Outreach Worker

Lookout Society•Duncan, OK

About The Position

The Outreach Worker reports to the Designated Manager and works in accordance with the mission and philosophy of Lookout Housing and Health Society, including its Code of Ethics. The role provides support, direction, assistance, and advocacy to adults facing challenges such as unstable housing, addictions, mental health concerns, and HIV. The Outreach Worker also supports and advocates for treatment and follow-up services for people who do not adequately access the services they need. The position serves adults with low or no income who have limited housing or support options. It helps clients meet basic needs, develop skills, and establish and maintain stable living situations as independently as possible. The role includes crisis intervention, connecting clients with community services, and at times administering finances and medications or arranging coverage. This casual position is based at the Cowichan Valley Wellness and Recovery Centre. Shifts are 7.5 hours and may be days, afternoons/evenings, or overnight, any day of the week, including weekends and holidays. Consecutive days of rest are provided, and schedules may change with two weeks’ notice. The probationary/qualifying period is 488 hours, with reviews at the midpoint and end. Salary is $33.49–$35.31, depending on seniority under the Collective Agreement. Employees must remain alert throughout shifts; sleeping while on duty is not permitted. The work can be complex and may involve disagreeable factors.

Requirements

A related diploma or certificate; or Grade 12 education plus at least two years of recent related experience; or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
Current Occupational First Aid Level 1 Certificate.
Class 5 Driver’s Licence and Driver’s Abstract.
Familiarity with community resources, particularly addiction, mental health, welfare, and harm reduction services.
Ability to work independently or in a team setting.
Strong ability to manage stress and organize workload.
Excellent communication, writing, documentation, and organizational skills.
Ability to understand and maintain client/worker boundaries.
Ability to work with disadvantaged and challenging adults in a diverse environment.
Strong physical and mental ability to perform work tasks and operate job-related equipment.
At least two years of sobriety if the applicant has had concerns related to alcohol and/or drug use.
Criminal Record Clearance – Vulnerable Sector.
Successful completion of respirator fit testing; employees must be clean-shaven where the respirator seals against the face.
Ability to work shifts that may include days, afternoons/evenings, overnight hours, weekdays, weekends, and holidays.

Nice To Haves

A minimum of one year of case management experience is preferred.
Crisis Intervention Skills Training is an asset.

Responsibilities

Provide assistance, support, and skills training to adults to help them establish and maintain stable living situations as independently as possible.
Help secure and maintain stable, independent living situations where possible.
Discuss, isolate, and assess problems, and develop flexible plans of action.
Ensure clients’ basic needs are met by connecting them with needed services through community networks.
Provide crisis intervention as necessary.
Administer clients’ finances and medications or arrange for coverage.
Complete required records and maintain statistical data.
Assist in training and upgrading placement programs for staff, volunteers, and students.
Drive a company vehicle when required.
Comply with and contribute to all aspects of the health and safety program.
Remain alert and attentive during working hours; sleeping during shifts is not permitted.