The mission of AIDS Services of Austin (ASA) is to enhance the health and well-being of the community and people affected by HIV and AIDS. We recently established a patient-centered medical clinic providing life-affirming HIV, PrEP, primary care, and behavioral health services for at-risk persons in Central Texas. ASA services are located across three campuses in the greater Austin area. Our main campus houses the clinic, case management, insurance assistance, housing, food and nutrition services, and administrative services; the Jack Sansing Dental Clinic provides dental care to approximately 1,500 HIV-positive patients annually; and the Springdale location houses our Health Promotion programs that provide preventative and positive services for persons affected by HIV. For more than 32 years, ASA has provided a continuum of services to the greater Central Texas area.

With the guidance of the Testing and Linkage Program Manager, the Bilingual Prevention Specialist (BPS) will deliver HIV and STI testing and counseling services on-site at the agency and in the field in ASA’s mobile testing van or at community organizations. This individual serves as a dedicated team member who assists with linkage to medical and support services for clients who test positive and conducts outreach for program recruitment for the testing program. With compassion, the BPS provides focused services with specific intentions to connect with hard-to-reach populations or individuals at a higher risk for HIV and STIs. The Bilingual Prevention Specialist follows guidelines approved by the Department of State Health Services and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Ideal Candidate Profile

You’re friendly and outgoing - You’re a social butterfly. You will be out in the community engaging high-risk populations of color by helping them feel safe and comfortable to get tested.

You’re all about collaborative approach - You love teamwork. The Health Promotion team is a high functioning team and works closely together to deliver testing services in the most efficient and innovative ways.

You’re mission driven - You’re looking for a job that makes a difference. At ASA you will be an integral part in our community to help our clients build healthier futures and reduce stigma for people affected by HIV/AIDS.

A successful Bilingual Prevention Specialist must be able and willing to:

  • Advocate on behalf of clients and provide information about the availability of medical and other support services in the community.
  • Collaborate with community organizations, prevention staff, and volunteers to facilitate effective HIV prevention outreach activities and referrals to HIV programming and other social services.
  • Maintain regular communication with Early Intervention Services staff for timely follow-up, linkage, and documentation for referred clients.
  • Maintain strict client confidentiality standards per state and federal regulations.
  • Adhere to data entry policies and ensure accurate and timely data entry and documentation.
  • Refer clients to appropriate local community resources when conducting outreach and/or delivering prevention services.
  • Contribute to the design and implementation of innovative campaigns to reach individuals from focused populations.
  • Deliver HIV and STI testing and risk reduction counseling by utilizing Foundations of Counseling and Testing framework and approved testing technology.
  • Conduct HIV and STI outreach and recruitment by using innovative approaches such as harm reduction, recovery readiness, and motivational strategies in various community settings.

Qualifications and Requirements

  • High school diploma or GED required.
  • One (1) year of experience with mental health, substance abuse, or HIV disease/prevention required.
  • Bilingual (English and Spanish) required.
  • Must hold and be able to maintain a valid driver’s license and a safe driving record.
  • Must be willing and able to travel within and throughout Austin.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience working with individuals and communities of diverse cultures, ethnicities, socioeconomic backgrounds, sexual orientations, and gender identities and/or expressions preferred.
  • Access to a personal vehicle preferred.