Bernalillo County is 1,160 square miles and is New Mexico’s most populous county with more than 676,000 residents. Bernalillo County government provides a wide range of public services to residents who live in Albuquerque, Los Ranchos and Tijeras with approximately 106,000 residents living in unincorporated areas of the county. Bernalillo County employs approximately 2,500 people and has an annual operating budget, capital investments and other funds of more than $1 billion. Elected officials include five county commissioners, assessor, clerk, probate judge, sheriff and treasurer.

Bernalillo County

Department of Human Resources

Job Descriptions

What does the red Zia symbol mean? The Zia sun symbol represent the four cardinal directions, the four seasons of the year, the four period of each day (morning, noon, evening, and night), and the four seasons of life (childhood, youth, middle age, and old age). The centre of the sun symbol stands for life itself. The yellow field with red symbol pays recognition to the Aragon Realm of the conquistadors and their homeland in Spain.
JCP114: Substance Abuse Counselor

Substance Abuse Counselor

Job Code
Grade
Bargaining Unit
JCP114
5
None
       
       
Hourly
As Hourly
As Annual
22.81 - 28.64 - 36.01 USD Hourly
$22.81 - $28.64 - $36.01
$47,444.80 - $59,571.20 - $74,900.80

POSITION SUMMARY

The Substance Abuse Counselor provides addiction counseling services within the scope of licensure to clients in various department-operated programs. This position is responsible for delivering substance abuse treatment services aligned with the department’s treatment modality.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Gather and evaluate client treatment information through assessments and case histories to determine appropriate treatment intensity.
  • Develop individualized treatment and rehabilitation plans for substance abuse clients.
  • Provide clinical guidance and supervision to addiction professionals with lower-level licensure.
  • Deliver therapeutic interventions to clients in crisis situations.
  • Refer clients to psychological evaluations, treatment programs, or support groups as needed.
  • Conduct individual and group counseling sessions within the scope of licensure and department protocols.
  • Facilitate educational group sessions based on the department’s treatment model and guidelines.
  • Maintain accurate case files, document care-related notes, and track referrals and related documentation.
  • Prepare client progress reports and related documentation for presentations or evaluations.
  • Uphold professional standards in ethics, competence, confidentiality, client care, and licensing board regulations.
  • Attend staff meetings and participate in team conferences as assigned.

*The above information is intended to outline the general nature and scope of the duties required for this position. It is not an exhaustive list and may vary depending on specific job assignments and responsibilities. 


MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

  • Bachelor’ in Counseling, Social Work, or a related field.
  • One (1) year of work experience in counseling.


SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION


ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Licensure as an Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor (LADAC), Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Professional Mental Health Clinical Counselor (LPCC), Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW), or Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW) is required.

SCREENING AND COMPLIANCE


The offer of this Bernalillo County position requires compliance with the following:

  • Successful completion of a post-offer employment medical examination and background investigation.
  • Compliance with all County safety guidelines.
  • This is a safety-sensitive position. Employment is subject to pre-employment and random drug testing under applicable federal and state laws.
  • A valid New Mexico driver’s license is required by the date of employment and must be maintained throughout employment.
  • Completion of FEMA training(s) as assigned to the position is required.
  • In accordance with the Caregivers Criminal History Screening Act (Sections 29-17-1 through 29-17-5 NMSA 1978), new hires working in Behavioral Health Services must undergo a caregiver criminal history screening. A disqualifying condition may result in denial or termination of employment.


WORKING CONDITIONS

  • Most essential duties are performed indoors in a temperature-controlled environment.
  • Work surfaces are typically even and may be carpeted or tiled.
  • Indoor surfaces are usually dry and may include stairs.
  • Work hazards may include exposure to noise and potentially dangerous situations in a correctional facility environment.
  • Works independently or with a group or team, as needed.
  • Flexible work hours may be required.


EQUIPMENT, TOOLS, AND MATERIALS

  • Regularly uses computers and communication equipment.
  • Equipment typically used in the performance of office duties includes telephone, computer, printer, and copy machine.
  • Handles files, reports, forms, and other administrative paperwork and supplies.
  • May occasionally use first aid and oxygen equipment.

Revision: 8/21/2025 1:40:29 PM