Position Summary
The HIV Testing and Outreach Counselor is responsible for providing confidential HIV and sexually transmitted disease (STD) testing, education, prevention services, outreach, and linkage to care. This position supports the organization's mission by conducting community outreach, educating clients on HIV prevention and Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), performing HIV testing services, maintaining accurate documentation, and ensuring individuals who test positive are promptly linked to medical care and supportive services.
The specialist must maintain the highest standards of professionalism, confidentiality, and client-centered care while adhering to all organizational, state, and federal regulations governing HIV testing and prevention services.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
HIV Testing and Counseling
- Provide confidential HIV testing services in accordance with state and organizational guidelines.
- Conduct comprehensive pre-test and post-test counseling for HIV and STD screening.
- Educate clients on HIV transmission, prevention strategies, risk reduction, and available treatment options.
- Provide education on sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), PrEP, and other HIV prevention strategies.
- Collect oral specimens and other approved testing samples following established protocols.
- Maintain strict confidentiality of all client information.
Client Services and Linkage to Care
- Facilitate client flow to ensure efficient service delivery.
- Refer, schedule, and coordinate appointments for HIV, STD, and PrEP services.
- Link individuals who test HIV-positive to appropriate medical care and community resources immediately.
- Follow up with HIV-positive clients to support continued engagement in medical care and medication services.
- Assist clients in accessing supportive services, including case management and other healthcare resources.
Outreach and Community Education
- Conduct community outreach activities to promote HIV prevention and testing services.
- Participate in daytime, evening, and night outreach events as assigned.
- Build relationships with community organizations, healthcare providers, and outreach partners.
- Conduct educational presentations and health promotion activities within the community.
- Distribute educational materials and prevention supplies during outreach activities.
Documentation and Data Management
- Accurately complete all required client assessments, consent forms, laboratory requisitions, and related documentation.
- Enter client information accurately into the Counseling, Testing, and Linkage System (CTLS) and other required databases.
- Assist with data entry, quality assurance, and preparation of monthly reports.
- Maintain accurate client records in compliance with organizational policies and HIPAA regulations.
Program Compliance and Safety
- Follow Universal Precautions and infection control procedures at all times.
- Maintain compliance with all HIV Testing and Linkage Program policies, procedures, and quality standards.
- Participate in required staff meetings, trainings, and professional development activities.
- Ensure testing equipment and supplies are maintained appropriately.
- Support continuous quality improvement initiatives within the program.
Other Duties
- Perform additional duties as assigned to support organizational operations and program objectives.
Minimum Qualifications
- High School Diploma or General Education Diploma (GED).
- Current certification as an HIV Counselor/Tester.
- Valid driver's license and reliable transportation preferred.
- Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and community outreach events.
Preferred Qualifications
- Bilingual(Fluent in Spanish preferred)
- Experience providing HIV testing, counseling, outreach, or health education.
- Knowledge of HIV prevention strategies, including PrEP and PEP.
- Experience working with diverse and underserved populations.
- Bilingual abilities are a plus.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Knowledge of HIV, STDs, PrEP, and HIV prevention strategies.
- Strong communication, interpersonal, and counseling skills.
- Ability to establish rapport with diverse populations while maintaining confidentiality.
- Excellent organizational and time management skills.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office and electronic data management systems, including CTLS.
- Ability to accurately complete documentation and maintain detailed records.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.
- Commitment to cultural sensitivity, professionalism, and ethical standards.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to travel throughout the service area for outreach activities.
- Ability to stand, walk, and transport outreach supplies during community events.
- Ability to lift and carry outreach materials
- Ability to work both indoors and outdoors in varying environmental conditions.
Work Environment
This position requires work in office settings, community-based locations, mobile outreach events, healthcare facilities, and other community venues. The position requires flexibility to work evenings, weekends and nights to support community outreach and HIV prevention activities.
Pay: $40,000.00 - $42,000.00 per year
Work Location: In person
