Here is a more advanced and realistic version of the job description. This version uses stronger industry terminology (e.g., \"drug poisoning,\" \"low-barrier,\" \"biohazardous,\" \"vicarious trauma\") to reflect the actual complexity and intensity of an Overdose Prevention Site (OPS) environment.
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About the Role: As the OPS Shift Lead, you will assume operational command of the Overdose Prevention Site floor, ensuring the delivery of high-quality, low-barrier harm reduction services. This role demands a high degree of situational awareness and clinical judgment. You will act as the primary point of contact during critical incidents, providing mentorship to peer staff and OPS workers while fostering a culturally safe, trauma-informed atmosphere for marginalized populations. The Shift Lead plays a pivotal role in bridging the gap between immediate crisis intervention and long-term health advocacy.
Key Responsibilities:
Operational Leadership & Supervision:
Lead pre-shift briefings and post-incident debriefings to ensure team cohesion and mental well-being.
Provide real-time coaching and mentorship to Peer Support Workers, ensuring adherence to organizational values and privacy policies.
Manage shift logistics, including break rotations and maintaining appropriate staff-to-participant ratios.
Critical Incident Response:
Lead the response to medical emergencies, specifically drug poisonings/overdoses, utilizing advanced protocols (IM/Intranasal Naloxone administration, airway management/oxygen therapy, and pulse oximetry).
Coordinate seamless transfers of care with Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and Police when required.
Client Engagement & Support:
Apply de-escalation techniques and non-violent crisis intervention strategies to manage behavioral escalations in a high-stress environment.
Utilize motivational interviewing and supportive counseling techniques to facilitate referrals to withdrawal management (detox), opioid agonist therapy (OAT), and housing providers.
Health & Safety Compliance:
Oversee the safe handling and disposal of biohazardous materials (sharps) and strictly enforce infection control standards.
Perform rigorous data collection and shift reporting (intake stats, overdose reversals, referrals) for Ministry reporting requirements.
Monitor the site for occupational hazards and ensure all harm reduction supplies are stocked and accessible.
Qualifications & Competencies:
Education:
Certifications:
Standard First Aid with CPR Level C (HCP level preferred).
Non-Violent Crisis Intervention (NVCI) or similar de-escalation training.
ASIST (Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training) is a strong asset.
Experience & Knowledge:
Minimum 2+ years of front-line experience working with individuals experiencing homelessness, substance use disorders, or concurrent disorders.
Lived Experience: Demonstrated lived experience with substance use or recovery is highly valued and considered an equivalent to formal education.
Deep understanding of the principles of Harm Reduction, Trauma-Informed Care, and Anti-Oppressive Practice.
Proficiency in administering Naloxone and familiarity with current street drug trends.
Additional Information about the job:
Shift Days :Monday,Tuesday,Wednesday,Thursday,Friday,Saturday,Sunday
Schedule: Day,Evening Shift
