Job Description

Union:

Non-Union

Base Location:

Northreach Society Administration Office, Grande Prairie

Employment Type:

Full-Time (Monday - Friday, 8:30am - 4:30pm)

Salary:

Commensurate with experience

Shifts:

Varies based on workload, travel and identified needs.

Vehicle Requirement:

Yes

Application Deadline:

Friday, September 19, 2025

About Northreach Society

Northreach Society is a non-profit organization based in Grande Prairie, Alberta, dedicated to improving health and well-being across Northern Alberta. Our mission is to address the social determinants of health through education, harm reduction, and collaborative community efforts. We provide a wide range of services, including overdose prevention, STBBI testing and support, harm reduction supply distribution, and health promotion programs. Guided by a vision of a safe and inclusive world free from discrimination, Northreach works to empower individuals and strengthen communities through innovation, compassion, and respect.

Position Overview

The Naloxone Education Nurse is a key member of the Health Care Team at Northreach Society, contributing to the full continuum of care for individuals experiencing homelessness, at risk of overdose or requiring additional health support. Guided by a harm reduction philosophy, this role focuses on distributing naloxone kits, providing overdose prevention education, and supporting individuals at risk. The position emphasizes injury prevention, health and wellness promotion, and harm reduction strategies related to substance use.

This role involves traveling to various sites across the City of Grande Prairie, with opportunities to engage in outreach and education in communities throughout Alberta's North Zone.

Key Responsibilities Include:

Conduct nursing assessments, provide treatments, case management, referrals, and client education. Engage clients and community members using a non-judgmental, harm reduction approach. Deliver education on overdose prevention, opioid poisoning response, and Naloxone administration, including kit distribution to diverse populations such as rural, remote, Indigenous communities, and Metis Settlements as requested. Distribute Naloxone kits to individuals seeking them and support at-risk clients in accessing kits and wrap-around services. Collaborate with community members and partners to identify educational opportunities and provide accurate, evidence-based resources. Participate in community engagement activities, awareness events, planning sessions, and committee work as appropriate. Administer evaluation surveys following education sessions to gather feedback and improve programming. Promote substance use prevention, harm reduction, treatment options, and recovery supports through education and referrals. Provide STBBI-related services and education. Deliver trauma-informed, client-centered care in all interactions. Offer general referrals and facilitate warm handoffs whenever possible. Provide basic wound care when required. Ensure confidentiality and maintain accurate documentation of client interactions and interventions. Manage Naloxone inventory, track distribution, and complete required reports in a timely manner. Stay current with best practices through ongoing research and professional development relevant to harm reduction and organizational goals. Support other Northreach staff as needed to achieve program objectives.

Required Qualifications:

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in good standing with The College of Licensed Practical Nurses of Alberta (CLPNA). Current Basic Cardiac Life Support - Health Care Provider (BCLS-HCP)

Additional Requirements:

Clear Vulnerable Sector Check. Valid driver's license and reliable transportation.

Additional Qualifications:

Proven experience in teaching and facilitating both small and large groups. Experience working with vulnerable populations, including individuals experiencing homelessness, substance use, mental health challenges, sex work, 2SLGBTQ+ communities, and Indigenous peoples. Background in harm reduction, addictions, or community health (asset). Strong understanding and advocacy for safer sex and safer drug-use practices. Knowledge of STBBI prevention and support services preferred. Familiarity with HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, Syphilis, and other STBBIs. Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively, deliver engaging education sessions, and respond confidently in crisis situations.

Core Competencies:

Adaptability and flexibility in dynamic environments. Cultural sensitivity and ability to work with diverse populations. Strong organizational skills and accountability. Effective problem-solving and critical thinking. Professionalism and ethical practice. Resourcefulness and ability to work independently. Teamwork and collaboration within multidisciplinary teams.

Working conditions

Employment with Northreach Society requires physical mobility and adaptability. The successful candidate must be able to lift and carry objects, remain on their feet or walk for extended periods, and spend significant time performing administrative and desk-based tasks. Due to the realities of living and working in Northern Alberta, the candidate must also be capable of safely operating a vehicle in a variety of weather and road conditions.

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

Dental care Employee assistance program Extended health care Flexible schedule Life insurance Paid time off
Ability to commute/relocate:

Grande Prairie, AB: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)
Experience:

educating: 1 year (preferred) Nursing: 1 year (preferred)
Work Location: In person