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Entry Level Addiction Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

All JobsEntry Level Addiction JobsEntry Level Addiction Jobs in Colorado

Entry Level Addiction information

See Colorado salary details

$19.8K

$47.9K

$81.9K

How much do entry level addiction jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level addiction in Colorado is $47,938.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31,534.00 and $52,244.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Entry Level Addiction vs Entry Level Substance Abuse Counselor?

AspectEntry Level AddictionEntry Level Substance Abuse Counselor
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; certification may be preferredHigh school diploma or equivalent; certification or licensure often required
Work EnvironmentRehabilitation centers, clinics, community health programsRehabilitation centers, outpatient clinics, hospitals
Employer & Industry UsageUsed broadly in addiction treatment settingsSpecific role within addiction treatment teams
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level roles in addiction treatmentClarifying responsibilities and qualifications for entry-level counselors

Entry Level Addiction roles generally refer to basic positions in addiction treatment, often requiring minimal certifications. Entry Level Substance Abuse Counselors are more specialized, typically needing certification or licensure, and focus on providing counseling services. Both roles work in similar environments but differ in responsibilities and qualification requirements.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Addiction Counselor, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Addiction Counselor, you need a foundational knowledge of substance abuse treatment, basic counseling techniques, and typically a bachelor’s degree in psychology, social work, or a related field. Familiarity with case management software, documentation systems, and in some states, certification like CADC (Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor) is often required. Compassion, strong listening skills, and the ability to build trust with clients are essential soft skills in this role. These skills and qualifications are crucial for providing effective support, ensuring compliance, and fostering recovery in individuals struggling with addiction.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level addiction counselors, and how can they be managed effectively?

Entry-level addiction counselors often encounter challenges such as building trust with clients, managing emotionally charged situations, and maintaining appropriate professional boundaries. These challenges can be managed effectively through ongoing supervision, seeking support from experienced colleagues, and participating in regular training. It's also important to practice self-care and utilize available resources within the team to prevent burnout. Many organizations offer mentorship programs to help new counselors navigate these early hurdles and develop their skills.

What are entry level addiction jobs?

Entry level addiction jobs are positions in the field of addiction treatment and recovery that require minimal prior experience or education. These roles often include titles such as addiction technician, behavioral health aide, or support staff in treatment centers. Employees in these positions assist with daily care of clients, monitor behavior, provide support for recovery activities, and help maintain a safe environment. Entry level addiction jobs are a great way to start a career in substance abuse counseling and behavioral health, often providing on-the-job training and opportunities to advance.
What are the most commonly searched types of Addiction jobs in Colorado? The most popular types of Addiction jobs in Colorado are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Addiction jobs in Colorado? For Entry Level Addiction jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Addiction jobs in Colorado look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Addiction jobs in Colorado are:
What cities in Colorado are hiring for Entry Level Addiction jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Entry Level Addiction job openings:
Entry Level Addiction jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Addiction job openings in Colorado as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $47,938 per year, or $23 per hour.
Addiction Technician PRN (61756)

Addiction Technician PRN (61756)

Aurora Mental Health & Recovery

Aurora, CO • On-site

$22.04 - $36.36/hr

Other

Medical, Vision

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

Are you seeking ultimate flexibility and thrive in fast-paced, dynamic environments? Do you bring strong clinical skills and experience in substance use counseling? Aurora Mental Health & Recovery (AMHR) is looking for a dedicated, team-oriented PRN (as needed) Addiction Technician or Addiction Specialist to join our 24/7 Withdrawal Management team, working a minimum of two shifts per month. In this role, you'll play a key part in providing direct clinical care, managing the treatment milieu, and ensuring the safety and well-being of clients undergoing detoxification. Our multidisciplinary team, comprised of Shift Coordinators, Addiction Technicians/Specialists, Peer Specialists, Case Managers, and Outreach Drivers, delivers compassionate, acute care to individuals experiencing intoxication or withdrawal. If you're adaptable, collaborative, and committed to making a difference, we invite you to apply.

Available Shifts. This position is fully on-site, working 10.5-hour shifts, at least 2 shifts per month. Shifts include: 

  • Day, Sunday - Wednesday 6:00 am - 4:30 pm
  • Overnight, Sunday - Wednesday 8:30 pm - 7:00 am
  • Swing Shift, Sunday - Wednesday 12:30 pm - 11:00 pm
  • Day, Wednesday - Saturday 6:00 am - 4:30 pm
  • Overnight, Wednesday - Saturday 8:30 pm - 7:00 am
  • Swing Shift, Wednesday - Saturday 12:30 pm - 11:00 pm

Salary for this role. Starting wage is based on experience and company equity. Paid bi-weekly.

  • High School Degree with CAT or Bachelor's Degree: $22.04 - $33.07 per hour
  • Bachelor's Degree with CAS: $24.25 - $36.36 per hour

Shift Differential Pay. The Day weekend shift differential is paid from 7 am to 3 pm on Saturdays and Sundays only; the Swing shift differential is paid from 3 pm to 11 pm; and the Overnight shift differential is paid from 11 pm - 7 am 

  • Day Weekend (Sat, Sun): $1.50/hour 
  • Swing Weekday (Mon-Thurs): $1.50/hour 
  • Swing Weekend (Fri, Sat, Sun): $2.75/hour 
  • Overnight Weekday (Monday - Thursday): $2.75/hour 
  • Overnight Weekend (Friday, Saturday & Sunday): $4.00/hour 

Availability. This PRN role requires availability to complete initial inperson orientation and training during the scheduled onboarding week (Tuesday - Thursday), followed by up to eight (8) paid training shifts within the first two months, scheduled based on operational needs. To remain active in PRN status, employees are expected to work at least two shifts per month, with each shift lasting a minimum of five (5) hours, unless otherwise approved. 

Essential Functions:

  • Interact with a client population that is actively intoxicated and/or experiencing symptoms of withdrawal.
  • Provide guidance, safety, stability, and direction to clients.
  • Identify emergency signals and situations and reacts appropriately.
  • Perform accurate, legal, timely and ethical documentation at all times, including admissions and discharges, inventories and screening of clients personal belongings, and charting of all significant interactions with each client.
  • Monitor and document client vital signs, physical condition and behavior as needed. Enters data using Electronic Health.
  • Record and Microsoft office product software.
  • Monitor/observe Urinalysis (UA) or Breath Alcohol (BA) tests as needed and documents appropriately.
  • Monitor the facility to insure it is maintained in a neat and orderly manner and that all outside doors remain secured.
  • Dispose of biohazard waste according to OSHA standards.
  • Refer client to supportive services to supplement treatment and counseling when needed.
  • May assist in transporting admitted clients to hospitals, aftercare, or other approved services as directed by the Shift Supervisor.
  • Staff member will complete needed care coordination tasks for their assigned role.

Requirements:

  • Current CPR/First Aid Certification or ability to obtain within six months of hire.
  • Preferred: Qualified Medication Administration Person (QMAP).
  • Preferred: Bilingual in Spanish and English.
  • Preferred: Valid Colorado Driver's License with a driving record that meets organization's requirements.
  • Technician Requirements:
    • High School diploma with Certified Addiction Technician (CAT) actively registered with Colorado Department of Regulatory Affairs (DORA) or Bachelors’ degree with plan to obtain CAT credential within 18 months from hire date. 
    • Entry level position - zero to six months experience.
  • Specialist Requirements:
    • CAS (Certified Addiction Specialist) actively registered with Colorado Department of Regulatory Affairs (DORA) is required.
    • Six months' work experience in behavioral health or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Required Vaccination and TB Test.

At AMHR the health and safety of our clients and staff are our top priorities. As part of this commitment, all employees are required to receive an annual influenza (flu) shot and present a negative TB test result before their first day of work. Proof of both the flu shot and negative TB test must be provided on your first day of employment. Medical and religious exemptions can be requested if necessary.

Benefits:

  • Accrued Sick Pay
  • Employee Assistance Program

Our Mission, Vision and Core Values.

Mission: Deeply rooted in our diverse community, we deliver state-of-the-art care and meaningful outcomes that impact emotional well-being and addiction recovery.

Vision: To foster hope and healing through compassionate, quality care.

Core Values: Passionate caring; Rising to the challenge; Honoring and respecting all persons; Believing in resilience; Putting clients and community first; Commitment to collaboration and teamwork

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Aurora Mental Health & Recovery and its subsidiaries (AMHR) are dedicated to the principles of equal employment opportunity. We prohibit unlawful discrimination against applicants or employees on the basis of age 40 and over, race (including traits historically associated with race, such as hair texture and length, protective hairstyles), sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, color, religion, national origin, disability, military status, genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable state or local law. We do not tolerate discrimination in any form or context, including harassment or exclusion.

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