Certified Medication Aide (CMA)

General Description

Thrive Now Recovery Centers, in partnership with Ascension Recovery Services, is dedicated to assisting individuals on their path to recovery from substance use disorders and related behavioral health challenges. We are seeking Certified Medication Aides (CMA)/Recovery Support Specialists to join our care team.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Administer medications (oral, topical, non-parenteral only) as delegated by a supervising nurse in accordance with Iowa Board of Nursing and Board of Pharmacy regulations.
• Accurately document all medication administration in the EMR and report any errors or variances immediately.
• Observe and report client responses to medications, noting adverse reactions or side effects promptly to the supervising nurse.
• Maintain accurate medication counts, secure storage, and chain-of-custody procedures.
• Support nursing staff with vital signs, patient monitoring, and basic care tasks as delegated.
• Promote a safe, respectful, and therapeutic environment aligned with company Code of Ethics and Joint Commission standards.
• Participate in mandatory training and maintain current CMA certification.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Current Certified Medication Aide (CMA) credential recognized by the Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing (DIAL).
• Completion of an approved CMA training program and successful passage of competency testing.
• Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification (or ability to obtain within 30 days of hire).
• Prior experience in behavioral health, substance use treatment, or long-term care preferred.
• Must pass background check and drug screen.

Key Competencies

• Strong attention to detail and adherence to medication safety protocols.
• Compassionate, trauma-informed approach to client care.
• Effective communication with nursing staff, providers, and interdisciplinary team members.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality in compliance with HIPAA and 42 CFR Part 2.
• Dependable, punctual, and able to manage responsibilities in a structured environment.

Performance Expectations

• Zero medication errors or unreported variances.
• Compliance with all Joint Commission, state, and federal regulations.
• Consistently demonstrate company values: respect, integrity, responsibility, and engagement.
• Effective teamwork and collaboration with nursing and recovery staff.
• Maintain CMA certification and complete all required training on time.

Work Conditions

• Behavioral health treatment facility, residential and detox setting.
• Exposure to clients experiencing withdrawal, emotional distress, or behavioral challenges.
• Shifts may include evenings, weekends, and holidays based on facility needs.
• Frequent walking, standing, bending, and occasional lifting of up to 25 lbs.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Thrive Now Recovery Centers and Ascension Recovery Services are committed to equal employment opportunity. We comply with all federal, state, and local laws providing equal employment opportunities, and all other employment laws and regulations. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status.