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Youth Services Peer Support Worker

Okanagan Indian Band

Vernon

On-site

CAD 30,000 - 60,000

Full time

2 days ago

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Job summary

A community-focused organization in Vernon is seeking a Youth Services Peer Support Worker to empower Indigenous youth. Key responsibilities include mentoring, facilitating programs, and offering guidance based on lived experiences. Candidates should have a diploma in social services, relevant certifications, and a commitment to cultural sensitivity. The role offers competitive hourly pay and a range of benefits, making it an excellent opportunity to contribute to local youth wellness.

Benefits

3 Weeks’ Vacation Pay

Extended Health and Dental Benefits

Employer Matched Pension Plan

15 Paid Sick Days

Professional Development Opportunities

Qualifications

Education in social services or related field.
Experience in peer support or community engagement.
Criminal record check with vulnerable sector check.

Responsibilities

Build relationships with youth through mentorship.
Facilitate cultural activities and programs.
Provide peer support and guidance to youth.
Maintain professional documentation of progress.

Skills

Cultural sensitivity

Communication skills

Problem-solving

Mentorship

Team collaboration

Education

Diploma in Social Services

Certificates in Mental Health First Aid and CPR

Valid BC Driver's license, Class 5

Youth Services Peer Support Worker

Located within the unceded territory of the syilx people, the Okanagan Indian Band is comprised of six reserves located in the North Okanagan.

Come join the OKIB Team and enjoy all that the beautiful Okanagan Valley has to offer, including a great climate, stunning scenery, world‑class ski resorts, golf courses, wineries and beaches.

The OKIB offers a welcoming team environment and a rewarding job experience. You can expect a supportive work environment and a total compensation package which includes:

3 Weeks’ Vacation Pay
Extended Health and Dental Benefits
Employer Matched Pension Plan
15 Statutory Holidays
Paid Winter Holiday Break
Cultural Leave
Discounted Silver Star lift passes
Retention Bonuses after years of service
15 Paid Sick Days
Paid Personal Leave
Employee Assistance Program
Professional Development Opportunities

Hours of work: 37.5 hours per week

Start Date: ASAP

Deadline for applications: January 4, 2026

Job Summary

The Youth Services Peer Support Worker uses their lived experience as a young person who has navigated challenges (e.g., system involvement, mental health, cultural disconnection) to support other youth on their healing journey. The role helps youth feel seen, heard and empowered through peer mentorship and cultural connection.

Reporting Structure

Reports to the Youth Services Team Lead.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

Build strong peer relationships with youth through shared experiences and culturally safe mentorship
Offer hope, encouragement, and guidance to youth facing hardship, isolation, or stigma
Co‑facilitate youth programs, cultural activities, workshops, and land‑based outings to promote engagement and learning
Provide outreach and follow‑up with youth between formal appointments or programs to maintain connection and support
Assist with transportation for youth to attend events, programs, and appointments as needed.
Share personal experiences appropriately to help youth with goal‑setting, problem‑solving, and resilience‑building
Encourage pride in identity, language, culture, and Indigenous worldviews in all interactions.
Collaborate with team members, attend planning meetings, and participate in program debriefs
Model healthy boundaries, accountability, and self‑care practices for youth
Meet with youth one‑on‑one to provide mentorship, encouragement, and guidance
Assist in planning and delivering recreational, cultural, and wellness activities that promote holistic well‑being
Support youth participation in leadership opportunities and community decision‑making
Help youth navigate challenges related to school, friendships, and family life through advocacy and mentorship
Maintain confidentiality, professionalism, and accurate documentation of program activities and youth progress
Perform all duties & responsibilities in accordance with the OKIB policies & procedures
All persons employed by the OKIB may be required to assist the Band in providing emergency services. Duties assigned during an emergency may differ from regular duties
Participate in community events as requested
Perform other duties as required

Who Are We Looking For

You have education, experience, or an equivalent combination may be considered. You are community‑minded, detail‑oriented, have a willingness to contribute to a team and an excellent communicator.

Education

Diploma in a Social Services program and successful completion of a recognized Peer Support Training program preferred
Certificates in Mental Health First Aid, CPR or willingness to obtain
Valid BC Driver’s licence, Class 5 and reliable vehicle
Valid Criminal record Check with vulnerable Sector Check
Consideration will be given to those with a combination of education and experience

Experience

Lived experience as an Indigenous youth or young adult who has overcome adversity
Computer skills including the ability to operate spreadsheet and word‑processing programs
Demonstrated involvement in cultural, community or peer support initiatives
Experience working with confidential information
Knowledge of local community resources and services
Experience working with First Nations communities

Competencies (KSAs & Desired Attributes)

Possesses cultural appropriateness and sensitivity towards OKIB and Community
Willingness to work with diverse First Nations populations with Mental Health and Substance Use related issues and to recognize and respond appropriately to the needs of the peers and clients – in support of local First Nations communities and their Mental Health and Wellness teams
Willingness to learn and share with client and colleagues:
- principles of recovery in mental illness and crisis intervention
- peer‑run programs
- Mental Health and Substance Use, recovery principles and treatment including methadone and suboxone
- Mental health and addictions ressources and community services that can be recommended to clients
- Knowledge and skills of advocacy, empowerment, and mental health recovery principles
Ability to understand and follow a strength‑based approach for sharing challenges and co‑creating solutions
Ability to adjust to new or unexpected events, analyze complex situations, problem‑solve, think critically and deal effectively with conflict situations
Ability to plan, organize, prioritize, facilitate and monitor program progress across the sub‑region
Ability to provide direction and demonstrated ability of facilitation skills
Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing
Ability to work independently and in cooperation with others
Physical ability to perform the duties of the position
Team oriented approach to leadership and a commitment to a peer driven process
Ability to work both independently and collaboratively as a member of a virtual interdisciplinary team.
Values and recognizes diversity among First Nation, Inuit and Metis communities including differently abled and LGBTQ2S populations