Position Summary
The Medication Specialist position is designed to provide an additional layer of oversight to ensure safe and effective medication practices within the GRIT co-occurring enhanced residential programs. The Medication Specialist will provide support, assistance, and training with various medication related tasks. Additionally, they will function as a liaison between the nurses, prescriber, program staff, and residents. The Medication Specialist plays a critical role in supporting the integrated treatment of individuals with co-occurring substance use and mental health disorders in a residential setting. This position ensures the safe, effective, and compassionate administration of medications, while promoting recovery-oriented care and collaboration across disciplines within the program.
Pay Range: $19-$21 an hour
Open Shift: Monday through Friday 9am-5pm (40hrs)
Key Responsibilities
- Complete and document weekly medication audits for all program participants currently enrolled. Identify and communicate any med room errors in need of follow up, correction and reporting.
- Maintain the medication tracking binder, ensuring paperwork for discharged residents has been removed and scanned into the electronic health record.
- Monitor outgoing and incoming paperwork for external appointments.
- Monitor the med room board to ensure refills needed are obtained, pick-ups occur, and new orders are verified.
- Provide oversight and training for staff needing extra support with medication-related tasks and procedures.
- Maintain the cleanliness and order of the medication room on a regular basis. Ensure that all med room supplies remain stocked and are ordered and obtained as needed.
- Maintain familiarity with various procedures including gathering information for the prescriber before weekly appointments, accessing information from the electronic health record and other management systems, printing and changing over monthly MOS forms and completing medication transfer forms for discharges. Provide training and support for other staff when these tasks require coverage.
- Maintain Naloxone (Narcan) supply and tracking systems for program use and individual distribution. Provide opioid overdose and Naloxone administration training for staff and residents quarterly.
- Conduct regular medication disposals according to the timeline established with the Nurse Manager.
About the GRIT Program
The GRIT program at MHA provides residential rehabilitation for individuals with substance use challenges and co-occurring mental health conditions. Residents participate in individualized counseling, recovery-focused programming, and community activities such as education, job training, or employment, all within a structured and supportive environment. With locations in Springfield (men’s programs) and Holyoke (LGBTQIA+ program), GRIT combines the comforts of home with access to vital resources. A skilled, multidisciplinary team works closely with each resident to support recovery, personal growth, and long-term stability, while creating personalized aftercare plans for a successful return to the community.
Equal Opportunity Statement
The Mental Health Association is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
Requirements
- Must complete and pass the BSAS Medication Training. Attend and complete all required BSAS Medication Specialist training courses. Maintain a good record of demonstration of these skills.
- Ability to work first shift M-F hours, with some flexibility based on the needs of the program.
- Demonstrated ability to work independently, manage time, prioritize tasks, take initiative, follow through, and work cooperatively as a member of a team.
- Good oral, written, computer, and organizational skills.
- Demonstrated ability to adapt to the changing needs of the program participants.
- Strong interpersonal skills, patience, caring, and compassion.
- Must be at least eighteen years old.
- High school diploma or equivalent (GED).
- At least six months of applicable experience in the program environment is preferred. Experience with individuals with substance use and/or mental health challenges preferred.
Benefits
- Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
- Retirement Plan (403B, IRA)
- Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
- Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity)
- Long Term Disability
- $19-21 an hour