Patient Care Specialist III - Ambulatory

Patient Care Specialist III – Ambulatory Services
Full‑Time | Richmond, VA
Shift: 4:00 pm - 12:30 am 

We offer competitive compensation, schedule flexibility, and opportunities for leadership growth within a supportive, mission‑driven environment.

As a Patient Care Specialist III (PCS III – Ambulatory Services) at our Richmond, VA location, you will serve as a frontline leader within our ambulatory and transitional living programs. In addition to providing direct patient care, you will mentor PCS I and PCS II teammates, provide real‑time coaching, and collaborate with leadership to ensure patient care practices align with clinical best practices, regulatory standards, and organizational expectations.

Why Pinnacle

• Leadership‑focused role with defined career progression
• Collaborative, mission‑driven care environment
• Opportunities to directly impact patient outcomes and team performance
• Supportive culture emphasizing professionalism, growth, and recovery‑focused care

Teammate Benefits

• 18 days Paid Time Off (PTO) and 8 paid holidays
• Variable pay structure based on experience and education
• Shift differential for evening coverage
• Defined career pathing through the Patient Care Specialist Tier Program
• Substance Use Disorder Treatment and Recovery Loan Repayment Program (STAR LRP) at eligible facilities
• Access to 600+ free CEU courses
• Discounted tuition opportunities through Capella University
• Schedule flexibility to support work‑life balance
• Merit‑based increases recognizing performance and leadership growth
• Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Minimum of two (2) years of experience in a behavioral healthcare or substance use treatment setting
• Intermediate knowledge of addiction and the recovery process
• Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office (Outlook, Teams, Word)
• Demonstrated ability to mentor, coach, and support teammates
• Valid driver’s license in the state of employment
• CPR and MANDT certification (training provided and maintained as required)
• Ability to travel locally up to 25%, including patient transportation

Preferred Qualifications

• Associate degree in a behavioral science discipline
• State‑recognized Peer Support Certification or addiction training certification
• Advanced knowledge of addiction treatment and recovery principles
• Advanced technology skills, including Microsoft Excel

Responsibilities

• Support patient engagement through role modeling, motivational interviewing, and reinforcement of program expectations
• Promote a trauma‑informed, recovery‑oriented environment through calm leadership and respectful enforcement of program guidelines
• Support AMA prevention and early intervention by monitoring risk indicators and communicating concerns to the treatment team
• Assist with admissions by monitoring patient safety, ensuring orientation, and completing required documentation
• Facilitate patient cellphone access in accordance with the Transitional Living Playbook
• Follow all safety, medical, infection control, and security protocols, including searches, drug screen observations, and heat treatments
• Search patients and belongings for contraband and manage valuables according to policy
• Monitor patient self‑administration of medications and obtain vital signs as required
• Maintain readiness for medical and behavioral emergencies, including overdose response and Narcan administration
• Complete timely and accurate EHR and facility documentation, including shift reports, incident reports, and patient observations
• Facilitate or support patient activities, recovery support groups, and life skills development
• Assist with meal planning, grocery orders, and independent living skill development
• Support patients with basic aftercare planning documentation and coordination with the treatment team
• Provide safe and compliant transportation for patients and maintain accurate mileage records
• Organize and facilitate store runs and community outings in accordance with established guidelines
• Maintain a clean, safe, and structured physical environment through routine inspections
• Ensure duties are performed in alignment with CARF standards to support accreditation readiness
• Provide peer mentorship and real‑time coaching to PCS I and PCS II teammates
• Support onboarding and development of new teammates through training a