This is the journey level of the series, but serves as the entry-level professional in an Employee Assistance Program.  Positions at this level work under the general guidance of a higher level Employee Assistance Professional or manager. Supervisor typically reviews outcomes and provides advice, coaching, or direction as needed. Assignments normally involve making decisions and judgments within established precedents.

Under guidance of higher level EA Professional screens the needs of employees and family members using standard interview techniques to determine the nature of the telephone or individual contact including criticality;  

Conducts basic level screening using standard interview and measurement techniques in order to assist in identifying personal problems or other issues that may affect job performance.

Consults with and provides assistance to supervisors and managers regarding employee work performance/behavioral issues and underlying personal problems which may be contributing factors and for more complex issues, refers to higher level EA Professional; 

Performs other duties as assigned; 

May supervise lower level staff.

There may be instances where individual positions must have additional licenses or certification. It is the employer’s responsibility to ensure the appropriate licenses/certifications are obtained for each position.   

Some positions may require Licensure in areas such as Licensed Social Worker (LSW), Licensed  Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), or Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner (ARNP) or certifications in areas such as Substance Abuse Professionals or Critical Incident Management.  

Candidates who are Certified Employee Assistance Professionals (CEAP) or CEAP eligible or those who are certified to be Substance Abuse Professionals (SAP) under the federal Department of Transportation random drug/alcohol program are preferred.

Persons legally authorized to work in the U.S. under federal law, including Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals recipients, are eligible for employment unless prohibited by other state or federal law.

Positions typically require a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in social services, psychology, counseling, social work, or related field, and three years of professional experience and training in mental health including broad brush (multiple) clinical skills and substance abuse counseling and treatment. Two years of experience and training in an Employee Assistance program and one-year lead or supervisory experience is desired.

As part of civil service reform, new class consolidation replaces and abolishes 19112 Employee Assistance Specialist 1; adopted July 14, 2005, effective June 1, 2005.

Revised Legal Requirements; effective June 6, 2024, due to adopted legislative action.