Job Description
Pre-Release Care Manager (County Classification: B.H. Clinician III) - Limited Term is listed by County of San Luis Obispo.
The San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Office is hiring a Pre-Release Care Manager (Behavioral Health Clinician III) to work in forensic social work at the County Jail.
This limited-term, full-time position is part of the California Advancing and Innovating Medi-Cal (CalAIM) Justice-Involved Initiative, which requires correctional facilities to provide targeted pre-release services to eligible individuals before release.
Qualification
Candidates must meet the county classification requirements for B.H. Clinician III, which typically include a master's degree in social work, psychology, counseling, or a related field and relevant clinical experience. Licensure or eligibility for licensure as an LCSW, LMFT, LPCC, or equivalent is often required.
- Master's degree in social work, psychology, counseling, or a closely related behavioral health field.
- Licensure or eligibility for licensure as an LCSW, LMFT, LPCC, or equivalent.
- Experience in forensic social work, correctional mental health, or reentry case management preferred.
- Knowledge of CalAIM Justice-Involved Initiative and pre-release service requirements.
- Ability to create complete reentry care plans and coordinate warm handoffs.
- Strong collaboration skills to work with correctional staff, healthcare providers, and community organizations.
- Experience with discharge planning and enhanced care management coordination.
- Valid California driver's license and ability to travel locally as needed.
Role Responsibilities
Serve as a case manager for a caseload of incarcerated individuals eligible for pre-release services.
- Develop individualized reentry care plans addressing mental health, substance use, housing, and medical needs.
- Facilitate warm handoffs to community-based care managers upon release.
- Coordinate with discharge planners and enhanced care management providers to ensure continuity of care.
- Collaborate with correctional and healthcare staff within the County Jail setting.
- Document all services and care coordination activities in accordance with county and state requirements.
- Attend team meetings and participate in training related to CalAIM initiatives.
- Provide crisis intervention and brief behavioral health support as needed.
Conditions & Requirements
Must be able to work onsite at the San Luis Obispo County Jail.
- Background check and security clearance required for correctional facility access.
- Compliance with county immunization and health screening policies.
- Ability to work with a diverse, incarcerated population in a secure environment.
- Limited-term position with an expected duration tied to CalAIM funding.
Benefits
Competitive salary range of $89,939
- $120,515 per year.
- Full-time employment with county benefits package (health, dental, vision, retirement).
- Paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave.
- Opportunity to work in a specialized forensic behavioral health role.
- Professional development and training in CalAIM and reentry services.
Additional Information
This is a limited-term position funded by the CalAIM Justice-Involved Initiative; duration may be extended based on funding.
- The position is located at the San Luis Obispo County Jail, 1055 Monterey Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93408.
- Candidates must be able to pass a background check and obtain clearance to work in a correctional facility.
- The county offers a complete benefits package including CalPERS retirement.
- For questions about the position, contact the San Luis Obispo County Sheriff's Office Human Resources.
- Veterans and individuals with lived experience in the justice system are encouraged to apply.
- The county is an equal opportunity employer.
About Company
San Luis Obispo County is a local government entity serving the Central Coast of California. The Sheriff's Office operates the county jail and provides law enforcement, corrections, and community safety services. This role is part of the Behavioral Health Department, which collaborates with the Sheriff's Office to deliver mental health and reentry services. The Pre-Release Care Manager position supports the CalAIM Justice-Involved Initiative, a statewide effort to improve health outcomes for individuals leaving incarceration. The county is committed to reducing recidivism and enhancing continuity of care through evidence-based practices.
FAQs
What does a Pre-Release Care Manager do on a daily basis?
You will manage a caseload of incarcerated individuals, develop reentry care plans, coordinate with discharge planners and community providers, and facilitate warm handoffs upon release. Daily tasks include documentation, team meetings, and direct interaction with clients in the jail setting.
Is this position eligible for remote or hybrid work?
No, this role is fully onsite at the San Luis Obispo County Jail. You must be physically present to work with incarcerated individuals and collaborate with correctional and healthcare staff.
Can experience substitute for the master's degree requirement?
The county classification for B.H. Clinician III typically requires a master's degree in a behavioral health field. However, equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered; check the full job announcement for substitution policies.
What is the selection process timeline?
After the August 2, 2026 deadline, applications are reviewed and qualified candidates are invited for an oral interview. The process may take several weeks, including background checks and medical evaluations.
What documents are required to apply?
You must submit a completed online application and supplemental questionnaire. Proof of licensure or licensure eligibility is required. Transcripts and a resume may be requested later.