Utilization Review Coordinator – Behavioral Health

Avenues Recovery Center is Now Hiring: Utilization Review Specialists
Avenues Recovery Center is a nationwide network of drug and alcohol rehabilitation centers with eighteen locations across seven states. We provide highly individualized, evidence-based treatment in clean, modern settings across all levels of care including detox, residential, PHP, IOP, and outpatient services.
Our success is driven by our people and a strong clinical model that has helped transform thousands of lives. We are seeking a Utilization Review Specialist to join our corporate team in New Jersey and support authorization, clinical documentation integrity, and continued stay coordination across our network.
Position Overview
Location: Corporate office - New Jersey
Schedule: Full-time
The Utilization Review Specialist ensures timely authorization of client services, supports appropriate level-of-care determinations, and partners closely with clinical and billing teams to maintain accurate documentation and continuity of care across facilities.
This role requires strong communication, attention to detail, and the ability to collaborate across clinical, administrative, and billing departments.
Key Responsibilities
Utilization Review & Authorization Management
Field incoming calls, emails, and documentation requests related to client authorizations
Ensure timely approval and continuation of services at the appropriate level of care
Manage client caseloads and support authorization workflows across facilities
Advocate for continued stay based on clinical documentation and treatment needs
Clinical & Billing Collaboration
Work closely with billing and clinical teams to identify and resolve authorization issues
Communicate with facility leadership regarding UR status and documentation needs
Support coordination between treatment teams and administrative departments
Documentation & Compliance
Maintain accurate electronic records of all UR activity and authorization communications
Ensure documentation meets internal standards and payer requirements
Assist in identifying gaps in charting and supporting improvements in documentation workflows
Systems & Process Improvement
Assist in creating standardized templates and UR workflows across facilities
Work with site leaders to ensure consistent implementation of processes
Support improvement of internal UR systems and efficiency initiatives
Qualifications
Required / Preferred Education
High school diploma or GED required
Bachelor's degree preferred
Nursing background, clinical background or healthcare knowledge strongly preferred
Experience
Minimum 1 year of experience in behavioral health, healthcare, or treatment setting preferred
Experience with utilization review, insurance authorization, or medical billing strongly preferred
Core Skills
Strong communication (written and verbal)
Excellent interpersonal and collaboration skills
Strong attention to detail and documentation accuracy
Ability to manage multiple cases and deadlines
Sound judgment and critical thinking
Flexible, team-oriented, and adaptable in a fast-paced environment
Willing to train
Why Join Avenues?
At Avenues, our people are our greatest strength. We foster a culture of support, collaboration, and purpose-driven work, where every team member is valued and empowered to make an impact.
We provide the tools, resources, and benefits needed to help you succeed both personally and professionally.
Comprehensive Benefits
401(k) with employer match
Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
Accident, Critical Illness, and Hospital Indemnity coverage
Employer-paid Life and AD&D Insurance
Short- and Long-Term Disability options
Legal coverage and Identity Theft Protection
Pet Insurance
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Flexible Spending Accounts (Medical & Dependent Care)

Join our growing team and discover the magic here at Avenues!
Apply today!