Role overview

Position SummaryReporting to the Sechelt Shelter Manager, the Sunshine Coast Overdose Prevention Site worker provides kind, non-judgmental access to harm reduction services and a safer drug consumption venue to reduce stigma, barriers to care and support client safety. The primary role of the Sunshine Coast Overdose Prevention Site worker is to work with and supervise the program’s peer team. The role will provide support, organization and collaboration and will promote safer drug use in the community. The Sunshine Coast Overdose Prevention Site worker will also compile user statistics, be responsible for peer payroll & attendance and will liaise with the OPS scheduler and Shelter management for efficient oversight of OPS day-to-day operations.
Job Competition # cas2026.234 Closing Date: Midnight, July 24, 2026Job: Peer Support Specialist, Sunshine Coast Overdose Prevention Site, CasualHourly Range: $33.49 – $35.31 (BCGEU, Grid 34) Hours: CasualWork Site: Sechelt Shelter, BC Start Date: As soon as possible
*A clear British Columbia Vulnerable Sector Criminal Record Check for working with vulnerable adults and/or children is a condition of employment with RainCity Housing. Applicants must be willing and able to receive a clearance under the Criminal Record Review Act.
*Peer designation is required to be qualified for this position.Program SummaryThe Sunshine Coast Overdose Prevention Site operates as a response to the opioid overdose emergency by providing a fixed site where peers observe drug consumption in a space that is integrated into the continuum of healthcare and harm reduction services at the Sechelt Shelter. The primary goal is to provide a welcoming space for people to use their previously obtained illicit substances, with sterile equipment, in a setting where peers and RCH staff can observe and intervene in overdoses as needed. Located adjacent to the Sechelt Shelter, the site provides a necessary service both for drug users at the Sechelt Shelter and for those residing in the surrounding area and serves as an access point for harm reduction materials for the community at large.QUALIFICATIONSMany forms of education and experience are valued, including volunteering, and lived experience of mental illness/addiction/homelessness. Minimum education and experience include:

A Diploma in community social services.
Two (2) years of recent, related work experience with an emphasis on mental health, addictions, homelessness and/or social services, including one year of service planning experience, and experience in a peer support training program.
Or an equivalent combination of education, training, volunteering and lived experience.
Current First Aid and CPR certification.
Minimum of two (2) years of relevant shared lived experience with the program’s client population (*see Program Summary and Diversity) and the willingness to be identified in these areas as the basis of their work.

Key Skills and Abilities – for supporting people receiving our services

Knowledge of and experience with overdose prevention and intervention and safer drug use techniques.
Knowledge of impacts of colonialism and colonization including the residential school, foster care and prison systems on Indigenous peoples and culture.
Knowledge of the principles of peer work and drug user self-determination.
Knowledge and applied analysis of impacts of criminalization and societal stigma on people who use drugs.
Knowledge of the principles of holistic recovery in mental illness and problematic substance use.
Knowledge of harm reduction principles and current best practices.
Basic knowledge of diagnoses, treatment, and support resources in the areas of mental illness, substance use, physical health, including HIV and Hepatitis C.
Knowledge of trauma informed practice.
Basic knowledge of psychopharmacology.
Basic knowledge of counseling skills, including motivational interviewing principles.
Demonstrated understanding of oppression and marginalization, specifically as related to people with experience of illicit drug use and dependency when accessing healthcare.
Knowledge of community resources.
Ability to identify and work to increase client strengths, including the use of hope inducing strategies and assisting the client in self-managing their illness and other aspects of their life.
Ability to commit to service partnerships and build relationships by aiding and support.
Ability to resolve crisis situations effectively and safely.
Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
Ability to work both independently and collaboratively as a member of a multidisciplinary team.
Ability to establish workload priorities, adjust to new or unexpected events, problem solves, and deals effectively with conflict situations.
Ability to provide consultation and leadership to other H2HSCS team members.
Physical ability to perform the duties of the position.
Ability to work with individuals from diverse backgrounds in a downtown environment and be flexible and creative in providing services.
Knowledge of primary health care and care provision by an interprofessional team.
Knowledge of principles of community integration for people living with mental illness and other barriers to health care.