| Sumario: | In this qualitative study, we gathered the perspectives of workforce development professionals, employers, and substance use treatment providers on the employment needs of individuals with opioid use disorder (OUD) and the feasibility of using the Barriers to Employment Success Inventory (BESI) to support these individuals to enter or re-enter the workforce. Using a purposive approach to sampling, 33 individuals were recruited, with 6 participating in an interview and 27 participating in a focus group. Rapid qualitative analysis was used to review the transcripts. Access to basic resources (e.g., housing, transportation, childcare, work-appropriate clothing, a computer and internet connectivity, and training opportunities) was a major barrier to employment. Due to the significance of this barrier, the BESI, while potentially useful for individuals with OUD, might not be appropriate or helpful to use when basic needs are unmet. This finding suggests that workforce development assessments and interventions for people with OUD should integrate a comprehensive evaluation, including access to basic resources as access may impact employment stability. Additional considerations for the use of the BESI with individuals with OUD are also provided.
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