Project Reach Specialist

HEALTH FEDERATION OF PHILADELPHIA•Philadelphia, PA

58d•$25 - $25

About The Position

The Philadelphia Department of Public Health (PDPH)’s Substance Use Prevention and Harm Reduction Division is hiring a Project Reach Specialist to support the efforts to maintain clean, safe and healthy spaces while advancing harm reduction and public health goals. This position combines environmental cleanup with compassionate outreach to individuals who use drugs and/or are unhoused, promoting dignity, safety and wellness across communities in Philadelphia most impacted by substance use and environmental hazards.

Requirements

HS Diploma or general education degree (GED); or combination of education and 1 + year related work experience.
OR associate’s degree with two + years’ related work experience
Knowledge of/and personal experience with substances and substance use, as well as harm reduction.
Experience and/or knowledge of the principles, practices, and techniques of outreach, education, and community-based networking.
Sensitivity to and experience working with ethnically, economically, culturally, and sexually diverse individuals, communities, agencies and organizations.
Comfortable working with vulnerable populations.
Comfortable working outdoors in inclement weather.
Enthusiasm for fieldwork, providing direct service to neighborhood residents.
Comfort using the following equipment: Push Broom, Rake, Trash Cans, Power Washer, Cleaning/Disinfectant Supplies, Leaf Blower, Tongs, Sharp Containers, Latex Gloves, Work Gloves, Face Mask.
Ability to analyze and think critically to apply reasonable judgment and problem-solving skills.
Ability to work as part of a team, to prioritize and handle multiple tasks, and work independently in a high-pressure environment.
Ability to establish and maintain effective relationships with people contacted in the course of work

Responsibilities

Conduct daily and scheduled syringe pickups, environmental cleanups, and waste disposal in assigned areas throughout Philadelphia.
Provide direct outreach and engagement to individuals who use substances, offering harm reduction supplies such as Narcan, wound care materials and seasonal supplies.
Document all cleanup and outreach activities accurately using RedCAP or other approved data systems.
Assist with restocking, assembling and organizing harm reduction and outreach supplies.
Collaborate with Harm Reduction, Community Engagement and other SUPHR staff to support overdose prevention efforts.
Maintain professionalism and compassion when engaging community members experiencing homelessness or substance use.
Support public health emergency response, including outreach and harm reduction activities during cold- and heat-related weather emergencies.
A valid driver's license is required. This position requires regular operations of a departmental vehicle to perform job related duties.
Other duties as assigned