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Entry Level Substance Abuse Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

City of Alexandria

Police Officer I

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$75K/yr

This is the entry-level officer position, with potential for professional growth. Please read this ... Substance Abuse Illegal use of a controlled substance will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

City of Alexandria, VA

Police Officer I

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$75K/yr

This is the entry-level officer position, with potential for professional growth. Please read this ... Substance Abuse * Illegal use of a controlled substance will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

All JobsSubstance Abuse JobsEntry Level Substance Abuse JobsEntry Level Substance Abuse Jobs in Washington

Entry Level Substance Abuse information

See Washington salary details

$37.4K

$66.8K

$95.7K

How much do entry level substance abuse jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level substance abuse in Washington is $66,839.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,500.00 and $78,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 Washington?

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

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

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

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Substance Abuse jobs in Washington look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Substance Abuse jobs in Washington are:

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

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

Entry Level Substance Abuse jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Substance Abuse job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,839 per year, or $32.1 per hour.

Life Skills Facilitator

Washington, DC • On-site

Universal Healthcare Mgt Svcs Inc
See more jobs at Universal Healthcare Mgt Svcs Incexternal

$17/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

  
Life Skills Facilitator

General Description

The Life Skills Facilitator is responsible for assisting in the coordination of residential services as well as supervising male/female adolescents or “student residents” in a group home setting.  More specifically the Life Skills Facilitator is responsible for providing a range of skills building and resource development interventions to help strengthen the residents’ daily living skills and family/natural support system.  Life Skills Facilitators also track and report on the residents’ treatment progress and collaborate with other team members to promote treatment plan goals.  Life Skills Facilitators work under the direct supervision of the House Supervisors and Program Director. This position involves working with student residents who have DYRS and/or CFSA involvement; have experienced traumatic events; and may exhibit emotional disturbance and/or potentially volatile behaviors. Position requires availability to work irregular hours, including evening and/or weekend shifts.
 

Duties and Responsibilities

  1. Provides a nurturing environment, close intensive supervision, and security for group home residents.
  2. Employs relationship and counseling skills effectively.
  3. Works effectively within a multi-disciplinary team of service providers (RNs, therapists, etc.).
  4. Completes all resident service reports, plans and records in a timely and orderly manner in accordance with program procedures and funding contract standards.
  5. Meets regularly with the House Manager and/or Program Director for supervision.
  6. Performs other duties as assigned by the supervisors.
 
Qualifications

 

 A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university AND/OR entry level substance abuse education experience is preferred.  Consideration is also given to applicants with prior experience working with adolescents in a mental health or group home setting.  Applicants must also have the following knowledge, skills and abilities: 1) able to work in a multicultural/diverse environment; 2) communicate effectively both verbally and in writing; 3) able to work effectively on a team as well as independently; 4) basic computer skills and typing ability; 5) effectively monitor resident safety and de-escalate potentially volatile situations; 6) exercise tact, ethical discretion, good judgment and professionalism in working with residents, co-workers and external service partners.  Applicants must have the following clearances and certifications/licenses:
 

  1. Child Protection Clearance
  2. Criminal History Clearance
  3. Physical Examination/Drug Screening
  4. Emergency First-Aid/CPR Certification
  5. Food Handlers License
  6. High School Diploma
 
This position pays $17.00 per hour 

 
Work Environment

Universal Healthcare Management Services, Inc. (UHMS) provides and coordinates community-based behavioral health services that create a passionate path to empower children, youth, and families to overcome barriers and reach their fullest potential. UHMS offers a comprehensive list of services from our therapeutic group homes: counseling; medication management; substance abuse education; as well as skills building and resource development services. UHMS adheres to these Functions of Quality Practice:
  1. Engaging service partners, including the youth’s natural support system
  2. Assessing and understanding the youth/family’s situation
  3. Planning positive, life-changing interventions
  4. Implementing effective service
  5. Getting and using results to improve client progress and clinical practice.