Harm Reduction and Outreach Worker

YMCA; Southwestern Ontario; On-site; CAD 30,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A community organization in Southwestern Ontario seeks a Harm Reduction and Outreach Worker to enhance services for vulnerable individuals facing addiction and social challenges. The role involves working within a multi-disciplinary team to implement harm reduction strategies aimed at improving overall community health. Applicants should have experience in addiction services and knowledge of health-related fields. This position prefers candidates with connections to First Nations communities.

Qualifications

• One year work experience in addiction services.
• Experience in a First Nation setting is an asset.
• Current Criminal Record and Vulnerable Sector Check.

Responsibilities

• Provide a harm reduction strategy for community members.
• Improve services for those with complex drug and social challenges.
• Reduce transmission of blood-borne infections.

Skills

Crisis intervention

Negotiation and conflict resolution

Health education and promotion

Knowledge of community resources

Proficient with Microsoft Office

Education

Post-secondary diploma in health-related field

Job description

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Application Deadline Date: August 15, 2025

Under the direction of the Health Manager, the Harm Reduction and Outreach Worker will work as part of a multi-disciplinary team to provide a harm reduction strategy that supports a balanced state of well-being among Chippewas of Nawash Unceded First Nation community members by: improving services for those who have complex drug and social challenges, reducing the harms related to the use of injection and inhaled drugs, including overdoses, reducing the transmission of blood-borne infections, while promoting the use of both traditional and western health services.

Qualifications:

• Post-secondary diploma in health-related field would be considered an asset
• One (1) year work experience in an addiction services role; experience in a First Nation setting would be considered a definite asset
• Knowledge of community resources, treatment centres, social service networks and organizations
• Understanding of the culture, people and mental health priorities of First Nations communities
• Crisis intervention experience
• Strong negotiation and conflict resolution skills to respond or assist in emergency situations
• Knowledge or experience working with people who are living with, at risk of or impacted by HIV/HCV; who may be vulnerable and marginalized; and may also be experiencing challenges related to mental health and or homelessness
• Experience or knowledge of working with people who may experience unstable/unpredictable behaviour due to mental health conditions and/or substance use including crisis, psychosis and various effects of withdrawal and overdose risk
• Experience or demonstrated ability to deliver health education and promotion
• Proficient with computers and Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, PowerPoint, Excel)
• Current Criminal Record and Vulnerable Sector Check
• CPR and First Aid or ability to obtain with probationary period

Equivalencies that include a combination of education and experience may be considered.

How to Apply?

Drop off or mail to: Administration Office, Chippewas of Nawash Unceded First Nation, 135 Lakeshore Blvd. Neyaashiinigmiing, Ontario, N0H 2T0. Identify position applied for on outside of the envelope. Fax: [phone] E-mail: [e-mail] For more information or to obtain a copy of the job description, please visit our website https://www.nawash.ca/employment-opportunities/ or by call the Band Office at 519.534.1689

· Preference will be given to CNUFN Band Members and those of Aboriginal decent who identify at time of application

· Due to the nature of positions, a recent acceptable Criminal Record and or Vulnerable Sector Check may be requested and paid by the Employer

· While COVID-19 vaccinations are not currently mandatory, they are encouraged for the safety of all employees, clients and community as a whole; a policy is in place, and accommodations are provided for those unvaccinated

· All applications are appreciated, however, only those selected to interview will be contacted. We strive to provide current CNUFN Employees and CNUFN Band Members with correspondence in regards to the status of their application/candidacy

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