HIV Testing & Prevention Specialist

Metropolitan Charities, Inc.

 

Metropolitan Charities, Inc. a 501(c)3 organization,  is committed to providing premier HIV services, social networking, and other health and wellness programs that enhance the quality of life.  We strive to promote a healthy environment for all and to foster diversity within the community as a whole, regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, or economic status.

 

We are currently seeking a HIV Testing & Prevention Specialist.  This individual will conduct Rapid HIV testing (OraQuick) and OraSure testing on-site at Metropolitan Charities, Inc. locations, at community based settings, shelters, and public housing developments, and on the Metropolitan Charities, Inc. testing van, and at various locations throughout Hillsborough and Pinellas Counties. Provide HIV education and risk reduction counseling. Deliver rapid test results and conduct confirmatory test as needed. Provide referral and connection to medical care, mental health services, and other social services as required.  ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

The following duties are mandatory requirements of the job:                                  

§ Perform outreach and HIV testing to residents of Hillsborough and Pinellas Counties, with an emphasis on Blacks/African Americans.         

§  Provide individuals with educational material, condoms, and other safer sex items.   

§  Link HIV negative individuals with referrals to obtain other STD screenings, counseling, and social services as needed.

§ Coordinate initial eligibility and/or medical appointment for all HIV-positive individuals. 

§ Refer to mental health counselor/clinical supervisor for short-term crisis counseling on issues related to living with HIV, disclosure, care, etc.          

§  Provide referral to local health department as needed.

§ Maintain appropriate, accurate and clear documentation of all testing services and service coordination as required by agency, contract and Department Of Health.

§ Required to work some weekends and some evenings.

 

OTHER RESPONSIBILITIES

The following duties are to be performed as assigned by the supervisor: § Participate in outreach strategy planning meetings. 

§ Must be able to effectively network with community leaders, business owners, local organizations, agencies, associations, committees and other groups.

§ Other duties as assigned.

EDUCATION AND CERTIFICATION 

§ Bachelors Degree and one year of HIV testing experience highly preferred.   § Criminal background check performed. 

Must possess or obtain the following certificates within one month of hire: § HIV 100/101 testing training certificate § HIV 500/ 501 testing training certificate § HIV Rapid Testing training (OraQuick)

SPECIAL SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE

§ Must be knowledgeable about HIV risk factors and risk behaviors, substance abuse issues, and sexuality issues.

 

§ Must have experience in providing services to at-risk populations (e.g. individuals with substance abuse issues, homeless, sex workers, men who have sex with men, 

intravenous drug users, ex-offenders, etc...).

 

§ Must be knowledgeable about the minority community in the Tampa Bay area.

 

§ Must have reliable transportation, valid driver’s license, and current vehicle insurance. § Must possess active listening and good interpersonal skills.

 

§ Must possess good computer and typing skills.