Addiction Community Service Worker jobs

About Us

We are a community-based social services organization committed to supporting at-risk youth in building stable, independent, and fulfilling lives. Our Supportive Living Program (SLP) provides wraparound care to young people facing housing instability, mental health challenges, substance use concerns, and complex social needs. We believe in a harm-reduction, trauma-informed approach — meeting youth where they are, and walking alongside them as they work toward their goals.

If you are passionate about making a tangible difference in the lives of young people, thrive in a collaborative team environment, and bring genuine warmth and resilience to your work, we’d love to hear from you.

What We Offer

• Competitive wage of $25.00–$30.00/hour, commensurate with experience
• Extended health and dental benefits
• Above-standard paid vacation
• Pension/RRSP matching program
• A supportive, mission-driven team culture
• Opportunities for professional development and training

About the Role

The Youth Outreach Support Worker plays a central role in the day-to-day support and development of at-risk youth in our Supportive Living Program. Working one-on-one and in groups, you will help young people identify their needs, set goals, and build the practical and emotional skills required to live independently and thrive in their communities. You will be a consistent, trusted presence for youth navigating complex circumstances — connecting them to services, advocating on their behalf, and celebrating their progress.

Key Responsibilities

Direct Client Support

• Build genuine, trusting relationships with at-risk youth, including those with mental health concerns, substance use issues, complex health needs, and challenging behaviours
• Conduct needs assessments and collaborate with youth to develop individualized goal plans; monitor and adapt plans as needs evolve
• Provide emotional and practical support including access to food, hygiene supplies, harm reduction materials, housing supports, and social opportunities
• Deliver crisis intervention and stress management support as needed
• Provide one-on-one and group-based life skills workshops
• Support youth through transitions when exiting the program

Advocacy & Community Collaboration

• Advocate for youth to address and overcome individual barriers to independence
• Make referrals to appropriate programs and agencies; liaise with MCFD regarding Youth Agreements and day-to-day services
• Network with external partners in areas including mental health, counselling, probation, housing, addictions, and academic supports

Team & Administration

• Work collaboratively with night staff and across the multidisciplinary team, including support to volunteers and students
• Complete intake documentation, assessments, and evaluation tools accurately and on time
• Collect and report program statistics and contribute to ongoing reporting requirements
• Assist with day-to-day operational needs in the youth housing building

Qualifications

Required

• Post-secondary education in Child and Youth Care, Social Work, Psychology, Community Support Work, or a closely related field
• Minimum 1–2 years of direct experience working with at-risk youth, or in outreach, supportive housing, or a similar social services setting
• Demonstrated knowledge of barriers faced by youth, including systemic, social, and health-related factors
• Experience applying trauma-informed and harm-reduction frameworks in practice
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, including spreadsheet and database software
• Ability to write clear, concise, and accurate reports and case notes
• Valid BC driver’s licence
• Successful completion of Criminal Record Checks (required prior to start)

Assets

• Cultural competency and experience working with youth from diverse backgrounds, including Indigenous youth
• Group facilitation experience
• First Aid / Mental Health First Aid certification

Who You Are

• Warm, approachable, and non-judgmental — able to build rapport with youth while maintaining appropriate professional boundaries
• Calm and confident in high-pressure or crisis situations; skilled at de-escalation and conflict resolution
• A strong communicator — both in writing and in person — with excellent listening skills
• Organized and detail-oriented, with strong time management and the ability to juggle competing priorities
• Self-motivated and capable of working independently, while being an enthusiastic, collaborative team member
• Flexible and adaptable — able to absorb new information quickly and respond to changing needs
• Deeply respectful of diversity in culture, background, identity, and lived experience
• Committed to maintaining strict confidentiality and professional discretion

Schedule

This is a permanent full-time position, Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (37.5 hours per week). Occasional after-hours availability may be required on a rare basis; advance notice will be provided whenever possible.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $25.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Casual dress
• Dental care
• Employee assistance program
• Extended health care
• Mileage reimbursement
• RRSP match
• Vision care

Work Location: In person