Job Description

Janus is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based services to individuals experiencing substance use disorders, behavioral health challenges, homelessness, and related health concerns. The Registered Nurse (RN) plays a vital role in delivering high-quality nursing care, supporting recovery-oriented treatment, promoting wellness, and ensuring the safety and dignity of clients across Janus programs.

The RN provides direct patient care, conducts health assessments, administers medications, supports withdrawal management and recovery services, collaborates with interdisciplinary teams, and promotes a trauma-informed, client-centered approach to care.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Clinical Nursing Care

• Conduct comprehensive nursing assessments and ongoing evaluations of client health status
• Monitor clients for withdrawal symptoms, medication effectiveness, and changes in physical or behavioral health
• Administer medications and treatments in accordance with physician orders, nursing standards, and organizational policies
• Provide nursing care for clients experiencing substance use disorders, co-occurring mental health conditions, and chronic medical conditions
• Maintain accurate, timely, and complete clinical documentation in electronic health records
• Respond appropriately to medical emergencies and provide first aid, crisis intervention, and emergency care as needed

Medication Management

• Administer and document prescribed medications
• Monitor medication compliance, side effects, and adverse reactions
• Coordinate medication refills and collaborate with prescribing providers
• Educate clients regarding medications, treatment plans, and self-management strategies

Care Coordination

• Collaborate with physicians, nurse practitioners, counselors, case managers, peer support specialists, and other treatment team members
• Participate in interdisciplinary treatment planning and case conferences
• Coordinate referrals and continuity of care with community healthcare providers and support services
• Advocate for client healthcare needs and access to services

Compliance and Quality Assurance

• Adhere to all federal, state, county, licensing, accreditation, and organizational requirements
• Maintain confidentiality in accordance with HIPAA and 42 CFR Part 2 regulations
• Participate in quality improvement activities and staff training
• Support infection control and workplace safety procedures

Requirements

Required

• Active California Registered Nurse (RN) license in good standing
• Graduate of an accredited nursing program
• Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification
• Knowledge of medical, behavioral health, and substance use disorder treatment practices
• Strong assessment, communication, and documentation skills
• Ability to work effectively with diverse populations experiencing complex social, behavioral, and medical needs
• Commitment to trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and recovery-oriented care

Preferred

• Experience in substance use disorder treatment, withdrawal management, behavioral health, community health, homeless services, or public health settings
• Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certification
• Experience with electronic health records (EHR)
• Knowledge of Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), including medications such as buprenorphine and naltrexone
• Bilingual English/Spanish

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong clinical judgment and critical thinking skills
• Ability to recognize and respond to medical and behavioral health emergencies
• Understanding of harm reduction and recovery-oriented models of care
• Ability to establish rapport and maintain professional boundaries
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Strong organizational and time management abilities
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, and move throughout the workday
• Ability to lift and carry up to 25 pounds
• Ability to respond quickly in emergency situations
• Ability to operate standard office and medical equipment

At Janus of Santa Cruz, the well-being of our employees is paramount to our planning and policies.

• We provide unlimited counseling (telehealth and in-person) at zero cost to our employees.
• We also provide competitive retirement plans for full-time, part-time, and on call employes with generous matching after six months of consecutive employment.
• Amazing Benefits: Enjoy comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, 12 paid holidays, retirement benefits, no-cost mental health counseling services, and 12 paid sick days per year.
• Impactful Work: Be at the forefront of transforming lives and communities.
• Collaborative Environment: Work with a dedicated team of professionals committed to holistic care and rehabilitation.
• Professional Growth: Seize opportunities to attend, participate, and speak at local and state-level meetings, events, conferences, and training.
• Supportive Culture: Thrive in a workplace that values your contributions and supports your professional development.

Janus of Santa Cruz maintains and promotes a working environment free from discrimination and harassment; and provides all current and prospective employees with equal opportunity in employment regardless of race, creed, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, disability, medical condition, sex, gender identity, physical characteristics, marital status, age, sexual orientation, organizational affiliation, veteran status, or past justice related situations.