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Entry Level Substance Abuse Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Substance Use Therapist EMPACT

Tempe, AZ ยท On-site

$50K - $63K/yr

This is a great opportunity for an ENTRY LEVEL Substance Use Therapist to join our agency. The ideal candidate will have experience in substance abuse treatment and experience facilitating groups.

New

Substance Use Therapist EMPACT

Tempe, AZ ยท On-site

$50K - $63K/yr

This is a great opportunity for an ENTRY LEVEL Substance Use Therapist to join our agency. The ideal candidate will have experience in substance abuse treatment and experience facilitating groups.

New

This class is an entry-level position and supervision progresses over time, from close to more ... Substance Abuse Testing. Due to the safety and/or security sensitive nature of this classification ...

Police Service Assistant

Mesa, AZ ยท On-site

$33K - $49K/yr

Substance Abuse Testing. Due to the safety and/or security sensitive nature of this classification ... Other than Honorable * Entry Level * Bad Conduct * General * Current Active Duty * N/A 06 Have you ...

New

Assembly A

Tempe, AZ ยท On-site

$14.25 - $17.50/hr

... Entry-level support individual contributors or team members. Work is closely supervised. Work ... L3Harris maintains a drug-free workplace and performs pre-employment substance abuse testing and ...

Equipment Repair Assistant

Mesa, AZ ยท On-site

$42K - $57K/yr

This class is an entry-level position and supervision progresses over time, from close to more ... Substance Abuse Testing. Due to the safety and/or security sensitive nature of this classification ...

... City's Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) program, including HME training; pass the State ... Substance Abuse Testing: This class is subject to Department of Transportation (DOT) Federal Motor ...

Detention Officer I

Kingman, AZ ยท On-site

$55K - $64K/yr

This position involves entry-level security work in the custody, control and care and welfare of ... Evaluates and arranges special inmate programs was requested; haircuts, substance abuse meetings ...

Detention Officer I

Kingman, AZ ยท On-site

$55K - $64K/yr

Job Summary Work is performed at an entry level class in the Detention Officer series. This ... Evaluates and arranges special inmate programs was requested; haircuts, substance abuse meetings ...

Field Engineer Summer Intern 2027

Phoenix, AZ ยท On-site

$16.75 - $21.50/hr

As an Intern you will be given similar responsibilities as a full-time, entry-level Field Engineer ... a physical, and a substance abuse test each conducted by a third party PCL is an innovative ...

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Entry Level Substance Abuse information

What is an entry level substance abuse counselor?

Entry level substance abuse jobs are positions that assist individuals struggling with drug or alcohol addiction, typically without requiring extensive prior experience or advanced degrees. Common roles include substance abuse counselor assistant, behavioral health technician, or recovery support specialist. These professionals may help with client intake, provide support during treatment sessions, document client progress, and assist licensed counselors in developing care plans. Most entry level positions require at least a high school diploma and may offer on-the-job training or require some specialized certification. These jobs are crucial in supporting people on their journey to recovery and often serve as a stepping stone to more advanced roles in addiction counseling.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level substance abuse counselor?

To thrive as an Entry Level Substance Abuse Counselor, foundational knowledge in addiction counseling, basic interviewing techniques, and a bachelor's degree in psychology or a related field are typically required. Familiarity with case management software, electronic health records, and sometimes state certification or training programs is important. Compassion, active listening, and strong interpersonal skills help build trust and rapport with clients facing addiction challenges. These skills are crucial for delivering effective support, facilitating recovery, and ensuring compliance with legal and ethical standards.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level substance abuse counselors, and how can they be addressed?

Entry-level substance abuse counselors often encounter challenges such as managing emotionally intense sessions, building rapport with clients who may be resistant to treatment, and maintaining professional boundaries. It can also be demanding to navigate documentation requirements and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams. To address these challenges, new counselors benefit from regular supervision, ongoing training, and seeking support from experienced colleagues. Learning effective self-care strategies is also essential for maintaining personal well-being and professional effectiveness.

What is the difference between Entry Level Substance Abuse vs Entry Level Mental Health Technician?

AspectEntry Level Substance AbuseEntry Level Mental Health Technician
Required CertificationsCertified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) or similarCPR, First Aid, and sometimes mental health-specific certifications
Work EnvironmentRehabilitation centers, outpatient clinics, community programsHospitals, mental health facilities, residential treatment centers
Industry UsageFocuses on addiction treatment and recoveryFocuses on mental health support and patient care

Both roles often require similar certifications and work in healthcare or community settings. However, Entry Level Substance Abuse specialists primarily focus on addiction recovery, while Entry Level Mental Health Technicians support broader mental health needs. Understanding these differences helps job seekers choose the right career path within behavioral health services.

How long does it take to become an entry level substance abuse counselor?

Becoming an entry-level substance abuse counselor typically requires completing a minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by obtaining a relevant certification or associate degree, which can take about 1-2 years. Additionally, some states require supervised clinical experience and passing a licensing exam before starting in an entry-level role.

What can I do in the entry level substance abuse field with an associate's degree?

Entry-level positions in the substance abuse field with an associate's degree include roles such as substance abuse technician, case aide, or behavioral health technician. These jobs typically involve assisting clients, supporting treatment plans, and documenting progress, often requiring knowledge of counseling techniques and basic record-keeping skills.

What are the most commonly searched types of Substance Abuse jobs in Arizona?

The most popular types of Substance Abuse jobs in Arizona are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Substance Abuse jobs in Arizona?

For Entry Level Substance Abuse jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Arizona are hiring for Entry Level Substance Abuse jobs?

Cities in Arizona with the most Entry Level Substance Abuse job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Substance Abuse job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.

Substance Use Therapist EMPACT

La Frontera Empact

Tempe, AZ โ€ข On-site

$50K - $63K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post hasย expired today.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Who we are:

EMPACT- Suicide Prevention Center, part of the La Frontera family, is an industry-leading non-profit organization dedicated to providing valued community services and resources for behavioral health counseling, crisis intervention, and suicide prevention since 1987. We are an EEO/AA Employer.

What you'll do:

This is a great opportunity for an ENTRY LEVEL Substance Use Therapist to join our agency. The ideal candidate will have experience in substance abuse treatment and experience facilitating groups. *FLEXIBLE schedules available with NO WEEKEND shifts.

The position will require the individual to provide psychotherapy for the purpose of assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of adults and their families, individualizing these services to meet unique needs. The Substance Abuse Therapist will facilitate IOP, SOP, & Aftercare groups, using the agency Substance Abuse Program curriculum, which consists of a comprehensive, structured, step-down group program, and can also include individual and/or family therapy, as needed. The Substance Abuse Therapist will utilize community resources and referrals, as appropriate, to enhance and expand treatment.

What you'll provide:

  • Master's Degree in marriage and family therapy, counseling, or social work REQUIRED. AzBBHE Licensure is preferred.
  • Experience facilitating groups required.
  • Families First program experience is preferred.
  • Must have experience working with substance abuse populations.
  • Must be willing to complete reports and be punctual in corresponding with DCS, probation and others.
  • Ability to multi-task in a fast-paced environment and have good time management skills.
  • Must have good team collaboration skills.
  • Must have or be able to obtain a valid fingerprint clearance card.
  • Valid Arizona Driver's License, with no major infractions in the past three years is required.
  • Bilingual (Spanish speaking) is a plus. Bilingual Differential available.
  • Must be 21 years of age or older at the time of employment.

Additional Requirements and Responsibilities

  • Excellent oral and written communication skills.
  • Clear and effective communication.
  • Strong customer service.
  • Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
  • Ability to document detailed information.
  • Ability to multitask.
  • Demonstrated ability to remain calm in crisis situations, work independently and cooperatively, recognize personal limitations, and relate positively and with empathy to all persons regardless of age, race, creed, gender, or sexual orientation.
  • Maintain professional conduct consistent with ethical professional practice and the policies and procedures of the agency.
  • Maintain a professional demeanor while working remotely (from home) and positive working relationships with internal and external team members, stakeholders, and community and business partners.
  • If driving while on agency time or on agency business, a valid Arizona driver license and appropriate liability insurance and approval for liability coverage with EMPACT - SPC's liability insurance carrier is required. At time of hire, a 3-year state driving record with no major infractions or excessive driving violations/tickets is required.

What we'll offer:

(Full-time employees)

  • Generous PTO
  • 10 paid holidays per year
  • Medical plans (4 choices)
  • Dental plans (2 choices)
  • Vision plans (2 choices)
  • 403(b) retirement plan
  • Retirement Allowance
  • Company-paid Life/AD&D and Long-term Disability
  • Voluntary additional Life and Short-term Disability
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Licensure Reimbursement
  • Elder Care Assistance
  • Pet Insurance and much more!

EMPACT-SPC is licensed by the Arizona Department of Health Services and accredited by the American Association of Suicidology (AAS) and The Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF).

EMPACT-SPC/La Frontera Arizona provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

All employees of EMPACT-SPC and La Frontera Arizona are employees "at will" as that term is understood in the State of Arizona. This means that employment may be terminated at any time without prior notice and for no stated reason.

EMPACT-SPC/La Frontera Arizona reserves the right to modify position descriptions as needed and without notice. This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.