Position Details
Job Number:
JR01171
Department:
Substance Use and Addiction SUAP Cap Build Team
Job Type:
Temporary (Fixed Term), Part time
Work Environment:
In-Person
Contract Duration: (If applicable)
12 months
Number of Positions:
5
Hourly Rate (Min / Max):
$30.4265 - $35.2731
Schedule
Work Days:
Holidays, Monday to Sunday
Time of Day:
Afternoons, Days, Nights
Shift:
Hours - 7.5
Shift Start: (If applicable)
Reason for Posting:
Posting is for a new role
Application Dates
Opening Date:
2026-07-16
Closing Date:
2026-07-23
Job Description
Unit Profile:
The Substance Use Service (SUS) operates within the Medicine Program at St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton. SUS is a multidisciplinary team comprised of physicians, nurses, mental health workers, and peer support providers with lived experience.
The team provides support to individuals who use substances and are accessing care through the Emergency Department, inpatient units, and outpatient services. SUS also offers follow-up support after discharge, helping individuals connect with outpatient treatment, hospital services, and community-based health and social supports.
SUS works from a harm reduction approach , recognizing and respecting each individual’s right to make their own decisions regarding substance use and overall health. Services include assessment, consultation, shared care, care coordination, and capacity building across St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton and community partner organizations.
Position Summary:
The Peer Support Provider delivers both formal and informal peer support to individuals who use substances and are accessing hospital-based care.
In this role, the Peer Support Provider works with patients in both inpatient and outpatient settings, with a focus on harm reduction, engagement, and improving access to health care services. Responsibilities include providing support within the hospital and throughout the community, including shelters, supportive housing settings, encampments, and community-based agencies.
The primary focus of this position is to help individuals access and navigate health care services during and following their hospital experience. While knowledge of substance use and harm reduction is essential, the role is not focused on changing or addressing a person’s substance use unless that is identified as a goal by the individual receiving support.
Qualifications:
Minimum one (1) year of experience (paid or volunteer) providing peer support within a harm reduction, health care, or community-based setting.
Personal lived experience with substance use, homelessness, or other relevant life experiences.
Demonstrated understanding and application of peer support values and principles, including hope, recovery, self-determination, mutuality, empathy, dignity, respect, social inclusion, wellness, and personal growth.
Ability to model effective self-care and self-management practices, recognizing the importance of resilience, wellness, and ongoing personal development in peer support work.
Knowledge of substance use, harm reduction principles and practices, and community resources available to people who use substances.
ASIST (Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training) or comparable suicide intervention training is preferred; training may be provided.
Strong assessment, crisis intervention, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team.
Demonstrated flexibility and adaptability in responding to changing priorities and work assignments.
Commitment to continuous learning and professional development.
Ability to perform effectively under pressure, both independently and as a member of a team.
Reliable attendance and a strong employment record are essential.
St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton (SJHH) is an equal opportunity employer and strives for equity, inclusiveness, and diversity in all our programs, practices, facilities, and people. We foster a culture of patient and staff safety where all positions comply and work in conjunction with the Mission, Vision, and Core Values of SJHH.
We thank all applicants for their interest, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. SJHH is committed to a barrier-free recruitment and selection process - please inform us should accommodation be required at any point in the recruitment process.
