Under the supervision of the Senior Program Supervisor, the Prevention Specialist will deliver HIV, HCV and STI testing, interventions and referrals to CoC at-risk individuals within Westchester, Rockland and Putnam Counties. The position for Lower Hudson is based in HVCS Hawthorne office and entails travel in Westchester, Rockland and Putnam. Staff may travel within all seven counties and provide some weekend hours. 

  • Conduct outreach to high risk CoC at the community level as well as within drug rehabilitation centers, shelters, soup kitchens, and other community based organizations in order to publicize program services as well as recruit potential clients.
  • Provide HIV/HCV/STI counseling, testing and other support service referrals, interventions and partner services to at risk clients and their partners.
  • Provide health education and risk reduction prevention interventions and services.
  • Completes documentation in a clear and comprehensive manner which is in compliance with agency and program standards and policies and procedures.
  • Complete data entry into the AIRS system, data should be entered correctly for each intervention and service. Data must be entered in a timely manner.
  • Formulate a schedule of regular outreach and recruitment activities using a variety of methods including: social networking strategies, electronic and web-based social media, presentations to service providers and the establishment of mutually beneficial relationships with key community members.
  • Conduct groups and events that provide health education and risk reduction strategies.
  • Provide HIV/HCV/STI testing, screening and referrals.
  • Provide health education and harm/risk reduction counseling for clients.
  • Make referrals for clients in need of medical care, mental health, substance use and other support services.
  • Conduct screening, intake, enrollment and follow-up of clients in the program and enter client data into the agencys AIDS Institute Reporting Service (AIRS) in a timely manner consistent with agency policies.
  • Ensure compliance with chart requirements in accordance with department/agency policy and procedures.
  • Work collaboratively with other staff members to facilitate and enhance service delivery to clients.
  • Engage in weekly supervision with the Supervisor to ensure continuing adherence to standards and best practices.
  • Complete the mandated continuing education trainings as selected and scheduled by the Program Supervisor.
  • Assist in program coverage when required.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

  • Bachelors degree in education, health, human services or related field.
  • Or an Associates Degree with two years of experience in HIV/AIDS counseling and/or disease prevention, & Harm Reduction will be considered.
  • Or High School Diploma with four years of experience in peer education, HIV/AIDS counseling and/or disease prevention will be considered.
  • Knowledge of HIV/STDs and HCV, harm reduction and community resources, counseling and prevention.
  • Experience in outreach events and activities.
  • Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred.

Requirements

  • Must have a valid, unrestricted driver’s license and independent means of transportation for frequent travel to locations throughout the assigned county as well as to the offices of Hudson Valley Community Services (HVCS).
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is required to lift and/or move up to 10 lbs. Must be capable of standing for long periods of time, and able to climb steps, balance, kneel, crouch or crawl to complete his/her duties. Reasonable accommodations will be made for individuals with disabilities to perform his/her essential job duties.