Prevention Specialist

Report to: Program Manager, Los Angeles County
Salary: Hourly range $25.00 to $27.40
Status: Full time, non-exempt
Introductory Period: 90-day Introductory Period
Benefits: Generous benefits package including medical, dental, vision paid time off (PTO), 403B retirement

benefits
The mission of the Institute for Public Strategies (IPS) is to work alongside communities to build power, challenge
systems of inequity, protect health, and improve quality of life.
IPS is a diverse, inclusive workplace, where employees are valued and respected for their different perspectives, experiences,
backgrounds, and contributions. We are proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.All qualified applicants will
receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual
orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteranstatus. Accommodations will be made for individuals with
disabilities who are otherwise qualified and able to perform the functions of this position.
The Institute for Public Strategies (IPS) is seeking a full-time Prevention Specialistfor a program that focuses on preventing
substance use disorders and related harms using equity-centric, community-level strategies. This position requires a creative
problem solver who can manage details without losing sight of the big picture. The candidate must work well as part of a
diverse team with varying ideas and work styles. This position is based out of Culver City, CA and supports prevention
projects in Santa Monica, Culver City, and Venice, CA.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
1. Assist in leading the implementation of environmental prevention programs/services within IPS’ target communities
2. Conduct outreach and develop relationships with local schools and community organizations in target communities
3. Develop, adapt, and lead educational presentations to diverse audiences, including youth and young adults, across

various community-based or school settings
4. Lead and support research and data collection initiatives, including (but not limited to): environmental scans, community

needs assessments, key stakeholder interviews (KSIs), focus groups, media reviews, and policy reviews
5. Become an expert in coalition development and substance-use/harm reduction-related topics and curriculum
6. Support and lead IPS agency contributions to external substance use disorder (SUD) initiatives, including community

coalition meetings and multi-agency partnership programs
7. Support advocacy efforts with stakeholders and community partners
8. Support the media advocacy specialist in executing social media outreach and developing materials
9. Support the completion of program reports, documentation of activities, and maintaining compliance files
10. Take on administrative and clerical tasks, such as (but not limited to): ordering office supplies, managing inventory, and

expense reporting
11. Work evenings and weekends and travel periodically to support outreach efforts
12. Other duties as assigned
JOB QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE:
1. One to two years of experience in one or more of the following areas: community organizing, alcohol/substance use

prevention work, social determinants of health, public health, and coalition-building
2. Strong writing, public speaking, presentation, group facilitation and training skills
3. Willingness to take direction, function as part of a team, and work collaboratively with others
4. Experience in developing community partner networks
5. Ability to establish culturally sensitive working relationships with diverse populations in underserved communities
6. Flexibility - ability to adapt to change quickly
7. Excellent computer skills and knowledge, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and other data management software
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
1. Bilingual capacity
2. Certification as a Certified Prevention Specialist
3. Experience working with youth and young adults
4. Familiarity with Santa Monica, Culver City, and Venice, CA
5. Familiarity with the social determinants of health
This job description describes the general nature of this position. This is not a complete list of all responsibilities, duties and
skills required. All IPS employees may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time.
Must have a valid California Driver’s License and an insured, reliable vehicle to use during work.
Position will require FBI background check/fingerprinting and drug testing. However, lived experience should not deter
anyone from applying.
To apply, please send a cover letter and resume to preventionspecialist@publicstrategies.org in a single PDF.