About the Role: As the OPS Shift Lead, you will assume operational command of the Overdose Prevention Site floor, ensuring the delivery of high-quality, low-barrier harm reduction services. This role demands a high degree of situational awareness and clinical judgment. You will act as the primary point of contact during critical incidents, providing mentorship to peer staff and OPS workers while fostering a culturally safe, trauma-informed atmosphere for marginalized populations. The Shift Lead plays a pivotal role in bridging the gap between immediate crisis intervention and long-term health advocacy.

This is a minimum wage job for 16$ per hour. 

 

Key Responsibilities:

 

• Operational Leadership & Supervision:

  • Lead pre-shift briefings and post-incident debriefings to ensure team cohesion and mental well-being.

  • Provide real-time coaching and mentorship to Peer Support Workers, ensuring adherence to organizational values and privacy policies.

  • Manage shift logistics, including break rotations and maintaining appropriate staff-to-participant ratios.

• Critical Incident Response:

  • Lead the response to medical emergencies, specifically drug poisonings/overdoses, utilizing advanced protocols (IM/Intranasal Naloxone administration, airway management/oxygen therapy, and pulse oximetry).

  • Coordinate seamless transfers of care with Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and Police when required.

• Client Engagement & Support:

  • Apply de-escalation techniques and non-violent crisis intervention strategies to manage behavioral escalations in a high-stress environment.

  • Utilize motivational interviewing and supportive counseling techniques to facilitate referrals to withdrawal management (detox), opioid agonist therapy (OAT), and housing providers.

• Health & Safety Compliance:

  • Oversee the safe handling and disposal of biohazardous materials (sharps) and strictly enforce infection control standards.

  • Perform rigorous data collection and shift reporting (intake stats, overdose reversals, referrals) for Ministry reporting requirements.

  • Monitor the site for occupational hazards and ensure all harm reduction supplies are stocked and accessible.

 

Qualifications & Competencies:

• Education:

  • Diploma or Degree in Social Work, Mental Health & Addictions, or a related human services field.

• Certifications:

  • Standard First Aid with CPR Level C (HCP level preferred).

  • Non-Violent Crisis Intervention (NVCI) or similar de-escalation training.

  • ASIST (Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training) is a strong asset.

• Experience & Knowledge:

  • Minimum 2+ years of front-line experience working with individuals experiencing homelessness, substance use disorders, or concurrent disorders.

  • Lived Experience: Demonstrated lived experience with substance use or recovery is highly valued and considered an equivalent to formal education.

  • Deep understanding of the principles of Harm Reduction, Trauma-Informed Care, and Anti-Oppressive Practice.

  • Proficiency in administering Naloxone and familiarity with current street drug trends.