PT Addiction Support Worker

Calgary Homeless Foundation; Calgary; On-site; CAD 30,000 - 60,000; Part time

Job summary

A community support organization in Calgary seeks an Addiction Support Worker for part-time work on weekends. This role involves direct client interaction in a shelter, primarily assisting individuals facing addiction. The ideal candidate will have experience with vulnerable populations, strong crisis management skills, and a background in human services. Competitive pay with additional night premium offered.

Benefits

Meaningful work supporting vulnerable populations

Training and development opportunities

Experience working in a non-profit

Qualifications

• Minimum two-year program related to Human Services or in progress.
• Front-line experience with vulnerable populations required.
• Understanding of addictions and mental health impacts.

Responsibilities

• Complete admissions and discharges for clients.
• Monitor clients' safety and well-being.
• Assess and facilitate entry of high intoxication clients.

Skills

Crisis management

Problem-solving

Empathy

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Education

Two-year program in Human Services

Bachelor's degree

Tools

MS Word

Excel

Outlook

Job description

Job Type : Permanent Part Time : Saturday & Sunday, 3pm-11pm

Pay : $24.95 + $2 night premium

About the Role

As an Addiction Support Worker, you will be front-line, working as part of a team, interacting directly with clients in our shelter, many of whom are homeless and under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol. Your primary responsibilities include:

• Completing admissions and discharges, including for clients under the influence
• Treating clients with respect and dignity, in a caring, non-judgmental manner
• Monitoring clients' safety and well-being, including withdrawal symptoms, and seeking support when needed
• Providing one-on-one support, including assistance with showering
• Monitoring the outside of the building, conducting rounds, and assisting clients sleeping near or inside the shelter in finding safe places
• Assessing high intoxication clients and facilitating their entry into the shelter, assisting physically if needed
• Attending to crisis situations such as seizures, disagreements, overdoses, both inside and outside the shelter
• Interacting with addiction agencies, community members, police, and EMS
• Representing Alpha House’s values and acting as a positive ambassador
• Performing daily chores, including cleaning and laundry
• Following protocols for cleaning up bodily fluids and disinfecting areas
• Providing clients with information on treatment options and making referrals
• Understanding and referencing policies and procedures
• Ensuring compliance with regulatory standards (MSDS, OH&S, WHMIS)
• Supporting other programs as needed, such as PSH, Outreach, or Detox / Stabilization

About You

We seek an Addiction Support Worker with:

• A minimum two-year program related to Human Services, or in progress, from a Public Post-Secondary Institution
• Front-line experience with vulnerable populations
• Understanding of addictions, harm reduction, trauma-informed care, crisis management, and mental health impacts
• High tolerance, compassion, and empathy towards homeless and addicted individuals
• Crisis management, problem-solving, rapport-building, and advocacy skills
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, respecting clients' dignity and confidentiality
• Diplomacy, conflict resolution, de-escalation, and people management skills
• Team-oriented with proficient English communication skills
• Understanding of ethical practices and the Protection of Persons in Care Act
• Computer skills in MS Word, Excel, and Outlook

Position Requirements

• Proof of COVID-19 vaccination
• Class 5 non-GDL license
• Two-year diploma or Bachelor's degree, or Indigenous traditional ceremony experience
• Vulnerable Sector Search within last six months, with no relevant results
• Ability to physically assist clients
• Completion of FOIP & “It’s your Move” or equivalent Patient Lift training

About Alpha House

Alpha House provides safe, respectful environments for individuals facing addiction and mental health challenges, supporting recovery and stability.

Benefits

• Meaningful work supporting vulnerable populations
• Training and development opportunities
• Experience working in a non-profit

If interested, please apply!