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Substance Use Jobs in Portland, ME (NOW HIRING)

THERAPIST

Portland, ME ยท On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

Substance Use Master's degree (preferred) or a minimum of a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Psychology, Social Work, Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Substance Use or ...

THERAPIST

Portland, ME ยท On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

Substance Use Master's degree (preferred) or a minimum of a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Psychology, Social Work, Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Substance Use or ...

THERAPIST

Portland, ME ยท On-site

$55K - $86K/yr

Substance Use Master's degree (preferred) or a minimum of a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Psychology, Social Work, Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Substance Use or ...

Licensed Counselor (LPC, LCSW

Portland, ME ยท On-site

$59K - $81K/yr

Licensed Substance Use Disorder Counselor Full-Time Biddeford, Maine ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION SaVida Health is a specialty medical practice providing outpatient opiate and alcohol addiction treatment ...

Licensed Counselor (LPC, LCSW

Biddeford, ME ยท On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

Licensed Substance Use Disorder Counselor Full-Time Biddeford, Maine ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION SaVida Health is a specialty medical practice providing outpatient opiate and alcohol addiction treatment ...

Licensed Counselor (LPC, LCSW

Biddeford, ME ยท On-site

$61K - $83K/yr

Licensed Substance Use Disorder Counselor Full-Time Biddeford, Maine ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION SaVida Health is a specialty medical practice providing outpatient opiate and alcohol addiction treatment ...

Licensed Counselor (LPC, LCSW

Portland, ME ยท On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

Licensed Substance Use Disorder Counselor Full-Time Biddeford, Maine ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION SaVida Health is a specialty medical practice providing outpatient opiate and alcohol addiction treatment ...

Substance Use: CRSS certification and above (preferred or willing/able to obtain). CAC, CAP, LMHC, LCSW or Registered Intern with active clear license or certification in good standing. Experience ...

Recovery Specialist

Auburn, ME ยท On-site

$17/hr

Recovery Specialists are paraprofessional staff members who work closely with residential clients in early recovery from substance use disorders. Recovery Specialists serve as a positive recovery ...

Showing results 21-40

Substance Use information

See Portland, ME salary details

$33.8K

$60.4K

$86.5K

How much do substance use jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for substance use in Portland, ME is $60,378.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,100.00 and $70,600.00 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 are popular job titles related to Substance Use jobs in Portland, ME?

For Substance Use jobs in Portland, ME, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Substance Use jobs in Portland, ME look for?

The top searched job categories for Substance Use jobs in Portland, ME are:

What cities near Portland, ME are hiring for Substance Use jobs?

Cities near Portland, ME with the most Substance Use job openings:

Infographic showing various Substance Use job openings in Portland, ME as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 7% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 2% Temporary. Highlights an 93% In-person, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,378 per year, or $29 per hour.

Research Analyst II - Substance Use Research and Evaluation Team (SURE)

Maine's Public Universities

Portland, ME โ€ข On-site

$55K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


Job description


The Catherine Cutler Institute at the University of Southern Maine is seeking a Research Analyst II to work with the Substance Use Research and Evaluation Team (SURE).
The Research Analyst II works with the Substance Use Research and Evaluation Team (SURE) to improve the well-being of individuals, families, and communities impacted by substance use and behavioral health challenges. The Research Analyst II works in a team environment and supports the implementation of technical assistance, research, and evaluation activities across a portfolio of projects. Job duties include participating in study design, data collection, data management, qualitative and quantitative analysis, reporting, and dissemination activities as well as supporting project management components necessary for a variety of research activities. The Research Analyst II exercises professional judgment in selecting and applying research methods, contributes to project planning and proposal development, and serves as a liaison with external partners and stakeholders.
The position regularly develops research protocols and data collection instruments, analyzes and interprets findings, prepares reports and presentations for diverse audiences, and contributes to grant writing activities. The Research Analyst II works collaboratively with the Principal Investigator and Project Director while independently carrying out project responsibilities and providing guidance to research assistants, students, and other project staff as appropriate.
This is a grant funded position with a starting annual salary up to $55,000. This is an in person, full-time position located on our Portland Campus.
The University of Southern Maine offers highly competitive benefits for full-time and eligible part-time employees that includes (but is not limited to):
  • 13 paid holidays plus earned vacation time and sick time.
  • Health, dental and vision insurance.
  • Low-cost short-term disability insurance and employer-paid long-term disability insurance.
  • Employer-paid basic life insurance and supplemental life insurance.
  • A tuition waiver program for employees and their spouse or dependent child(ren).
  • A 403(b)-retirement plan with employer contribution.
  • Free access to the METRO system, including the Husky Line with service between our Portland and Gorham campuses.

To learn more, please review the Benefits Information Summary.
The University of Southern Maine is a vibrant academic community located in the greater Portland, Maine area, including campuses in Portland, Gorham, Lewiston, and online. USM is part of the University of Maine System and offers a comprehensive array of undergraduate and graduate programs, emphasizing hands-on learning, community engagement, and interdisciplinary collaboration. With a highly engaged student-centered learning environment, USM is a steward of higher education, helping drive the economic, cultural, and civic life in the communities where our campuses are located and beyond. USM is committed to providing expanded access to high-quality education that elevates economic opportunity and contributes significantly to the vitality of a diverse society. To learn more about USM, visit About Our University.
The University of Southern Maine fosters a welcoming and supportive campus environment that respects and appreciates varied perspectives, enhancing teaching, learning, personal growth, and overall institutional achievement. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds who share our dedication to academic excellence and the enrichment of our community.
We are dedicated to our Service Promise, Student Focused Every Day and seek a team member who embraces this commitment and upholds our core values of Respect & Care, Integrity, Equity, and Responsiveness.
Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree and five years relevant experience or Master's degree and one year relevant experience.
  • Knowledge and understanding of U.S. health care system, health policy and/or public health.
  • Demonstrated project management skills.
  • Demonstrated competence in the use of Microsoft software applications.
  • Demonstrated qualitative and quantitative analysis skills.
  • Demonstrated organizational, work management, and group process skills, ability to take initiative to identify and propose new tasks and procedures.
  • Communication skills and the ability to work independently and collaboratively.
  • Knowledge of rules governing confidential data and requirements of the University IRB processes.

To apply, click on the 'Apply Now' button below or visit our USM Careers Page and submit the following:
  • Cover Letter
  • Resume/Curriculum Vitae
  • Finalist candidates will be asked to provide a list of the names and contact information for references.

For full consideration please submit all required materials by August 23, 2026.
We are not able to consider applicants who require Visa sponsorship support.
Appropriate background screening will be conducted for the successful candidate.
The University of Maine System (the System) is an equal opportunity institution committed to fostering a nondiscriminatory environment and complying with all applicable nondiscrimination laws. Consistent with State and Federal law, the System does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, transgender status, gender, gender identity or expression, ethnicity, national origin, citizenship status, familial status, ancestry, age, disability (physical or mental), genetic information, pregnancy, or veteran or military status in any aspect of its education, programs and activities, and employment. The System provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. If you believe you have experienced discrimination or harassment, you are encouraged to contact the System Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX Services at 5713 Chadbourne Hall, Room 412, Orono, ME 04469-5713, by calling 207.581.1226, or via TTY at 711 (Maine Relay System). For more information about Title IX or to file a complaint, please contact the UMS Title IX Coordinator at www.maine.edu/title-ix/.
Clery Act
The Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, or Clery Act, mandates that all Title IV institutions, such as the University, prepare, publish, and distribute an Annual Security Report (ASR), and provide notice of the availability of the ASR to all prospective employees. This report consists of two basic parts: disclosure of the University's crime statistics for the past three calendar years; and disclosures regarding the University's current campus security policies. View the University's Annual Security Report (PDF). If you wish to have a paper copy of the ASR or need to have a copy of the ASR in an accessible format, the University will provide such a copy upon request. Please contact our Public Safety Office at 207.780.5211.