ADDICTION SPECIALIST II/ADDICTION COUNSELOR-CMHHIP
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ADDICTION SPECIALIST II/ADDICTION COUNSELOR-CMHHIP
Salary
$67,980.00 - $95,160.00 Annually
Location
Pueblo, CO
Job Type
Full Time
Job Number
IIB 01225 02/10/2026
Department
Colorado Department of Human Services
Division
OBH - CMHIP
Opening Date
02/10/2026
Closing Date
3/2/2026 11:59 PM Mountain
FLSA
Determined by Position
Type of Announcement
This position is open only to Colorado state residents.
FLSA Status
Exempt; position is not eligible for overtime compensation.
Department Contact Information
ellie.cassio@state.co.us
Primary Physical Work Address
In person at Colorado Mental Health Hospital @ Pueblo 1600 W 24th Street Pueblo, CO 81003
How To Apply
Please submit an online application for this position at https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/colorado. Reach out to the Department Contact to apply using a paper application, including any supplemental questions. Failure to submit a complete and timely application may result in the rejection of your application. Applicants are responsible for ensuring that application materials are received by the appropriate Human Resources office before the closing date and time listed.
Description
Benefits
Questions
Department Information
This position is open to current Colorado residents only.
Please note: This recruitment may be used to fill multiple vacancies.
Colorado Mental Health Hospital in Pueblo (CMHHIP)
As a cornerstone of the Pueblo community for over a century, Colorado Mental Health Hospital in Pueblo (CMHHIP) is a leading employer, provider of quality mental health services, and a community partner. CMHHIP is a 24 hour behavioral health acute care facility that is intended to provide a safe, secure, and therapeutic setting for patients with both psychiatric and medical issues. The services provided include evaluation and treatment for patients who are severely mentally ill, and the goal of this facility is to return patients to their optimal level of functioning and assist them in returning to the community as appropriate.
Description of Job
This position is full time on-site at CMHHIP, Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Please note: These working arrangements are subject to change. (https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/18VM-f07ifFxF2PChGs2Jh-yRLYu3n7P8-wxWEUh8WF8/edit?usp=sharing)
About the Position:
The purpose of the Addiction Specialist II position is to provide substance use disorder treatment, education, and assessment to the patients of CMHHIP. Work involves the scheduling, facilitation, and documentation of substance use disorder groups, individual counseling, and substance use assessments. Certification as a Certified Addiction Specialist (CAS) is required for this position. Duties in this position include:
Group and Individual Counseling/Documentation:
Provide ongoing advanced psychotherapy to patients in individual and group settings
Enhance positive mental health growth and stability to achieve and maintain a drug-free lifestyle
Facilitation of evidenced based substance use treatment groups and individual therapy to address patient substance use risk factors
Provide AOD services in a multidisciplinary and interprofessional setting
Maintain CRC continuum of care including updating group completion, substance use assessments, and all documentation in the electronic health record
Case Management:
Develop complementary relationship with CMHHIP treatment teams in order to ensure appropriate patient assignment and participation in CRC substance use treatment
Communicate with treatment team and participate in meetings with the multidisciplinary team
Collaborates with patient provider and unit Social Worker to ensure patients in need of AOD treatment are able to work towards group completion and reduction of risk factors
Advise treatment team of anticipated treatment duration and recommended course of treatment
Conduct Substance Use Assessments:
Formulate Substance Use Assessments when ordered by a patient treatment team/ provider
Interview patient and utilize ASAM continuum assessment tool and Addiction Severity Index 5th edition to determine problem areas and a comprehensive set of guidelines for placement, continued stay and transfer/discharge of patients with addiction and co-occurring conditions
Provide professional recommendation of CRC group/individual substance use treatment in order to address substance history and risk factors
Treatment Team Participation/Consultation and Other Duties as Assigned:
Participate and consult with assigned patient/unit treatment teams to ensure patient substance use treatment needs are being addressed
Provide recommendations for patient progression/regression and actively advise the disposition committee
Offer recommendation for AOD toxicology (UA), Breathalyzer (BA), quarterly hair test, and or drug patch
Performs other duties as assigned to support team objectives and organizational goals
In an event of an emergency, may assist in transporting patients
Minimum Qualifications, Substitutions, Conditions of Employment & Appeal Rights
Minimum Qualifications:
Applicant must possess a current, valid certification from the State of Colorado as:
a Certified Addiction Specialist (CAS) OR
an Addiction Counselor Candidate (AC-C) OR
a Licensed Addiction Counselor (LAC)
Preferred Qualifications:
Experience working with mental health/Substance Use Disorder and dual diagnosis population
Conditions of Employment
Full background check and reference check required
This position requires State of Colorado residency at the time of application (unless otherwise identified in the posting), and residency within the state throughout the duration of employment in this position
Motor Vehicle Check , if the employee will drive a state-owned vehicle, either in an on-going capacity while performing their normal day-to-day job duties OR on occasion for training/meetings/client visits/etc.
Must possess a valid, non-restricted Colorado Driver's License or an non-restricted U.S. Driver's License for positions within 30 miles of the CO state border
Out-of-State Driver's License holders must obtain a valid, non-restricted Colorado Driver's License within 30 days of employment start date
Other Conditions of Employment specific to Program
Former State employees who were disciplinarily terminated or resigned in lieu of termination must:
Disclose that information on the application.
Explain why the prior termination or resignation should not disqualify you from the current position.
Provide your employee number from your prior State employment. Absent extraordinary circumstances, prior disciplinary termination or resignation in lieu of termination and failure to provide this information will disqualify the applicant from future State employment with CDHS.
Shall not initiate or engage in sexual, social, personal or financial relationships with patients either during or anytime after hospitalization, even if the patient requests or initiates such a relationship. All relationships with current or former patients must be disclosed on your application
Successfully pass all modules of the CMHHIP New Employee Orientation core curriculum to include English reading comprehension, relevant competency assessments and written/practical exams in Defensive Tactics
Possess the physical ability to successfully complete CTI and CPR
Lift arms above head and kick as high as own waist
Stabilize another person to accomplish a controlled containment to the floor
Withstand impact on own body using an ASP shield
Rotate body 90 degrees with feet planted for using a defensive tactic
Kneel on one or both knees and stand up again with multiple repetitions
Must be able to see and hear in order to observe, address and respond to potential breaches in safety
Seize, hold, control or subdue violent or assaultive persons and defend oneself or others to prevent injury
Demonstrate body agility, strength of all four limbs and the ability to walk and climb stairs consistently
Work in situations involving assaultive behavior, physical control of another person and/or restraint situations
Ability to read and comprehend the English language; effectively and fluently communicates in English, both verbally and in writing
Work in an environment with fluctuating noise and temperature (hot and cold) which may include working outdoors in inclement weather and/or concrete floor/wall work settings
Travel -Willing and able to travel
2-step TB (tuberculosis) screening is required of all new employees upon hire
Annual influenza vaccination
CDHS Selection Process Explanation
Employment history is calculated on a full-time basis (40/hrs. per week). Part-time employment is calculated on a prorated basis to determine qualifications. Be sure your application specifically addresses your qualifications, experience, work products, and accomplishments as they relate to the position and minimum requirements.
Preferred Qualifications & Competencies:
Relevant years of state service experience.
Minimum Qualification Screening Process
A Human Resources Analyst will review the work experience/job duties sections of the online job application to determine whether your experience meets the minimum qualifications for the position. You must complete the official State of Colorado online application. Cover letters and resumes WILL NOT be reviewed during the minimum qualifications screening process. You must specifically document your work experience and qualifications. Do not use "see resume" or "see attached."
You must meet the minimum qualifications to continue in the selection process. Part-time work experience will be prorated.
Comparative Analysis Process - Structured Application Review
After minimum qualification screening, the comparative analysis process will involve a review and rating of all the information you submit.
Your Work Experience/Job Duties
Document your work experience/job duties to the extent to which you possess the skills, education, experience, minimum qualifications, and preferred qualifications.
If listed, answer all supplemental questions as your answers to these questions will be evaluated during this phase. Provide at least 4-8 sentences for each supplemental question.
Supplemental Questions
Answer the supplemental questions completely and thoughtfully. We will rate your answers based on the content of your response and your writing skills (spelling, grammar, and clarity of your writing).
Appeal Rights
You may file an appeal with the State Personnel Board or request a review by the State Personnel Director if your application is eliminated. You will find the appeals process, the official appeal form, and how to deliver it on theState Personnel Board (https://spb.colorado.gov/) website
You or your representative must sign and submit the official appeal form for review
You can find the official appeal formhere (https://spb.colorado.gov/sites/spb/files/documents/Consolidated%20Appeal%20-%20Form%20-%202025.pdf)
You must be deliver the official appeal form to the State Personnel Board:
By email (dpa_state.personnelboard@state.co.us), or
Postmarked in US Mail to (1525 Sherman Street, 4th Floor, Denver CO 80203, or
Hand delivered (1525 Sherman Street, 4th Floor, Denver CO 80203), or
Faxed (303.866.5038) within ten (10) calendar days from your receipt of notice or acknowledgement of the department's action
Contact the State Personnel Board for assistance:
At (303) 866-3300, or
Refer to the Colorado Code of Regulations (CCR) 801-1, State Personnel Board Rules and Personnel Director's Administrative Procedures, Chapter 8, Resolution of Appeals and Disputes, within theRules (https://spb.colorado.gov/board-rules) webpage
Supplemental Information
Supplemental Information
How to apply to the State of Colorado (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bKuwGdPpOW0) (Youtube Video, Runtime 3:59, Closed Captions Available)
The Assessment Process (https://cdhs.colorado.gov/information-for-job-applicants#assessment-process)
For additional recruiting questions, please contact ellie.cassio@state.co.us
About Us & Benefits
If your goal is to build a career that makes a difference, join the dedicated people of the Colorado Department of Human Services (https://www.colorado.gov/cdhs) (CDHS). Our professionals strive to design and deliver high quality human and health services that improve the safety, independence, and well-being of the people of Colorado. Each of us is committed to contributing to a safe and accessible CDHS . In addition to a great location and rewarding and meaningful work, we offer:
Strong, secure, yet flexible retirement benefits including a PERA Defined Benefit Plan or PERA Defined Contribution Plan plus 401(k) and 457 plans
Medical (https://dhr.colorado.gov/state-employees/state-employee-benefits/medical-benefits) and dental (https://dhr.colorado.gov/state-employees/state-employee-benefits/dental-insurance) health plans
Employer supplemented Health Savings Account
Paid life insurance
Short- and long-term disability coverage (https://dhr.colorado.gov/state-employees/state-employee-benefits/disability-insurance)
11 paid holidays per year plus vacation and sick leave
State of Colorado Employee BenefitHub Resource Center (https://stateofcolorado.benefithub.com/app/home)
Employee Wellness program
Excellent work-life programs, such as flexible schedules, training and more
Remote work arrangements for eligible positions
*Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (https://dhr.colorado.gov/dhr-resources/student-loan-forgiveness-programs)
Our Values
We believe in a people-first approach: We prioritize the needs, well-being, and dignity of the individuals, families and communities we serve. We commit to respect, fairness and access in every decision, policy and interaction. We engage client voices and experiences in the development and implementation of the services we provide
Balance creates quality of life: We want our team to be resilient through a supportive workplace that values flexibility, health and wellness, and employee engagement
We hold ourselves accountable: We take responsibility through our actions, programs, and results for the state of health and human services in Colorado
Transparency matters: We are open and honest with employees, our partners, the Coloradans we serve, and the public
We are ethical: We abide by what is best for those we serve by doing what is right, not what is easy
Collaboration helps us rise together: We work together with all partners, employees, and clients to achieve the best outcomes for Coloradans
ADA Accommodations
CDHS is committed to a Colorado for ALL qualified individuals. As part of this commitment, our agency will assist individuals who have a disability with any reasonable accommodation requests related to employment.
This includes completing the application process, interviewing, completing any pre-employment testing, participating in the employee selection process, and/or performing essential job functions where the requested accommodation does not impose an undue hardship. If you have a disability and require reasonable accommodation to ensure you have a positive experience applying or interviewing for this position, please direct your inquiries to cdhs_ada@state.co.us .
EEO Statement
The State of Colorado is an equal opportunity employer
We are committed to increasing a "Colorado for ALL" of our staff and providing culturally responsive programs and services. Therefore, we encourage responses from people of all backgrounds and abilities. The State of Colorado believes that a "Colorado for ALL" drives our success, and we encourage candidates from all identities, backgrounds, and abilities to apply. The State of Colorado is an equal opportunity employer committed to building inclusive, innovative work environments with employees who reflect our communities and enthusiastically serve them. Therefore, in all aspects of the employment process, we provide employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, medical condition related to pregnancy, creed, ancestry, national origin, marital status, genetic information, or military status (with preference given to military veterans), or any other protected status in accordance with applicable law.
Additional Support For Your Application
Toll Free Applicant Technical Support
If you experience technical difficulty with the NEOGOV system (e.g. uploading or attaching documents to your online application) call NEOGOV technical support at 855-524-5627 Mon-Fri between 6 am and 6 pm (Pacific Time). Helpful hints: if you are having difficulty uploading or attaching documents to your application 1) ensure your documents are PDF or Microsoft Word files and 2) close the document before you attempt to upload (attach) it.
The State of Colorado offers permanent employees a variety of benefits including medical, dental, life and disability insurance, as well as a comprehensive leave program. Please click the following link for detailed information: www.colorado.gov/pacific/dhr/benefits
Please note that each agency's contact information is different; therefore, we encourage all applicants to view the full, official job announcement which includes contact information and class title. Select the job you wish to view, then click on the "Print" icon.
01
The bottom of this job announcement provides links to additional information on how to apply, the assessment process, toll free applicant technical support, and about how the State of Colorado is an equal opportunity employer. Please acknowledge below that you have read the information provided in these links.
This information is available to me and I have read this information.
I am unable to access the links with this information on the job posting. (If you select this option, please contact the recruiter, whose information is listed on this announcement, so that they can send this information directly to you.)
02
Your legal name is used in the hiring process for background checks. Did you use your full legal name in your application? If not, please update your information before submitting your application.
Yes
No
03
If you are a current or former State of Colorado employee, please list your employee number (starts with 997...). Your application may be considered incomplete if you do not provide this information. An incomplete application may not move forward in the Selection process. If you are a former or current state employee, please identify what state agency you work(ed) with and how many years of relevant state service you have related to the position you are applying for. (Ensure this is listed on your application under work experience).
04
Former State employees who were disciplinarily terminated or resigned in lieu of termination must disclose the information on the application. In the space below, please provide an explanation as to why the prior termination or resignation should NOT disqualify your application from the current position.
05
What is your experience working with individuals struggling with substance abuse?
06
How do you address resistance or resistance to change in clients with substance abuse issues?
07
What are some major factors that may cause a patient to relapse, and how do you approach preparing clients to cope with or avoid these risk factors?
08
Please list the certification from the State of Colorado you currently possess.
Required Question
Employer
State of Colorado
Address
See the full announcement by clicking
the "Printer" icon located above the job title
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Website
https://careers.colorado.gov/
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