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Substance Abuse Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Cape Fox SS

Substance Abuse Counselor

Camp Pendleton, CA

$70K - $72K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Obtain or provide relevant information that will facilitate treatment and assist in developing programs. Provide assessment of substance abuse and addiction. Identify and document medical ...

Clarvida

Substance Abuse Counselor

Long Beach, CA

$25 - $28/hr

Level of Supervision Given Substance Abuse Counselor I Does not supervise others Substance Abuse Counselor II May assist in orienting, training, assigning and reviewing work of other. Substance Abuse ...

Cape Fox Corporation

Substance Abuse Counselor

Camp Pendleton, CA · On-site

$70K - $72K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Obtain or provide relevant information that will facilitate treatment and assist in developing programs. * Provide assessment of substance abuse and addiction. * Identify and document medical ...

Salem City Schools

Substance Abuse Specialist

Salem, VA

$28.12 - $43/hr

Certified Substance Abuse Counselor (CSAC) or Certified Substance Abuse Counselor Assistant (CSAC-A) or certificate eligible is preferred, but not required. March 2024 SALEM CITY SCHOOLS IS AN EQUAL ...

Clarvida - California

Substance Abuse Counselor

Orange, CA · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Level of Supervision Given Substance Abuse Counselor I Does not supervise others Substance Abuse Counselor II May assist in orienting, training, assigning and reviewing work of other. Substance Abuse ...

Clarvida

Substance Abuse Counselor

Orange, CA

$25 - $28/hr

Level of Supervision Given Substance Abuse Counselor I Does not supervise others Substance Abuse Counselor II May assist in orienting, training, assigning and reviewing work of other. Substance Abuse ...

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How much do substance abuse assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for substance abuse assistant in the United States is $67.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.32 and $92.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a substance abuse assistant?

Substance Abuse Assistants are professionals who support counselors and therapists in helping individuals struggling with drug or alcohol addiction. They assist with client intake, maintain records, lead group activities, and provide encouragement to clients during their recovery process. While they do not typically provide therapy, they play a vital role in daily operations and client support within rehabilitation centers or community programs. Their work helps ensure that clients receive consistent care and guidance as part of their treatment plan.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a substance abuse assistant?

To thrive as a Substance Abuse Assistant, you typically need a background in psychology, counseling, or social work, along with relevant certifications or training in substance abuse treatment. Familiarity with client intake software, case management systems, and basic documentation tools is often required. Strong interpersonal skills, empathy, and the ability to maintain confidentiality are essential soft skills for building trust and rapport with clients. These skills ensure effective support for individuals struggling with addiction and contribute to positive treatment outcomes.

What are the most common challenges a substance abuse assistant faces when supporting clients in recovery programs?

Substance Abuse Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing clients’ fluctuating motivation levels, addressing relapses, and navigating emotional or behavioral crises. The role requires patience and strong communication skills to build trust and encourage consistent engagement with treatment plans. Additionally, balancing administrative duties—like maintaining accurate records and coordinating with counselors—while providing direct client support is a frequent part of the job. Working closely with a multidisciplinary team helps address these challenges and ensures comprehensive care for each client.

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

AspectSubstance Abuse AssistantSubstance Abuse Counselor
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; certification often preferredHigh school diploma; state certification or licensure often required; some roles require a master's degree
Work EnvironmentClinics, treatment centers, hospitals, community programsSimilar settings, often with more direct client therapy responsibilities
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by addiction treatment facilities, healthcare providersLicensed professionals working in similar environments, providing therapy and counseling
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for entry-level roles and support positionsCompared for licensed, client-facing therapy roles

Substance Abuse Assistants typically support treatment teams with administrative tasks and basic client support, requiring less formal education. Substance Abuse Counselors provide direct therapy and require licensure or certification. Both roles work in similar environments, but counselors have more advanced responsibilities and credentials.

How much do substance abuse assistants make?

Substance abuse assistants typically earn a median annual salary of around $30,000 to $40,000, depending on experience, location, and work setting. Entry-level positions may start lower, while those with certifications or specialized skills can earn higher wages. Salaries often increase with additional training and responsibilities in treatment facilities or healthcare environments.

What do you need to become a substance abuse assistant?

To become a substance abuse assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, relevant training or certification in substance abuse counseling, and sometimes a valid driver's license. Some positions may require prior experience working with individuals with substance use issues or in healthcare settings.
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What states have the most Substance Abuse Assistant jobs?

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Substance Abuse Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Substance Abuse Assistant 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 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $140,766 per year, or $67.7 per hour.

Substance Abuse Specialist

Westchester Medical Center

Valhalla, NY

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

 The Substance Abuse Specialist is a clinical staff member, who in addition to performing routine team duties, has lead responsibility for integrating dual-recovery treatment with ACT patients.  The Substance Abuse Specialist must have knowledge of substance abuse assessment, stage wise treatment, motivational interviewing, and harm reduction.   Competency must be demonstrated by at least 1 year of training and/or experience in integrated mental health and substance abuse assessment and treatment.

Responsibilities:

  • Formulates treatment plans for assigned caseload, prepare substance abuse assessments for all ACT patients, and write progress notes based on regular individual and/or group counseling sessions.
  • Conducts follow-up services with community supports, collaborate with treatment providers, and connect with patient supports to insure the continuation and success of rehabilitation services.
  • Connect patients to rehabilitation supports around the community in promoting recovery (outpatient substance abuse program, AA, NA).
  • Attends meetings and conferences around the community for the purpose of providing information about service goals and objectives, and to provide consultation on the special needs of patients.
  • Attends multi-disciplinary staff meetings to discuss and evaluate ongoing treatment and rehabilitation services for the patient and their families.
  • Provide clinical support and backup to other clinical staff as needed.
  • Provide on-call emergency consultation coverage as needed.
  • Perform other duties (not outlined above) as needed

Qualifications/Requirements:

Experience:

  • Knowledge of the dynamics of the disease of alcoholism and/or substance abuse, including both the

physical and psychological effects of alcohol and drugs, both to the patient and family members, and the modern methods for rehabilitative treatment;

  • Familiarity with the community, public and local agencies which provide services for patients with alcohol and substance abuse;
  • Ability to work with alcoholic and substance abuse clients in a manner which is dependable, consistent, supportive and sympathetic;
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with both lay and professional persons, and also with people from a wide range of socio-economic and ethnic backgrounds in a stressful environment;
  • Ability to communicate effectively orally and good writing skills;
  • Ability to evaluate a problem related to alcoholism and substance abuse, and assist clients and/or their families to arrive at solutions which are workable within their individual socioeconomic environment;

Education:  

Possess a Master’s degree in social work, psychology, rehabilitation counseling, or related field.

Licenses / Certifications: 

CASAC and NY Licensure (LCSW, LMSW, LMHC, or psychologist) preferred

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