Job Description

The Outreach Worker is a member of the Wellness Team and provides community-based outreach focused on harm reduction, wellness, and connection to care. This role supports individuals and families impacted by substance use and the toxic drug crisis, with a primary focus on utilizing the Mobile Opioid Prevention Services (MOPS) van and meeting people where they are at.

This position aligns with Jordan's Principle and First Nations Health Authority (FNHA) priorities by reducing barriers to care, supporting equitable access to services, and providing culturally safe, trauma-informed, and non-judgmental supports.

The Outreach Worker operates as a non-clinical frontline support role and works within clearly defined professional and cultural boundaries, prioritizing safety, dignity, and self-determination.

Key Responsibilities

Deliver outreach services using the Mobile Opioid Prevention Services van and through walking outreach Provide harm reduction supplies, overdose prevention education, and wellness supports Build trusting relationships and offer non-judgmental, culturally safe support Connect individuals and families to health care, mental health, addictions, and community resources Support navigation of services and reduce barriers to access Work collaboratively with the Wellness Team and community partners Utilize the MOPS van to support engagement, harm reduction, and service connection Coordinate with internal teams, treatment centres, health professionals, and community partners Maintain accurate, confidential client records in accordance with Cheam First Nation policies and procedures Participate in team meetings, case discussions, and care coordination activities Develop monthly and annual statistics related to program participation, outreach, and activities Assist in developing annual work plans and evaluation methods for wellness programs and activities Perform other related duties as assigned

Qualifications & Experience

Background in mental health, addictions, outreach, or social services First Aid - CPR & AED Reasonable Criminal Record Check and vulnerable sector check Lived experience with substance use or mental health (personal or family) is a strong asset Understanding of the toxic drug crisis and harm reduction principles Commitment to trauma-informed and culturally safe practice Ability to work independently in community settings, including walking outreach Valid Class 5 driver's license and ability to operate a mobile outreach vehicle Demonstrated understanding of trauma-informed, culturally safe, and harm-reduction-based practice Strong interpersonal skills and ability to build trust with individuals facing complex barriers Experience working with First Nations communities and Indigenous-led services This is a non-clinical role and does not provide counselling, therapy, medical advice, or case management The Outreach Worker offers education, support, referrals, and navigation only Naloxone training or willingness to complete required training

Working Conditions

This position is primarily community-based and includes office work, mobile outreach, walking outreach, and home visits, as required Regular use of the Mobile Opioid Prevention Services (MOPS) van, including driving and providing outreach services in various weather conditions Work involves frequent interaction with individuals who may be experiencing substance use, mental health challenges, trauma, crisis situations, or housing instability Exposure to emotionally demanding situations requiring strong self-regulation, boundaries, and use of trauma-informed practices Flexible work schedule required, including evenings, weekends, and irregular hours, to meet community needs Ability to work independently in the field while maintaining regular communication with the Wellness Team Physical requirements may include standing, walking, bending, lifting light supplies, and prolonged periods of driving Adherence to all health, safety, confidentiality, and cultural protocols of Cheam First Nation is required at all times

How to Apply

Apply by submitting your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and interest in this role.

Cheam First Nation is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to fostering a respectful, inclusive, and culturally safe workplace. We welcome and encourage applications from all qualified individuals, including Indigenous Peoples, women, persons with disabilities, members of visible minorities, and persons of all sexual orientations and gender identities.

As an Indigenous organization, preference will be given to qualified Indigenous applicants (First Nations, Metis, and Inuit).

All applicants are encouraged to voluntarily self-identify in their application if they are a member of an equity-deserving group.

Thank you for your interest in joining our team at Cheam. We appreciate the time and effort you have taken to apply for this role.

Please note that only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted. We thank all applicants for their interest and encourage you to apply for future opportunities that match your qualifications.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $25.00-$30.00 per hour

Application question(s):

Are you First Nations, Metis, and Inuit? Are you a Cheam Band Member? Why do you want to work with Cheam First Nation?
Work Location: In person