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Substance Abuse Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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

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 ...

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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Substance Abuse Assistant information

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$10

$67

$125

How much do substance abuse assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 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 experience or training in substance abuse counseling, and may be required to obtain certification or licensure as specified by state regulations. Strong communication skills and knowledge of addiction treatment are also important for the role.
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What cities are hiring for Substance Abuse Assistant jobs?

Cities with the most Substance Abuse Assistant job openings:

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

The most popular types of Substance Abuse jobs are:

What states have the most Substance Abuse Assistant jobs?

States with the most job openings for Substance Abuse Assistant jobs include:

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 2% As Needed, 75% 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 Counselor

Meridian, MS • On-site

Management and Training Corporation
5 - 10K employees
Learn more about Management and Training Corporationexternal

$16/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

Pay: $16.00

Location: 10641 US-80, Meridian, MS 39307

Status: Full Time

Benefit package includes:

  • Medical, vision, and prescription drug benefits
  • Dental benefits
  • Life insurance
  • Accidental death and dismemberment insurance
  • Short-term and long-term disability benefits
  • 401(k) retirement plan
  • Employee assistance program
  • Paid time off (PTO)
  • 9 paid holidays
  • Bereavement leave
  • Civic duty and military leave
  • Opportunities for job advancement

Ready for a meaningful career in criminal justice? Work with a purpose!  East Mississippi Correctional Facility located in Meridian, MS. is now hiring career-minded people to assist with securing the safety of our community while positively impacting the lives of those on the inside.

Position Summary:

Reports to the deputy warden, programs. Responsible for the implementation and maintenance of an effective alcohol and other drug abuse program with emphasis placed on awareness, prevention, staff training and networking with community resources in compliance with American Correctional Association (ACA) standards, Management & Training Corporation (MTC), and Mississippi Department of Corrections (MDOC) directives.

Essential Functions:

1. Develop and implement a system to promote the coordination and integration of the substance abuse prevention components with other facility programs.

2. Assess inmates with identified substance abuse problems; develop and implement a plan to

modify or control the behavior by working with inmates, counselors, instructors and the mental

health consultant, as appropriate.

3. Ensure the documentation of all assessments and plans are in inmates' medical records

regarding substance abuse problems.

4. Provide ongoing comprehensive training for all staff members in the substance abuse area with specific goals toward staff education and awareness, staff skills in identification and reporting substance abuse problems, individual staff member counseling skills and general team building throughout the facility.

5. Assist in providing substance abuse related materials and information in the health education

program and development of health services standing orders and facility operating procedures

regarding substance abuse.

6. Conduct substance abuse and tobacco cessation classes, group educational, peer support and other prevention sessions for inmates/staff.

7. Encourage awareness of substance abuse issues throughout the facility.

8. Develop linkages with community resources for substance abuse services.

9. Promote the development of positive social skills through modeling appropriate behaviors and

intervening when inappropriate behaviors are observed.

10. Maintain accountability of inmates and property; adhere to safety practices.

It is expected that the incumbent shall perform other duties as assigned within his/her capabilities as determined by management

Education and Experience Requirements:

Bachelor's degree in social work, counseling, psychology, criminology or related field required and where applicable, must possess appropriate certification. Two (2) years of substance abuse treatment experience preferred. Directly related experience may be considered in lieu of formal education requirements if approved by management. Valid driver's license in the state of Mississippi with an acceptable driving record required, unless waived by management.

Post Hire Requirements:

Must successfully complete annual in-service training requirements.

Management & Training Corporation (MTC) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, disabled status, veteran status, genetic information, national origin, or any other category protected by federal law. MTC participates in E-Verify. We strive to provide reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals with disabilities, including disabled veterans, in our job application and hiring process. If you are interested in employment opportunities with Management & Training Corporation and need assistance, please contact our staffing department through customersupport@mtctrains.com or 801-693-2888.

Learn more about Management & Training Corporation here

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