SMI Team Specialist Trainer at Chicanos Por La Causa – Mesa, Arizona

GROWTH OPPORTUNITY - Continue developing your SMI, case management and leadership skills as our new SMI Team Specialist!

CPLC Centro Esperanza in Mesa, AZ, offers specialized services for Serious Mental Illness (SMI) populations focusing on case management and psychiatric services.

OBJECTIVE AND POSITION SUMMARY
Under the direction of the Team Lead and Program Manager, the SMI Team Specialist plays a vital role in supporting individuals with complex behavioral health needs, including those diagnosed with Serious Mental Illness (SMI). As a key member of a multidisciplinary team, the Team Specialist delivers direct services, coordinates care, and ensures clients receive comprehensive support across medical, behavioral, and social domains.

This position emphasizes collaboration, advocacy, and empowerment to help clients achieve stability, independence, and an improved quality of life. The Team Specialist also contributes to team development by modeling best practices, training and mentoring new staff, and actively participating in ongoing training initiatives. Success in this role requires strong interpersonal skills, clinical insight, and a commitment to trauma-informed, recovery-oriented care.

PRIMARY DUTIES, include, but are not limited to

• Provide direct support to clients through case management, skill-building, and recovery planning.
• Coordinate care with internal and external providers, including medical, psychiatric, housing, and social service agencies.
• Conduct assessments and develop individualized service plans in collaboration with clients and the care team.
• Transport clients for case management activities.
• Maintain accurate and timely documentation in accordance with agency and regulatory standards.
• Participate in team meetings, clinical supervision, and case consultations.
• Support onboarding and training of new team members; serve as a mentor and resource.
• Promote a culture of recovery, resilience, and client empowerment.
• Respond to crises and provide support in accordance with agency protocols.
• Engage in community outreach and advocacy as needed.
• Meet minimum billing expectations as required by the position.
  

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS AND COMPETENCIES

Education/Background:

• Required for all candidates: Bachelor’s degree and case management experience working with individuals diagnosed with SMI.
• Preferred for top candidates: Bachelor’s degree will be in social work, Psychology, Counseling, Behavioral Health, or a related field.
• Valid driver’s license in good standing and proof of insurance.
  • ​​​​​​​Must have reliable transportation and ability to transport member in personal and/or agency vehicle.
• CPR/First Aid certification (or ability to obtain).

Experience

• Minimum 1 years of experience working with individuals diagnosed with SMI.
• Experience in behavioral health, case management, or social services.
• Experience in a multidisciplinary team setting preferred.
• Prior experience training or mentoring staff required.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Knowledge of trauma-informed care, motivational interviewing, and recovery principles.
• Ability to engage clients with empathy and cultural sensitivity.
• Proficiency in electronic health records (EHR) and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.

Other Requirements

• Sitting for long periods, driving for long periods, moving 0-30 lbs., reaching both low and high places, typing, working on a computer 4-6 hours a day.
• Must maintain all state mandated trainings.
• Ability to effectively interact with diverse employee populations, including functional client groups.