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Substance Use Navigator Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

Care Navigator

Mobile, AL · On-site

$20.75 - $26.75/hr

Knowledge of substance use issues in the adult population * Knowledge of chronic medical condition in the adult population * Knowledge of cultural diversity * Knowledge of behavior management and ...

Care Navigator

AL · On-site

$16 - $20.50/hr

Knowledge of substance use issues in the adult population * Knowledge of chronic medical condition in the adult population * Knowledge of cultural diversity * Knowledge of behavior management and ...

Care Navigator

Mobile, AL

$16 - $20.50/hr

Knowledge of substance use issues in the adult population * Knowledge of chronic medical condition in the adult population * Knowledge of cultural diversity * Knowledge of behavior management and ...

Care Navigator

Mobile, AL · On-site

$16 - $20.50/hr

Knowledge of substance use issues in the adult population * Knowledge of chronic medical condition in the adult population * Knowledge of cultural diversity * Knowledge of behavior management and ...

Substance Use Navigator information

See Alabama salary details

$12

$20

$30

How much do substance use navigator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for substance use navigator in Alabama is $20.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.21 and $22.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a substance use navigator?

A Substance Use Navigator (SUN) is a professional who helps individuals struggling with substance use disorders connect with treatment and support services. They typically work in healthcare or community settings, providing guidance, resources, and encouragement to people seeking recovery. SUNs assess clients’ needs, coordinate care, and help reduce barriers to accessing treatment, such as insurance issues or finding appropriate programs. Their goal is to support individuals throughout their recovery journey and ensure they receive the necessary care and follow-up.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a substance use navigator?

To thrive as a Substance Use Navigator, you need a background in counseling, substance use disorder knowledge, and often a bachelor's degree in a related field, along with any required state certifications. Familiarity with electronic health records, case management systems, and referral networks is important for efficient client support. Strong interpersonal skills, cultural sensitivity, and motivational interviewing abilities help build trust and guide clients through recovery. These skills are vital for effectively connecting individuals to needed resources, supporting recovery, and improving health outcomes.

How does a substance use navigator collaborate with healthcare teams to support patients in recovery?

Substance Use Navigators work closely with multidisciplinary healthcare teams, including physicians, nurses, social workers, and behavioral health specialists, to ensure coordinated care for patients with substance use disorders. They act as a bridge between patients and providers, facilitating access to treatment resources, coordinating follow-up care, and advocating for patient needs. Navigators often participate in case conferences and maintain regular communication with team members to update care plans and address any barriers to recovery. This collaborative approach helps create a supportive environment and improves patient outcomes.

What is the difference between Substance Use Navigator vs Substance Use Counselor?

AspectSubstance Use NavigatorSubstance Use Counselor
Required CredentialsOften no formal certification, but may have certifications like Peer Support or relevant trainingLicensed or certified, such as CADC or LPC
Work EnvironmentCommunity outreach, hospitals, clinics, and recovery centersTherapy settings, clinics, outpatient or inpatient facilities
Employer & Industry UsageNonprofit organizations, healthcare providers, community programsRehabilitation centers, mental health clinics, private practices
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level roles, support services, and navigation assistanceProviding therapy, treatment planning, and counseling services

Substance Use Navigators primarily assist clients in accessing resources and navigating treatment options, often with less formal credentials. Substance Use Counselors provide direct therapy and treatment, requiring licensure or certification. Both roles are vital in addiction recovery but differ in scope, credentials, and work environment.

What are popular job titles related to Substance Use Navigator jobs in Alabama?

For Substance Use Navigator jobs in Alabama, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Substance Use Navigator jobs in Alabama look for?

The top searched job categories for Substance Use Navigator jobs in Alabama are:

What cities in Alabama are hiring for Substance Use Navigator jobs?

Cities in Alabama with the most Substance Use Navigator job openings:

Patient Navigator OUD - Case Management - FT - 1st Shift

Huntsville Hospital Health System

Huntsville, AL • On-site

$19.75 - $27/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago


Huntsville Hospital Health System rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 207 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

727th of 888 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Overview

The OUD (Opioid Use Disorder) Patient Navigator helps coordinate care for OUD patients with complex needs, assists with the transition from the hospital to home, and connects patients with necessary community resources to enhance the quality of life. The OUD Patient Navigator works with patients to ensure they understand the discharge instructions, reduce readmissions, reconcile medications, and assists the patient by coaching self-management of disease processes. The OUD Patient Navigator will also provide intervention opportunities to OUD focused resources for SA treatment.

Qualifications

Education:  Require BS degree in Social Work or related field

Experience:  Two years of Substance Abuse Counseling or Peer Support experience preferred. Comparable combination of education and experience will be considered.  Previous substance abuse counseling or hospital based social service experience very beneficial.

Additional Skills/Abilities:  OUD Patient Navigators are expected to demonstrate excellent communication skills, to be capable of working with a diverse population and to behave ethically and professionally.  OUD Patient Navigator interacts with professionals from many different community based organizations, so they must be able to collaborate well with others. 

Employment Type: OTHER

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