title
HEALTH SERVICES AGENCY - Executive Director Michelle Schmidt
end
Requested Action(s)
recommendation
a) OTHER THAN “A” STEP - Request approval and authorization to appoint the candidate as Drug & Alcohol Counselor II at Salary Ranger 27, Step C, upon successful completion of all pre-employment requirements
body
Financial Impact:
Salary at Range 27, Step C, is $27.54. Funds for the higher salary are budgeted in the current budget year, there is no impact to the General Fund.
Background Information:
The candidate has twenty-two (22) years of experience communicating with contracting agencies, program managers, and treatment staff to facilitate appropriate placement and services for clients. The candidate understands the importance of establishing a positive initial connection with clients, which is an essential skill for a Drug and Alcohol Counselor. Their experience demonstrates established communication, rapport-building, and client engagement skills that support placement above the entry-level step.
In past roles, the candidate participated in weekly treatment team meetings to discuss residents' progress and treatment needs and collaborates with internal staff and external agencies regarding client services. This experience demonstrates their familiarity with treatment coordination, interdisciplinary communication, client advocacy, and continuity of care. These transferable skills will allow them to contribute effectively in the counselor role with less reliance on entry-level training and supervision.
Candidate has extensive knowledge of the department's program operations, treatment processes, client needs, and coordination with external service providers. Their familiarity with program expectations, staff roles, contracting agencies, and treatment team processes will allow them to transition into the Drug and Alcohol Counselor position with a reduced learning curve. This institutional knowledge, combined with their demonstrated experience working directly with clients and treatment teams, provides immediate value to the program.
The Personnel Office has reviewed the candidate’s qualifications and is in agreement with placement at Step C.