Mental Health Specialist Aid and Assist Team
Job ID: 107966
Location: Oregon City, Oregon
Full/Part Time: Full Time
Regular/Temporary:Regular
CLACKAMAS COUNTY CORE VALUES
Clackamas County employees work to serve the public and enrich our community. In that spirit, we pledge to hold ourselves to these standards at all times in our interactions with customers and one another:
• Service
• Professionalism
• Integrity
• Respect
• Individual accountability
• Trust
By incorporating these values into our daily routines, we can better serve our customers, ourselves and our projects. We're always looking to improve. That's the Clackamas County SPIRIT.
https://www.clackamas.us/countyadmin/spirit
Clackamas County is committed to building a community where people thrive, have a sense of safety, connection, and belonging, so that everyone is honored and celebrated for the richness in diversity they bring.
We encourage applicants of diverse backgrounds and lived experience to apply.
CLOSE DATE
This Job Posting closes at 11:59 p.m. (Pacific Time) on TUESDAY, JULY 15, 2025.
Please Note: The application deadline may be extended to expand the pool of qualified candidates. Any recruitment timeline changes will be communicated to all who have initiated an application process or have submitted an application.
PAY AND BENEFITS
Mental Health Specialist 2 (licensed):
Annual Pay Range: $89,272.08 - $112,933.33
Hourly Pay Range: $42.919271 - $54.294868
Mental Health Specialist 1 (unlicensed):
Annual Pay Range: $73,699.88 - $93,581.75
Hourly Pay Range: $35.432637 - $44.991225
Salary offers will be made within the posted pay range and will be based on a candidate's experience (paid or unpaid) that is directly relevant to the position.
*Pay rate ranges listed above are Post-COLA increase ranges and are effective July 1, 2025.
Clackamas County proudly offers an attractive compensation and benefits package, including competitive wages, cost-of-living adjustments, merit increases (for eligible employees), and a robust sick and vacation plan for regular status employees.
We encourage and support employee health and wellness by offering, health and wellness classes and events, and alternative care benefits, so you can customize your wellness needs to fit your lifestyle.
Employee benefits become effective the first of the month following an employee's date of hire.
Attractive benefits package and incentives for employees in regular status positions are detailed below.
Generous paid time off package, including:
• 12 hours of vacation accrued per month
• Eligible newly hired employees will have the one-time option to frontload their first year of vacation accruals in compliance with https://dochub.clackamas.us/documents/drupal/a51ff5d3-d243-49ba-aa11-15324f4c0bf8! This means you have access to vacation time at time of hire.
• 8 hours of sick accrued per month
• 10 paid holidays and 1 personal day per year
Other Benefits:
• Membership in the Public Employees Retirement System (PERS)/Oregon Public Service Retirement Plan (OPSRP):
• A Choice of Medical Plans that include chiropractic coverage, alternative care, vision, and prescription drug coverage
• A Choice of Dental Plans
• Robust EAP and wellness programs, including gym discounts and wellness education classes
• Longevity pay
• Other retirement Savings Options that allow for additional retirement funds savings, including an option to contribute a portion of employee earnings on a pre or post-tax basis to a 457b Deferred Compensation Plan
• A variety of additional optional benefits (see links below for additional information)
The Behavioral Health Division provides licensure supervision to all regular status employees who have completed a Graduate degree in a behavioral science-related field (social work, counseling, clinical psychology, etc.), and is actively pursuing licensure in that field.
There may be options for loan forgiveness while working with a government/public agency with the Public Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program.
This is a full time County position represented by the Employees' Association.
https://dochub.clackamas.us/documents/drupal/1e311321-f9ff-4daa-8753-bbdfb4e8d1b4
http://www.clackamas.us/des/benefits.html
JOB DETAILS AND QUALIFICATIONS
Are you passionate about making a difference in the criminal justice and mental health systems?
Clackamas County's Behavioral Health Division is seeking a Mental Health Specialist to join our Aid and Assist Team.
This position plays a critical role in supporting individuals accused of a crime who may not be able to participate in their trial due to symptoms of mental health conditions. The specialist will work collaboratively with the individual, families and other natural support, courts, attorneys, jail, treatment providers, and community partners to provide care coordination, systems navigation, and community-based restoration service evaluations and plans. This is a unique opportunity to apply your clinical skills in a dynamic, community-centered role that intersects law, health, and social justice.
The ideal candidate will bring a strong background in behavioral health, experience working with individuals experiencing severe mental illness, and knowledge of the Oregon Aid and Assist process. They will be skilled in case coordination, clinical documentation, and cross-system collaboration. Strong interpersonal communication and the ability to navigate complex systems of care are essential in this position. A commitment to equity, trauma-informed care, and restorative justice will help the successful candidate thrive in this role.
Clackamas County is committed to building a workforce that reflects the community we serve. In that spirit, we encourage applicants of diverse backgrounds and experience, including those in recovery, or who identify as having lived experience.
Required Minimum Qualifications/ Transferrable Skills:*
• Registered as a Qualified Mental Health Professional (QMHP) as established by the State of Oregon
• A ”Qualified Mental Health Professional" (QMHP) means a Licensed Medical Provider or any other person meeting one or more of the following minimum qualifications as authorized by the Local Mental Health Authority or designee:
Graduate degree in Mental Health Counseling, Social Work, Psychology or other behavioral science fields
• If Licensed, must be credentialed as aClinical Social Worker (LCSW), Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) or Licensed Psychologist (PsyD/PHD) AND a minimum of two (2) years of related experience that would provide the required knowledge and skills to perform the responsibilities of this position.
• If Unlicensed*, must have a minimum of one (1) year of relevant experience that would provide the required knowledge and skills to perform the duties of the role.
• *Licensure is not required to be obtained within three (3) years of hire. However, if licensure is obtained while employed, a promotion to the Mental Health Specialist 2 (Licensed) classification may be considered.
• A minimum of one (1) year experience working with adults who experience severe and persistent mental health conditions
• Must possess or obtain a CPR/First Aid certificate within six (6) months of hire.
Preferred Special Qualifications/ Transferrable Skills:*
• Current licensure in a behavioral health related field (LCSW, LPC, LMFT)
• More than one (1) years experience working with adults who experience severe and persistent mental health conditions
• Experience providing mental health services to individuals in or connected to criminal justice or corrections systems
• Fluent in Spanish/English, both oral and written
• Experience working in Oregon's Aid and Assist system
• Experience working collaboratively with law enforcement, community partners, collateral service providers, and co-workers
• Direct experience providing assessment, triage, and crisis intervention with individuals who are in mental health crisis
• Direct experience assessing risk for suicide and/or danger to self or others
Pre-Employment Requirements:
• Must pass a post-offer, pre-employment drug test.
• A ”Qualified Mental Health Professional" (QMHP) means a Licensed Medical Provider or any other person meeting one or more of the following minimum qualifications as authorized by the Local Mental Health Authority or designee:
Graduate degree in Mental Health Counseling, Social Work, Psychology or other behavioral science fields
• If Licensed, must be credentialed as aClinical Social Worker (LCSW), Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) or Licensed Psychologist (PsyD/PHD) AND a minimum of two (2) years of related experience that would provide the required knowledge and skills to perform the responsibilities of this position.
• If Unlicensed*, must have a minimum of one (1) year of relevant experience that would provide the required knowledge and skills to perform the duties of the role.
• *Licensure is not required to be obtained within three (3) years of hire. However, if licensure is obtained while employed, a promotion to the Mental Health Specialist 2 (Licensed) classification may be considered.
• A minimum of one (1) year experience working with adults who experience severe and persistent mental health conditions
• Must possess or obtain a CPR/First Aid certificate within six (6) months of hire.
Pre-Employment Requirements:
• Must pass a post-offer, pre-employment drug test.
• Must possess or obtain a CPR/First Aid certificate within six (6) months of hire.
Pre-Employment Requirements:
• Must pass a post-offer, pre-employment drug test.
• A ”Qualified Mental Health Professional" (QMHP) means a Licensed Medical Provider or any other person meeting one or more of the following minimum qualifications as authorized by the Local Mental Health Authority or designee:
Graduate degree in Mental Health Counseling, Social Work, Psychology or other behavioral science fields
• If Licensed, must be credentialed as aClinical Social Worker (LCSW), Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) or Licensed Psychologist (PsyD/PHD) AND a minimum of two (2) years of related experience that would provide the required knowledge and skills to perform the responsibilities of this position.
• If Unlicensed*, must have a minimum of one (1) year of relevant experience that would provide the required knowledge and skills to perform the duties of the role.
• *Licensure is not required to be obtained within three (3) years of hire. However, if licensure is obtained while employed, a promotion to the Mental Health Specialist 2 (Licensed) classification may be considered.
• A minimum of one (1) year experience working with adults who experience severe and persistent mental health conditions
• Must possess or obtain a CPR/First Aid certificate within six (6) months of hire.
Preferred Special Qualifications/ Transferrable Skills:*
• Current licensure in a behavioral health related field (LCSW, LPC, LMFT)
• More than one (1) years experience working with adults who experience severe and persistent mental health conditions
• Experience providing mental health services to individuals in or connected to criminal justice or corrections systems
• Fluent in Spanish/English, both oral and written
• Experience working in Oregon's Aid and Assist system
• Experience working collaboratively with law enforcement, community partners, collateral service providers, and co-workers
• Direct experience providing assessment, triage, and crisis intervention with individuals who are in mental health crisis
• Direct experience assessing risk for suicide and/or danger to self or others
Pre-Employment Requirements:
• Must pass a post-offer, pre-employment drug test. https://dochub.clackamas.us/documents/drupal/69fd8013-4594-4afd-bee9-f1e0aeab42ea.
• Must pass a criminal history check which may include national or state fingerprint records check
• Must pass a comprehensive Criminal Justice Background prior to employment. The background process involves a complete Statement of Personal History (SPH)
• Driving is necessary for County business. For position(s) with occasional/incidental driving, incumbents must possess a valid driver's license. Accommodation requests for an acceptable alternative method of transportation will be reviewed on an individual basis in compliance with State and Federal legislation. For position(s) with regular driving, incumbent(s) must also possess and maintain an acceptable driving record throughout the course of employment. http://dochub.clackamas.us/documents/drupal/828106a0-265a-47cc-a3a6-0a2c8b028673
*For Veterans qualified for Veteran's Preference: If you believe you have skills that would transfer well to this position and/or special qualifications that relate to this position, please list those skills and/or qualifications in the open-ended question at the end of the application and explain how those skills and/or qualifications relate to this position.
TYPICAL TASKS
• Assess individuals referred through the court system to determine their mental health needs, community restoration eligibility, and appropriate treatment resources.
• Develop and implement individualized community restoration plans that align with Oregon Administrative Rules and agency procedures, document progress and treatment outcomes in electronic health records.
• Serve as a core member of the Aid and Assist team, collaborating with the Oregon State Hospital, legal teams, community corrections, and behavioral health providers to support client progress and coordinate services.
• Provide consultation, training, and education to agency staff, external partners, and community groups on mental health and substance use topics; represent the program on committees or special projects as needed.
• Deliver a range of community-based services, including assessment, care coordination, mental health stabilization, client engagement, and legal skills training to help individuals restore their capacity to participate in legal proceedings.
WORK SCHEDULE
This position works 40 hours during a standard workweek of Monday through Friday.
Specific hours of work will be discussed with the candidate selected for this position at the time an offer of employment is extended.
This position is designated as on-site/in-person. It is expected that the selected candidate will perform duties at the specified on-site work location.
EXPLORE CLACKAMAS COUNTY
Clackamas County is in a prime location in the Portland, Oregon metropolitan area and is recognized nationally as one of the most livable areas in the United States. Located on the southern edge of the City of Portland and extending to the top of Mt. Hood, Clackamas County is part of a thriving region in the Northwest. It has a population of about 420,000 residents.
http://www.clackamas.us/
http://www.clackamas.us/onboarding/
https://www.mthoodterritory.com/
ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT
The Clackamas County Behavioral Health Division strives to provide excellent mental health, substance use, care coordination, forensic, and peer services to those individuals who receive the Oregon Health Plan, Medicare or are uninsured and living in Clackamas County. Services are either provided by our own staff or through referral to partner providers located throughout the county.
http://www.clackamas.us/behavioralhealth/
Behavioral Health is a Division of the http://www.clackamas.us/h3s/
Health, Housing, and Human Services (H3S) consists of six divisions, dedicated to ensuring health families and strong communities in Clackamas County.
Mission Statement: We lead and learn with equity in serving individuals, families, and communities by providing access to high quality healthcare, housing, and services that strengthen social and economic resilience.
Vision Statement: Individuals, families, and communities are resilient and thriving.
H3S is committed to improving programs and ensuring better outcomes for the people served, and focuses on the following goals:
• EMPOWERED AND THRIVING STAFF - H3S staff are empowered, engaged and have a sense of belonging while being valued and supported to thrive.
• EQUITY DRIVEN SERVICES - H3S promotes and provides accessible, equitable and culturally responsive services.
• ORGANIZATIONAL EXCELLENCE & CONTINUOUS QUALITY IMPROVEMENT - H3S operates consistently, efficiently and effectively as a cohesive department, using our individual and collective skills and expertise.
APPLICATION PROCESS
Clackamas County only accepts online applications.
Help With Your Application:
https://dochub.clackamas.us/documents/drupal/6b3147a3-bf84-4f52-8238-64a37e936b4f
https://www.clackamas.us/jobs#helpwiththeapplication
If you have any questions or issues you may contact the Department of Human Resources at 503-655-8459 or mailto:jobs@co.clackamas.or.us?subject=Application%20Materials%20Question. Our office hours are Monday - Thursday 7:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Pacific Time (closed on Fridays).
HOW TO CLAIM VETERAN'S PREFERENCE
https://www.clackamas.us/des/jobs.html
https://dochub.clackamas.us/documents/drupal/a67ee11c-861c-4126-aa5a-4dec6174f6eb
VISA SPONSORSHIP
Clackamas County does not offer visa sponsorships. Once a job applicant has accepted a position, they will be required to complete an I-9 and confirm authorization to work in the United States prior to their first day.
EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
Clackamas County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We value diversity, equity, and inclusion as essential elements that create and foster a welcoming workplace. All qualified persons will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, political affiliation, disability or any other factor unrelated to the essential functions of the job.
If you wish to identify yourself as a qualified person with a disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act and would like to request an accommodation, please address the request to the Department of Human Resources prior to the recruitment close date. You may request an accommodation during the online application process.
RECRUITING QUESTIONS?
Jimmy Henry, Recruiter
mailto:JHenry@clackamas.us
To apply, visit https://apptrkr.com/6354071
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