Certified Addictions Recovery Coach in a Research Study

Certified Addictions Recovery Coach

We are recruiting two Massachusetts state-certified Addictions Recovery Coaches (CARCs) to join an NIH-funded research study. In this role, coaches will utilize motivational interviewing techniques while working with individuals with opioid use disorder to assess the effectiveness of non-medication-based interventions for people taking buprenorphine provided in Office Based Addiction Treatment (OBAT).

Position Type: Part-time interventionist in a research study.

 

Employer: Boston University School of Public Health

 

About the Study: We are conducting a research study to evaluate non-medication interventions (treatments) for people entering medication treatment for opioid use disorder. We want to increase the amount of time people remain in medication treatment. The recovery coach will play a central role in participant engagement and delivery of study-related peer support.

Position Summary: The Certified Addictions Recovery Coach (CARC) will leverage their personal experience with opioid use and recovery to assist research participants. The CARC will be trained, per the study protocol, in motivational interviewing to help retain participants in treatment and reduce barriers to access. They will work closely with researchers, clinicians, and project staff.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide protocolized motivational interviewing aimed at exploring barriers and facilitators to remaining in treatment through virtual (telephone or video calls) one-on-one meetings of approximately 20 minutes in duration every other week.
• Document interactions with participants according to research protocols.
• Collaborate with the research team during team meetings, case reviews, and protocol discussions.
• Participate in fidelity assessments with research team to ensure the intervention is being delivered consistently across providers and participants.
• Maintain strict confidentiality and adhere to ethical research procedures.
• Offer insight based on lived experience to strengthen study design, procedures, and participant care.

Required Qualifications

• Certification as a Certified Addictions Recovery Coach (CARC) in the state of Massachusetts.
• Personal lived experience with opioid use disorder and buprenorphine as treatment, with at least 12 months of sustained recovery.
• Ability to communicate with empathy, professionalism, and cultural humility.
• Strong organizational skills and reliability in documenting interactions and following study protocols.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Comfort working with individuals from diverse backgrounds, including those with co-occurring mental health challenges.
• Basic computer skills (email, data entry, online survey tools).

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience working in harm reduction, recovery support services, or healthcare settings.
• Prior knowledge of motivational interviewing concepts.
• Experience working on research studies or familiarity with research ethics (CITI researcj training can be provided).
• Knowledge of local treatment, recovery, and support resources.
• We would consider individuals who are in the process of obtaining their CARC (individuals who have CARC-submitted and are test-ready).

Work Environment

• Work can be completed remotely with flexible scheduling.
• Position will be supported at 15% effort or approximately 6 hours per week
• We expect the position to be funded for 2-2.5 years.
• Some evening or weekend hours may be required to meet participant needs.

Why Join Us

• Opportunity to support individuals in recovery while contributing to research that can improve treatment systems and outcomes.
• Supportive team environment with ongoing training and professional development.
• Chance to use your personal experience to positively impact others and advance scientific knowledge.

How to Apply

Please submit:

• A resume
• A brief statement (3–5 sentences) describing your recovery experience and why you are interested in this role
• Contact information for two references

Send materials to: @email

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.