Here is a more advanced and realistic version of the job description. This version uses stronger industry terminology (e.g., "drug poisoning," "low-barrier," "biohazardous," "vicarious trauma") to reflect the actual complexity and intensity of an Overdose Prevention Site (OPS) environment.

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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 protected, 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.

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.

Additional Information about the job:

Shift Days :Monday,Tuesday,Wednesday,Thursday,Friday,Saturday,Sunday
Schedule: Day,Evening Shift

📌 Overdose Prevention Site (OPS) Shift Lead (Canada)
🏢 CMHA Champlain East (Canadian Mental Health Association – Champlain East Branch)
📍 Canada