as required.
    • Call Police or Fire Department in cases of emergency, such as fire, medical or psychiatric issues, or presence of unauthorized clients/persons.
  • ASSET PROTECTION:
    • As a non-profit agency, VOALA must utilize all limited resources effectively and protect from theft loss or damage to the Programs assets. Report all suspicious events to direct supervisor.
    • Responsible to complete written reports and incidents logs of daily activities and irregularities, such as: unusual occurrences, equipment or property damage, theft, and presence of unauthorized persons.
  • ACT AS A ROLE MODEL FOR PARTICIPANTS AT ALL TIMES. Learn, understand and practice the professionalism expected Put clients/participants needs first.
  • CLIENT/PARTICIPANT SUPPORT:
    • Answer telephones and take messages for clients and staff, monitor doors and greet visitors.
    • Maintain office housekeeping; verifies all common areas, laundry areas and restrooms are clean and disinfected & fully operational
    • Monitor and records client self-administration of medication in accordance with organization Policies and Procedures
    • As required by the Program, assist Program staff during provision of services to clients/participants, including meal preparation/serving, set-up for classes, meetings, recreation, and other Program events.
  • Inputs required data to computer systems and logs (EHR and other databases as required)
  • Other duties that may arise to support the Program mission and goals.

ESSENTIAL ABILITY ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

Ability to work and deal with difficult, uncooperative, and potentially aggressive clients as SCADP serves the neediest of the needy in our programs, which may include clients with homelessness, mental illness, substance abuse, recently released from incarceration, and other challenges.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES:
  • Services for this position must be provided on-site. As a result, the position requires incumbents to report to work on-site each day of active employment.
  • Training in AOD Counseling:
    • Screening, assessment, and intake
    • Group and educational sessions
    • Provides one on one mentoring, support, assistance, and advocacy
    • Monitors client self administration of prescribed medication, keeps required treatment records and shift reports
  • PROGRAM SECURITY.
    • Monitor Program entrance
    • Screen bags and persons entering Program
    • Patrol premises as scheduled
  • PROGRAM SAFETY
    • Monitor Clients; conduct room checks; report violations of rules
    • While patrolling continuously observe for safe operations/conditions, report safety concerns
  • ASSET PROTECTION
    • Complete written reports and incidents logs of daily activities and irregularities, such as: unusual occurrences, equipment or property damage, theft, and presence of unauthorized persons
  • CLIENT/PARTICIPANT SUPPORT
  • Other duties as required and is subject to change at any time.
  • ACT AS A ROLE MODEL FOR PARTICIPANTS AT ALL TIMES.

MANDATED REPORTER

As service providers to the underprivileged and vulnerable in our community, all employees are considered Mandated Reporters, and must report any instance of physical or sexual abuse to proper authorities.

Qualifications

REQUIREMENTS:

  • Must be able to pass a fingerprint clearance, background check, including criminal history, personal references, employment and education verifications
  • Must be able to work flexible schedule especially during the evenings and weekends as required
  • Ability to perform under circumstances of possible emotional stress and conflicts dealing with difficult, uncooperative, and potentially aggressive clients as SCADP serves the neediest of the needy in our programs which may include clients with homelessness, mental-illness, substance abuse, recently released from incarceration and other challenges.

EDUCATION:

  • Registered and in good standing in an Alcohol and Drug Counseling Certification program by an approved accrediting organization (CCAPP, CADTP or CADEE)
  • Completed statutory AOD coursework requirements
  • Completed modules 1 and 2 of ASAM within 2 weeks of hire

EXPERIENCE:

  • 1 year of experience in mental health or substance abuse treatment

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

  • AA or higher degree in related field
  • Experience with Electronic Health Records (EHR)
  • Bi-lingual in Spanish and English (written and verbal)
  • Understanding of harm reduction (non-abstinence) approach with participant substance use
  • Willing to work with substance abuse clients, that may have mental health, LGBTQ and/or HIV/AIDS concerns

Southern California Alcohol and Drug Programs, Inc. (SCADP) is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected Veteran Status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

This employer participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.

If E-Verify cannot confirm that you are authorized to work, this employer is required to give you written instructions and an opportunity to contact Department of Homeland Security (DHS) or Social Security Administration (SSA) so you can begin to resolve the issue before the employer can take any action against you, including terminating your employment.


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