What are the responsibilities and job description for the Harm Reduction Program Manager position at AIDS Foundation of Chicago?
Program Manager – Harm Reduction (Hybrid)
Location: Chicago, IL (Hybrid, Monday–Friday)
Reports to: Director of Behavioral Health
Employment Type: Full-time, Exempt
Salary Range: $55,000–$65,000 annually (commensurate with experience)
About Us
AIDS Foundation Chicago (AFC) is a nonprofit organization working to improve the lives of people living with or vulnerable to HIV, chronic health conditions, and housing instability. We are a trusted leader in public health, housing, and health access across Illinois.
The Center for Housing and Health (CHH) is a supporting organization of AFC that leads innovative, housing-first initiatives designed to end homelessness and improve health outcomes. Through programs like the Flexible Housing Pool and Connection to Harm Reduction, CHH coordinates with hospitals, housing agencies, and service providers to connect people with the resources they need to thrive.
Together, AFC and CHH advance health and housing justice throughout the region.
About the Role
The Program Manager – Harm Reduction leads the Connection to Harm Reduction initiative, supporting individuals who are navigating substance use while experiencing chronic homelessness. This role bridges housing providers, behavioral health systems, and recovery services to improve access to care and support long-term stability.
This is a hybrid position, working Monday through Friday, with a combination of in-office, remote, and community-based responsibilities.
Key Responsibilities
Program Management
Oversee daily operations of the Connection to Harm Reduction program
Build and maintain partnerships with housing, behavioral health, and medical providers
Coordinate overdose prevention education and naloxone distribution
Monitor program quality and lead improvements based on data and community feedback
Ensure timely documentation and funder reporting
Client Services
Carry a small caseload to provide harm reduction counseling and treatment navigation
Conduct assessments using frameworks such as Stages of Change
Re-engage clients in collaboration with housing partners
Distribute naloxone and fentanyl test strips as part of overdose prevention
Training & Outreach
Deliver harm reduction trainings for staff, community partners, and stakeholders
Provide accurate drug-related education to support client safety and provider capacity
Act as a subject matter resource to external agencies
Team Supervision
Supervise and support two Harm Reduction Counselors
Provide coaching, training, and performance feedback
Foster a supportive, client-centered team culture
Qualifications
Minimum Requirements
Associate degree and 3 years of human services experience, OR
Bachelor’s degree and 1 year of experience, OR
Equivalent lived experience supporting individuals who use drugs or navigate housing instability
Preferred Qualifications
Experience in harm reduction, behavioral health, or recovery-focused work
Familiarity with Illinois’ treatment and housing provider network
Credentials such as CRSS, CADC, LSW/LCSW, or LPC/LCPC
Prior experience in staff supervision or program leadership
What We Offer
Hybrid schedule (Monday–Friday)
Health Insurance – HMO and PPO options, some at no cost for qualifying employees
Dental and Vision Coverage
Generous Paid Time Off and Holidays
Retirement Plan – Roth and pre-tax options
Life and Disability Insurance
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Professional Development Opportunities
Optional Pet Insurance, Legal Assistance, and Discount Program
Salary : $55,000 - $65,000
