Prevention Specialist
Prevention Specialist Job Summary:
Under the supervision of the Health Promotions Manager, the Prevention Specialist will assist with HIV/STI prevention efforts, harm reduction outreach, and community education throughout Milwaukee. This position will support HIV/STI and Hepatitis C testing events, distribute harm reduction supplies (including Narcan and fentanyl test strips), and provide information and referrals to individuals at risk. The LTE Prevention Specialist plays a key role in creating a safe, respectful, and culturally informed approach to public health work in underserved communities.
Prevention Specialist Job Responsibilities:
- Support the setup and delivery of HIV and Hepatitis C testing and outreach.
- Distribute prevention materials such as Narcan, Fentanyl & Xylazine test strips, condoms, and new syringes along with collecting used syringes within the community.
- Provide educational materials and engage participants in conversations about HIV/STI prevention, overdose awareness, and safer substance use practices.
- Support accurate tracking of distributed supplies and completion of simple data collection forms as required by the program.
- Participate in tabling efforts at community events, health fairs, cultural festivals, and outreach locations such as food pantries and shelters.
- Maintain proper inventory of outreach supplies and assist with organizing materials for upcoming events.
- Conduct follow-up outreach activities such as restocking community partners and distributing flyers about testing and harm reduction services.
- Uphold all safety, confidentiality, and harm reduction protocols, including proper handling and disposal of used supplies.
- Represent UMOS Health Promotions with professionalism and cultural sensitivity when working in the community.
- Attend required trainings and staff meetings related to HIV prevention, harm reduction, trauma-informed care, and cultural competency.
- Provide referrals to additional services within UMOS or partner agencies for individuals in need of housing, mental health, substance use treatment, or other support.
- Collaborate with the Health Promotions team and contribute ideas for outreach strategies, improving engagement, and reaching underserved populations.
- Support other Health Promotions programs and outreach initiatives as needed.
- Perform other duties as assigned to meet agency goals and objectives.
Prevention Specialist Job Qualifications:
- High school diploma or equivalent required; some college coursework in public health, social work, or a related field preferred.
- Experience or interest in harm reduction, community outreach, or public health
- Excellent organizational and people skills, detail oriented.
- Strong verbal and written communication.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams) and other software programs.
- Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred but not required.
- Comfortable engaging with diverse populations in community-based settings
- Must have valid state Driver’s license, a reliable vehicle and maintain car insurance.