Behavioral Health Utilization Review Specialist

THE JOB: Under general supervision, support in monitoring the Mental Health Plan and Drug-Medi-Cal Organized Delivery System (DMC-ODS), including review of medical records to ensure proper utilization of treatment resources and quality of care for clients receiving behavioral health treatment. UR Specialists also interpret, advise and train staff on federal, state and county regulations, address client concerns, advocate for quality client treatment practices with all Medi-Cal providers, support in audit preparation for Behavioral Health and perform other duties as required. This position will lead efforts to strengthen equitable, culturally and linguistically appropriate services (CLAS) across the Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder branches of the Behavioral Health Division, and will spearhead a multi-agency collaborative dedicated to advancing this work. The ideal candidate would have knowledge of culturally appropriate psychological and social aspects of substance use and mental health treatment including the impacts of trauma and would have excellent collaboration and communication skills.

The option for hybrid remote work may be available based on the type of work and operational needs, upon successful completion of probation. The list established will be used to fill the current and future vacancies during the life of the eligible list.

THE REQUIREMENTS: Any combination of education and experience, which would provide the required knowledge and abilities, is qualifying, unless otherwise specified. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:

Possession of a master’s degree with a major in Social Work, Psychology, Psychiatric Nursing, Marriage and Family Therapy, Registered Nursing or a closely related science field which has included completion of a university approved internship and the equivalent to one year of experience at the level of Senior Behavioral Health Client Specialist.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: License, Registration: Possession of a license as a Clinical Social Worker, Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), Clinical Psychologist, or Registered Nurse.

Background Investigation: Fingerprinting is required.

HOW TO APPLY: Apply online at www.santacruzcountyjobs.com or mail/bring an application and supplemental questionnaire to: Santa Cruz County Human Resources Department, 701 Ocean Street, Room 510, Santa Cruz, CA 95060. For information, call (831) 454-2600. Hearing Impaired TDD/TTY: 711.  Applications will meet the final filing date if received:  1) in the Human Resources Department by 5:00 p.m. on the final filing date, 2) submitted online before midnight of the final filing date.

Women, people of color, and people with disabilities are encouraged to apply.  If you have a disability that requires test accommodation, please call (831) 454-2600.

To comply with the 1986 Immigration Reform and Control Act, Santa Cruz County verifies that all new employees are either U.S. citizens or persons authorized to work in the U.S.

Some positions may require Fingerprinting and/or Background Investigation.