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Substance Use Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Substance Use Specialist

Broadview, IL ยท On-site

$50K - $54K/yr

Specialist will work with clients to help them understand their substance use and help them make decisions that will lead to stable housing and improved mental and physical health. Provides ...

Substance Use Counselor

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$35K - $42K/yr

Substance Use Program Reports to: Carlos Freytes Job Type: Full-Time, Hourly, Non-Exempt Job Location: Chicago Metropolitan Area Salary Range: $35,000 to $42,000 Dependent on certification and ...

Substance Use Counselor

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$35K - $42K/yr

Substance Use Program Reports to: Carlos Freytes Job Type: Full-Time, Hourly, Non-Exempt Job Location: Chicago Metropolitan Area Salary Range: $35,000 to $42,000 Dependent on certification and ...

Substance Use Counselor

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$52 - $78/hr

The Substance Use Counselor must be able to communicate effectively with participants and maintain linkage with related organizations.ESSENTIAL DUTIESProvides a minimum of 22 hours of direct clinical ...

Chicago IL 60619 Job Summary The Substance Use Services Therapist will provide integrated dual disorder treatment (IDDT) to clients across all levels of care. They will provide client-centered ...

Substance Use Specialist

Broadview, IL ยท On-site

$50K - $54K/yr

Specialist will work with clients to help them understand their substance use and help them make decisions that will lead to stable housing and improved mental and physical health. Provides ...

The Substance Use Case Manager provides culturally competent case management services for clients who are in need of substance use and/or mental health services. The Case Manager works in ...

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Substance Use information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$34K

$60.8K

$87K

How much do substance use jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for substance use in Chicago, IL is $60,793.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,500.00 and $71,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a substance use counselor?

A substance use counselor is a professional who helps individuals struggling with drug or alcohol addiction. They provide support through assessment, treatment planning, counseling sessions, and recovery strategies. Substance use counselors may work in various settings, such as rehabilitation centers, hospitals, or private practices, and often collaborate with other healthcare professionals. Their goal is to guide clients toward recovery and help them develop healthier coping mechanisms.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a substance use counselor?

To thrive as a Substance Use Counselor, you need a background in psychology, social work, or counseling, often supported by state licensure or certification in addiction counseling. Familiarity with treatment planning software, electronic health records (EHRs), and evidence-based intervention techniques is typically required. Outstanding interpersonal skills, empathy, and strong communication abilities are essential for building trust and supporting clients through recovery. These competencies are crucial for effectively guiding individuals through treatment, ensuring ethical care, and fostering positive outcomes in challenging environments.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals working in substance use counseling, and how can they be effectively managed?

Substance use counselors often encounter challenges such as managing client relapse, navigating complex co-occurring mental health disorders, and maintaining clear professional boundaries. Building strong therapeutic alliances, participating in regular supervision, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams can help address these difficulties. Ongoing training in trauma-informed care and self-care strategies are also essential for sustaining effectiveness and personal well-being in this emotionally demanding field.

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

AspectSubstance UseSubstance Use Counselor
CredentialsVaries; often no formal certificationCertification required (e.g., CADC, CSAC)
Work EnvironmentCommunity clinics, hospitals, outreach programsRehabilitation centers, clinics, private practice
Industry UsageRefers to the issue or topic of substance useRefers to professionals providing treatment and support

Substance Use describes the issue or behavior related to the consumption of substances, while a Substance Use Counselor is a trained professional who provides treatment and support for individuals struggling with substance use problems. The counselor's role involves assessment, counseling, and developing recovery plans, whereas Substance Use refers to the broader topic or problem itself.

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Substance Use jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Substance Use job openings:

Infographic showing various Substance Use job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,793 per year, or $29.2 per hour.

Substance Use Specialist

Housing Forward

Broadview, IL โ€ข On-site

$50K - $54K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

Description:

JOB SUMMARY: 

Specialist will work with clients to help them understand their substance use and help them make decisions that will lead to stable housing and improved mental and physical health. Provides appropriate referral when assessed to need medical, psychiatric, dental evaluation/care. 


JOB RESPONSIBILITIES: 

  • Maintain an active caseload of 15 clients. 
  • Assessing clients to identify substance use issues and developing a plan to help clients set appropriate goals regarding issues.  
  • Preparing and facilitating group counseling sessions, educational programs, and to assist clients in meeting therapeutic goals. 
  • Conducting individual counseling to provide crises intervention, support & guidance, and address client behaviors and personal problems. 
  • Visiting clients in their place of residence to assess the impact of their use on their ability to maintain independent living and carry out activities of daily living. 
  • Documenting clients’ progress and responses to treatment. 
  • Maintaining client records; ensuring records are complete, accurate, and up to date. 
  • Helping clients to be aware of safety measure including overdose precautions ensuring client safety and well-being. 
  • Scheduling, coordinating, and transporting clients to appointments including medical assisted treatment and other services. 
  • Coordinate treatment plans and goals with primary case managers or other staff as indicated. 
  • Develop and maintain relationships with external service providers including treatment facilities, recovery homes, outpatient programs, and medical assisted treatment facilities  
  • Provide referrals to above facilities as well as self-help programs such as NA, AA, and other peer-led programs. 
  • Keep abreast of developments in the substance use field and provide updates to staff and at least twice a year provide a workshop on a relevant topic. 
  • Other duties as assigned. 
Requirements:

QUALIFICATIONS: 

  • Bachelor’s or master degree in psychology; social work or counseling required. Clinical licensure preferred. One to two year prior social service experience; relevant Mental Health and/or Substance Abuse experience required or internship/practicum. 
  • CADC preferred. 
  • Experience in substance use preferred. 
  • Must be service oriented, empathetic, and able to interact and develop rapport with a diversified population. 


KEY COMPETENCIES: 

  • Must have the clinical skills necessary to identify and assess problems related to or caused by substance use or dependence. 
  • Must have good oral and written communication skills. 
  • Basic knowledge of computer and Microsoft applications. 
  • Bilingual/bicultural preferred (Spanish/English). 
  • Must be aware of different cultures. 
  • Must be able to transport clients in your vehicle. 
  • Must have a car, valid drives license and proof of insurance. 
  • Must have smartphone to utilize Agency communication and collaboration tools. 


PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: 


The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use hands and talk or hear. The employee is frequently required to stand; walk; sit; reach with hands and arms balance, stoop, kneel or crouch, drive, climb up and down stairs. 


Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position. 


Job descriptions are not intended and should not be construed to be all-inclusive lists of all responsibilities, skills, efforts or working conditions associated with a job. While this job description is intended to be an accurate reflection of the job requirements, management reserves the right to modify, add or remove duties from particular jobs and to assign other duties, as necessary. This job description does not constitute a written or implied contract of employment. 


Housing Forward does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, citizenship, ethnic or national origin, age, disability, medical status, military status, veteran status, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, ancestry, or any legally protected status. This policy applies to all employment practices within our organization, including hiring, recruiting, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, leave of absence, compensation, benefits and training. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, veteran status, national origin, or disability.