Registered Nurse: Alternative Response Unit

This is a temporary role, currently expected to run through Oct 1, 2025– Jan 2, 2026. While it's not a permanent position, it plays a key role in supporting our mission during a critical period. Eligibility for benefits may vary based on hours worked and length of assignment. Opportunity for extension will be based on organization need and employee performance. You will remain as an at-will employee subject to the organization's performance and termination policies.

Reports to: Director of Special Programs

Direct Reports: 2 Community Health Workers

Status: Full Time

FLSA Status: Non-exempt

About Cardea Health:

Cardea Health is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing compassionate health care to marginalized populations. Our mission is to create and support programs that protect the health and autonomy of vulnerable individuals and promote equity and social justice to improve the well-being of our entire community. We provide medical support to populations that experience homelessness.

At Cardea, we are dedicated to creating a workplace that celebrates diversity and actively seeks to include underrepresented communities. We believe that diversity drives innovation and fosters a more dynamic, inclusive, and productive work environment. We actively encourage individuals from underrepresented backgrounds to apply for our open positions. We value your unique perspectives, experiences, and talents, and we are committed to providing equitable opportunities for growth and advancement. Join us in building a team that reflects the rich diversity of our society and let's make a positive impact together.

Primary Work Location:

SAN LEANDRO – ALTERNATIVE RESPONSE UNIT: Based in San Leandro, this program is part of a pilot partnership with the City to provide community-based responses to non-violent 911 calls related to quality of life, wellbeing, or mental health and substance use crises. The Alternative Response Unit operates with a team that may include an LVN or RN, community health workers, and an emergency medical technician (EMT).

Job Summary:

Cardea Health is search of an organized and motivated person to work as a RN as part of the Alternative Response Unit Pilot Program with the City of San Leandro. They will work alongside community health workers and an emergency medical technician (EMT) to respond to non-violent 911 calls related to quality of life, wellbeing, or a mental health or substance use crisis. The alternative response unit will respond either instead of law enforcement, with law enforcement, or after law enforcement depending on the situation. The alternative response unit will provide de-escalation and treatment in the field and connect clients with needed resources.

They will provide a variety of functions to support alternative response unit. As part of an interdisciplinary team, you will provide culturally affirmative behavioral healthcare and advocacy for clients. This includes an assessment and diagnosis of a client’s behavioral health needs and recommendations for ongoing treatment and care.

The ideal candidate will be invested in Cardea Health’s mission of serving marginalized populations with compassion and empathy. They will need to be flexible, patient, and willing to work in challenging environments with a diverse population. Experience with homeless or incarcerated individuals is highly desirable. Experience in psychiatric nursing will also be considered. This is an excellent position for someone who is seeking to be a part of an organization that is creating innovative programs to serve the most vulnerable populations.