Overdose Prevention Site Worker

The Overdose Prevention Site (OPS) Worker plays a vital role in promoting harm reduction and providing life-saving interventions within an overdose prevention site. As an OPS Worker, you will be responsible for creating a safe and supportive environment for individuals who use drugs, with the primary goal of preventing fatal overdoses and connecting individuals to additional healthcare and support services. You will work closely with a multidisciplinary team and directly interact with clients to provide education, overdose response, crisis intervention, and referrals to appropriate resources.

Shifts: We have 2 different shift lines we need covered

1. Sunday, Monday and Tuesday repeating weekly. Each shift is 12 hours each from 11am-11pm (36 hours per week)

2. Saturdays repeating weekly, 11am-11pm (12 hours per week)

**Responsibilities**:
Overdose Prevention and Response:
Monitor clients in the overdose prevention site to identify potential overdoses promptly.
Administer naloxone and provide emergency response during overdose situations.
Follow established protocols to respond to overdoses effectively and ensure clients' safety.
Document and report all incidents, interventions, and observations accurately and promptly.

Harm Reduction and Education:
Engage with clients in a non-judgmental and compassionate manner to establish rapport and trust.
Provide information and education on safer drug use practices, harm reduction strategies, and overdose prevention techniques.
Supervises people to administer their own drugs.
Assists with stocking, organizing and inventory of supplies.
Distribute harm reduction supplies, including clean needles, naloxone kits, and other related materials and ensures safe disposal of used equipment in accordance with establish protocols
Conduct individual and group counseling sessions to support clients in reducing risks associated with drug use.

Client Support and Referrals:
Offer emotional support and crisis intervention to clients experiencing distress or challenges related to substance use.
Assess clients' needs and connect them to appropriate resources, including healthcare services, addiction treatment programs, housing support, mental health services, and social assistance programs.
Collaborate with external service providers and engage in advocacy to ensure clients receive comprehensive care and follow-up support.

Documentation and Data Management:
Maintain accurate and confidential records of client interactions, interventions, and referrals.
Complete incident reports, progress notes, and other required documentation in a timely manner.
Compile and analyze data related to overdose incidents, interventions, and outcomes to identify trends and make recommendations for program improvement.

Team Collaboration and Professional Development:
Work collaboratively with the multidisciplinary team, including nurses, social workers, outreach workers, and peer support workers.
Attend regular team meetings, case conferences, and training sessions to enhance knowledge and skills in overdose prevention, harm reduction, and addiction support.
Stay updated with current research, best practices, and relevant policies related to substance use, harm reduction, and overdose prevention.
All other duties as may be assigned within the scope of this position.

Qualifications:
Minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent; a relevant post-secondary degree or certificate is an asset.
Experience and knowledge of harm reduction principles, substance use, and overdose prevention strategies.
Familiarity with community resources and services for individuals who use drugs, including addiction treatment programs, mental health services, and housing support.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to establish rapport and build trust with diverse populations.
Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, unpredictable environment with individuals experiencing crises.
Non-judgmental and compassionate approach towards people who use drugs.
Ability to maintain confidentiality and adhere to ethical guidelines and professional boundaries.
First Aid and CPR certification, including naloxone administration training, or willingness to obtain certification.
Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends.

**Job Type**: Part-time

**Benefits**:
Dental care
Extended health care
Paid time off
Flexible Language Requirement:
French not required

Application question(s):
Are you located in Squamish or the surrounding area and able to commute and work in-person?

Work Location: In person