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Substance Abuse Jobs in Reno, NV (NOW HIRING)

SUD Counselor Telehealth - Zenova

Carson City, NV · On-site

$21.75 - $29.50/hr

Overview The Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Counselor provides evaluation, treatment, and ongoing support to individuals recovering from substance use disorders through telehealth services. This role ...

SUD Counselor Telehealth - Zenova

Carson City, NV · On-site

$21.75 - $29.50/hr

Overview The Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Counselor provides evaluation, treatment, and ongoing support to individuals recovering from substance use disorders through telehealth services. This role ...

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Substance Abuse information

See Reno, NV salary details

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$26

How much do substance abuse jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for substance abuse in Reno, NV is $20.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.74 and $21.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a substance abuse counselor?

Substance abuse counselors are professionals who help individuals struggling with addiction to drugs, alcohol, or other substances. They provide support through counseling, treatment planning, and recovery strategies to help clients overcome their dependencies. These counselors may work in rehabilitation centers, hospitals, private practices, or community organizations. They often collaborate with families, doctors, and other health professionals to create comprehensive care plans. Their main goal is to guide clients toward lasting recovery and healthier lifestyles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a substance abuse counselor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Substance Abuse Counselor, you need a solid understanding of addiction, counseling techniques, and mental health, typically supported by a relevant degree and state certification or licensure. Familiarity with case management systems, assessment tools, and documentation software is crucial for tracking client progress and maintaining compliance. Excellent interpersonal skills, empathy, and the ability to build trust are essential soft skills for motivating clients and supporting recovery. These competencies are vital to effectively guide individuals through treatment, foster lasting behavioral change, and ensure ethical, compliant care.

What are some common challenges faced by substance abuse counselors in their daily work?

Substance abuse counselors often encounter challenges such as managing high caseloads, addressing relapse among clients, and navigating complex emotional situations. Building trust with clients who may be resistant to treatment is a key aspect, as is maintaining professional boundaries while offering empathetic support. Counselors also collaborate closely with healthcare providers, social workers, and family members to create comprehensive treatment plans, which requires strong communication and organizational skills.

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

AspectSubstance AbuseSubstance Abuse Counselor
CredentialsNone required, but certifications can enhance job prospectsCertification or licensure often required (e.g., CADC, LADC)
Work EnvironmentHealthcare facilities, community clinics, hospitals, rehab centersRehab centers, outpatient clinics, hospitals, community organizations
Job RoleFocuses on the condition of substance abuse itselfProvides counseling, support, and treatment planning for clients

Substance Abuse refers to the condition involving harmful or hazardous use of substances, while a Substance Abuse Counselor is a professional who helps individuals overcome substance abuse issues through counseling and support. The counselor role requires specific credentials and involves direct client interaction, whereas substance abuse as a condition can be diagnosed and treated by various healthcare providers.

How to work in substance abuse?

To work in substance abuse, individuals typically need a relevant degree such as a bachelor's or master's in social work, psychology, or counseling. Certification or licensure, such as becoming a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LADC), is often required, along with strong communication and empathy skills. Experience in counseling, healthcare, or social services can also be beneficial.

What are the most commonly searched types of Substance Abuse jobs in Reno, NV?

The most popular types of Substance Abuse jobs in Reno, NV are:

What are popular job titles related to Substance Abuse jobs in Reno, NV?

For Substance Abuse jobs in Reno, NV, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Substance Abuse jobs in Reno, NV look for?

The top searched job categories for Substance Abuse jobs in Reno, NV are:

What cities near Reno, NV are hiring for Substance Abuse jobs?

Cities near Reno, NV with the most Substance Abuse job openings:

Infographic showing various Substance Abuse job openings in Reno, NV as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 61% Full Time, 31% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,051 per year, or $20.2 per hour.

SUBSTANCE ABUSE COUNSELOR 3

State of Nevada (NV)

Carson City, NV • On-site

$64K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 17 hours ago


State Of Nevada rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

39th of 50 rated states


Job description

***THIS RECRUITMENT MAY CLOSE WITHOUT FURTHER NOTICE DEPENDING ON THE NUMBER OF APPLICATIONS RECEIVED. APPLICANTS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY AS SOON AS POSSIBLE*** Job Summary The Department of Corrections is seeking to fill a Substance Abuse Counselor 3 (SAC3) in Indian Springs. The Substance Abuse Counselor provides direct supervision over the Substance Use Disorder Program at Southern Desert Correctional Center TRUST, supervising up to eight clinical staff.

SAC3 takes lead on training staff, completing fidelity audits, and growing the program in accordance with research. SAC3 will also engage in direct clinical work be it completing screenings, intakes, assessments or facilitation of group therapy as well as individual counseling. Substance Abuse Counselors perform professional duties in areas of screening, assessment, case management, education, and treatment of clients and perform related administrative duties and recordkeeping in accordance with the standards and requirements of the Nevada Board of Examiners for Alcohol, Drug and Gambling Counselors.

Essential Qualifications Licensure as an Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor by the Nevada Board of Examiners for Alcohol, Drug and Gambling Counselors and two years of experience as a journey level Substance Abuse Counselor which must have included leading treatment teams, conducting clinical counseling, and implementing an established substance abuse program; OR Licensure as an Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor by the Nevada Board of Examiners for Alcohol, Drug and Gambling Counselors and two years of experience as a Substance Abuse Counselor II in Nevada State service; OR Certification as an Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor (CADC) by the Nevada Board of Examiners for Alcohol, Drug and Gambling Counselors and five years as a journey level Substance Abuse Counselor as described above; OR CADC by the Nevada Board of Examiners for Alcohol, Drug and Gambling Counselors and five years of experience as a Substance Abuse Counselor II in Nevada State service. Job Duties Perform initial screenings and assessments of clients; review personal history files and court documents and conduct personal interviews; gather pertinent information with the use of screening and assessment instruments such as Nevada Risk Assessment System (NRAS), American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) and Diagnostic Statistical Manual (DSM) standards; diagnose and/or classify substance abusers, extent of alcohol and drug abuse and personality traits; determine classification, level of care, treatment needs and continuity of care. Prepare written treatment plans; monitor and document client progress in relation to treatment plans, goals and objectives and adjust level of care accordingly; document contacts and services; prepare assessment, discharge, and progress reports and summaries as required.

Plan, develop, organize and conduct alcohol and drug abuse cessation and prevention classes; prepare course curriculum based upon the goals and objectives set by the facility; conduct orientation and individual and/or group counseling, intervention, education and referral; facilitate crisis and behavior intervention to include referral for mental health services and/or other resources; consult with and utilize other services, agencies, resources and professionals as needed. Provide in-service training regarding counseling programs, education and services related to alcohol and drug abuse. Prepare statistical documentation and reports on caseload activities and services.

Maintain ethics and confidentiality standards according to regulation. Perform related duties as assigned. Under general direction, incumbents supervise the clinical practice of subordinate Substance Abuse Counselors; provide information and recommendations regarding clinical aspects of the program to management; facilitate therapeutic program activities; maintain program records and prepare periodic reports; provide technical guidance to professional program staff; and may provide direct treatment services to clients as required and as described in the series concept.

This is the supervisory level in the series. Accept clients for clinical admission as recommended by medical/mental health intake staff; review lesson plans and treatment plans to ensure adherence to core curriculum requirements; monitor quality of care through review and evaluation of case records and activities; monitor the progress of clients through consultation with case managers and participation in treatment team meetings. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities This job specification lists the major knowledge, skills and abilities of the job and is not all inclusive.

Incumbent(s) will be expected to have knowledge, skills and abilities from a previous level. Working knowledge of: the principles, practices, and methods of substance abuse counseling and education; facilities, programs, and related resources available for rehabilitation, education, and training of substance abusers; policies and procedures pertaining to legal, medical and mental health programs; leadership and decision-making skills. Ability to: oversee the day-to-day clinical practice of subordinate Substance Abuse Counselors; effectively lead a treatment team; communicate effectively in conflict situations; organize work flow to accomplish established objectives; delegate responsibility.

Recruiter Contact Information: Susan Ashley - q.ashley@admin.nv.gov The State of Nevada is an equal opportunity employer dedicated to building diverse, inclusive, and innovative work environments with employees who reflect our communities and enthusiastically serve them. All applicants are considered without regard to race, color, national origin, religion or belief, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, domestic partnership, genetic information (GINA), or compensation and/or wages. Please send direct Inquiries or correspondence to the recruiter listed on this announcement.


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About State of Nevada

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The State of Nevada isn't a company in the traditional sense, but rather a governing body that manages and directs the operations of the state of Nevada. Its headquarters are located in Carson City, NV, United States. The organisation is engaged in various sectors like education, transportation, business and industry, health and human services, conservation and natural resources, and many more. It is responsible for implementing and maintaining the law and order of the state, in addition to providing essential services to its residents.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Carson City, NV, US

Year founded

1864