Drug & Alcohol Counselor at ACI Federal Inc – Cherokee, North Carolina

Job Description: Drug and Alcohol Abuse Counselor

Location: Oconaluftee Job Corps Center – Cherokee, NC

Employment Type: Full-Time

About Oconaluftee Job Corps Center

The Oconaluftee Corps Center provides young adults with education, vocational training, and supportive services to prepare them for successful careers. We are committed to fostering a safe, healthy, and empowering environment where students can thrive academically, professionally, and personally.

Position Summary

The Drug and Alcohol Abuse Counselor plays a vital role in supporting the health and well-being of Job Corps students. This position provides counseling, education, and intervention services to help students overcome substance abuse challenges, develop coping strategies, and maintain a drug- and alcohol-free lifestyle.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct individual and group counseling sessions addressing substance abuse prevention, recovery, and life skills

• Assess students’ needs through screenings, intake interviews, and ongoing evaluations

• Develop and implement individualized treatment plans in alignment with Job Corps guidelines

• Provide crisis intervention and referrals to external treatment resources when necessary

• Collaborate with center staff, healthcare providers, and community partners to ensure holistic student support

• Facilitate educational workshops on substance abuse awareness, prevention, and healthy decision-making

• Maintain accurate, confidential case records and progress reports

• Support center initiatives to promote a safe, drug-free environment

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Counseling, Psychology, Social Work, or related field (Master’s preferred)

• Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LADC) or equivalent certification in North Carolina REQUIRED

• Minimum of 2 years of experience in substance abuse counseling, preferably with adolescents or young adults

• Strong knowledge of counseling techniques, recovery models, and community resources

• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and documentation skills

• Ability to work collaboratively in a diverse, student-centered environment

Preferred Skills

• Experience in educational or residential program settings

• Familiarity with Job Corps policies and federal guidelines

• Bilingual abilities are a plus