Harm Reduction Outreach Worker
Location: Durham Region
Status: Full-Time
Schedule: Day, Monday to Friday - 8am to 4pm, occasional weekends may be required
Reports to: Harm Reduction Program Coordinator
Vacancy: 1 position
Union: CUPE, 2938.13
Benefits: Yes, (Health, Dental, Life, LTD, Accident, Mileage reimbursement)
About Us
We are committed to meeting people where they’re at — without judgment, without stigma, and without coercion. Our Harm Reduction Outreach Program prioritizes human rights, dignity, and self-determination while helping reduce the risks associated with substance use, including overdose, HCV, and HIV. We work alongside individuals to promote safer practices, connect them to community supports, and help remove barriers to health and well-being.
If you believe in compassion, dignity, and empowering people to make safer choices, we’d love to have you on our team.
About the Role
As our Harm Reduction Outreach Worker, you will be out in the community, building trust with people who use substances, individuals experiencing homelessness, sex workers, and other marginalized or at-risk groups. You’ll distribute harm reduction supplies, offer life-saving information and resources, respond to overdoses when needed, and connect people to services that can make a difference.
This is a role for someone who thrives in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and can balance empathy with practical problem-solving.
What You’ll Do
Engage directly with individuals in the community using a trauma-informed, non-judgmental approach.
Distribute harm reduction supplies and promote safe disposal of paraphernalia.
Provide information, education, and practical supports to promote safer practices.
Respond to overdoses and provide naloxone training to clients and community members.
Connect clients to health, housing, and community supports.
Support community clean-up efforts and outreach events.
Help create and distribute program materials to reach and engage the target population.
Participate in community events, workshops, and awareness campaigns.
Maintain accurate program data, inventory, and incident reports.
What You Bring
Diploma in Addictions & Mental Health, Social Services, or related field.
Experience working within a harm reduction framework in addictions counselling, social service work, or healthcare.
Knowledge of substances, safer use practices, and communicable disease prevention.
Strong active listening and crisis intervention skills.
Familiarity with community and healthcare services in Durham Region.
Competence with Microsoft Office, email, and databases.
Valid G driver’s license, access to a personal vehicle, and $2 million liability insurance.
Hepatitis B vaccinations completed.
Flexibility to work days, evenings, and some weekends.
Working Conditions
Work in both office and community settings, including outdoor environments and various terrains.
Exposure to infectious materials may occur.
Frequent walking, standing, and lifting up to 35 lbs.
Manual dexterity required for computer and equipment use.
Why Join Us?
Make a real difference in people’s lives every day.
Be part of a team that values respect, compassion, and empowerment.
Work in a dynamic environment where no two days are the same.
How to Apply:
Please submit your resume and cover letter outlining your interest and qualifications to https://jhsdurham.bamboohr.com/careers/423
Applications will be accepted until August 24, 2025.
