Chippewas of the Thames First Nation is accepting applications for the current vacancy of:
Youth Harm Reduction Worker
REPORTS TO: Cultural Harm Reduction Outreach Supervisor
DEPARTMENT: Health Department
LOCATION: Chippewa Health Centre, Chippewas of the Thames First Nation
TERM: Full-time, 37.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. (Evenings and weekends may be required)
POSTING DATE: August 18, 2026
CLOSING DATE: September 7, 2026
Summary:
The Youth Harm Reduction Outreach Worker provides community-based outreach services to individuals in their homes and on the street to increase the use of harm reduction materials, skills and strategies, helping reduce the risk of transmission of HIV, HCV and other blood borne illnesses. The role incorporates First Nation cultural components, including the First Nations Mental Wellness Continuum Framework Healing model, as well as Ojibway Language and Culture into programming and service delivery while supporting individuals through education, referrals, advocacy, community partnerships and access to cultural resources.
Responsibilities:
- Incorporate First Nation cultural components, including the First Nations Mental Wellness Continuum Framework Healing model, Ojibway Language and Culture into programming and service delivery.
- Provide harm reduction materials and supplies to the injection drug use population through consistent delivery and pickup services.
- Handle and transport used syringes and properly dispose of bio-hazardous materials in accordance with COTTFN policies and procedures.
- Provide educational materials and information on harm reduction, HIV, HCV and other blood borne illnesses.
- Provide support, information and referrals related to health promotion, community resources, traditional healers, ceremonies and medicines.
- Support individuals affected by or at risk of drug use, sex trade and homelessness, and advocate for clients as necessary.
- Respond to calls and prioritize and schedule delivery services requested by clients.
- Develop and deliver prevention, harm reduction and HIV/AIDS education presentations and programming to target populations and community members.
- Monitor statistical information on outreach contacts to identify current issues and develop strategies to address them.
- Maintain positive relationships with community partner agencies, liaise with appropriate community resources and strengthen community partnerships.
- Train staff and volunteers on syringe exchange protocol and promote the use of Harm Reduction Services through the Health Centre.
- Ensure statistical data entry is accurate and current, provide activity reports, and develop outreach program work plans, goals and objectives.
- Promote cultural resources available locally and regionally, as well as outreach activities to appropriate sources.
Qualifications:
- Education in the Addictions or Human Services field.
- Three (3) years of experience working in Human Services, preferably in the field of Harm Reduction and addiction.
- Proven work experience with mental illness, including psychodynamic theory and trauma counseling, and experience with crisis intervention.
- Experience working with marginalized populations.
- Demonstrated knowledge, understanding and respect for the First Nations’ way of life, with an in-depth understanding of Harm Reduction, HIV/AIDS, mental health, addiction, sexual health and related barriers First Nations communities may face.
- Working knowledge and proven experience with counseling techniques and an understanding of Social Assistance programs including ODSP, OW, RGI and Housing.
- Possess a valid driver’s licence, insurance and reliable vehicle, with the ability to travel and attend offsite meetings as required.
- Vulnerable Sector Police Record Check (Level III) and ability to maintain a clean record for the duration of employment; First Aid/CPR certification required.
- Must have complete, up-to-date immunization records, including 3 full doses of COVID-19 vaccine.
- Excellent verbal, written and presentation communication skills; strong interpersonal, organizational, time management, conflict resolution and computer skills, with the ability to maintain confidentiality and work independently or as part of a team.
What Chippewas of the Thames First Nation Has to Offer:
- Comprehensive benefits for permanent employees, supporting health, dental, and overall well-being.
- Employer-matched pension plan to help build long-term financial security.
- Access to a confidential Family Employee Assistance Program (EAP) to support mental, emotional, and family wellness.
- Two-week holiday closure over Christmas and New Year’s, providing dedicated time to rest and recharge with family and community.
Chippewas of the Thames First Nation gives hiring preference to qualified Indigenous applicants, with first preference given to qualified Chippewas of the Thames First Nation Band Members. Applicants who wish to be considered under this preference are encouraged to self-identify in their application.
Interested applicants, please submit a cover letter, resume, three work related references, photocopies of education documents to:
[email protected]
OR
320 Chippewa Road, Muncey, ON N0L 1Y0
Please indicate "Youth Harm Reduction Worker” in your application.
We thank all candidates for applying; however only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Accommodations are available on request (by email to [email protected]) for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process.
As a federally regulated employer, Chippewas of the Thames First Nation is not required to include compensation ranges in job postings. Depending on the nature of the recruitment and the position, we may choose to share salary or pay band information in the posting or during the early stages of the process. Compensation is always discussed with candidates during recruitment to ensure clarity and alignment with their expectations and experience.
Pay: From $45,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Company events
- Company pension
- Dental care
- Employee assistance program
- Extended health care
- Flexible schedule
- Life insurance
- Mileage reimbursement
- On-site parking
- Paid time off
Application question(s):
- Are you First Nation, Metis or Inuit?
- Do you have, or can you obtain, a current Vulnerable Sector Check?
Education:
Experience:
- human services : 3 years (required)
Licence/Certification:
- Driving Licence (required)
- First Aid & CPR Certification (preferred)
Work Location: In person
