Peer Advocate

Position Summary
Northern Health values diversity within the workplace and our commitment of reaching a representative workforce. For this position, we also want to highlight First Nation, Inuit, Métis or Indigenous Ancestry is regarded as directly relevant to the skills and knowledge for this position. All candidates will be considered; however, preference will be given to Indigenous applicants. For this initiative candidates from this group who wish to qualify for preferential consideration are encouraged to self-identify.

Are you a Peer Advocate looking to highlight your knowledge, skills, and abilities in a new and dynamic environment? We currently have an opportunity for you to bring your excellent work ethic to our Specialized Community Services department.

In accordance with established vision and values of the organization the Peer Advocate is responsible for facilitating and promoting the meaningful engagement of people with lived experience of substance use (referred to as "peers") in harm reduction policy and program development, implementation, monitoring and evaluation within Northern Health (NH) and partner organizations.

Shift Rotation/Hours of work: Rotating, Days - 08:18 to 19:30

Qualfications
• Past or current recipient of mental health and/or substance use services.
• Experience in social services, supported housing/addictions/Public Health.
• Grade 12. Open to continuing education in related field.
• Two (2) years' recent, related experience working/volunteering with and/or mentoring peers in urban and/or rural, isolated, and remote communities (including Indigenous communities).
• Experience working with peers in community and providing health promotion and harm reduction activities in the areas of substance use, or an equivalent combined education, training, and experience.
• Experience working with BC First Nations organizations and communities
• May require valid BC Driver's License as required by program.

Skills and Abilities:
• Knowledge of diverse Indigenous communities' social, historical, jurisdictional, and cultural context, and Indigenous views on approaches to health and wellness.
• Knowledge of, and ability to apply, an understanding of First Nations cultural principles and protocols and ability to manage conflict in a respectful and culturally relevant and safe manner.
• Knowledge of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's Calls to Action into their work
• Knowledge of harm reduction principles and practices.
• Knowledge of peer-driven initiatives and interventions.
• Demonstrated excellent interpersonal and communications skills, both verbally and in writing.
• Demonstrated facilitation, leadership, public speaking, circle sharing, and conflict resolution skills.
• Ability to reflect on the way their lived experiences influence their work.
• Ability to maintain non-violent communication in work-related environments and correspondence
• Ability to work independently and in cooperation with others.
• Ability to practice humility
• Ability to manage time effectively based on workload.
• Ability to establish and maintain relationships with people and communities at large.
• Ability to provide guidance and work direction.
• Ability to solve problem.
• Ability to prepare presentations, promotional materials, and business correspondence.
• Ability to be creative and flexible, to work under the pressure of interruptions and change.
• Ability to present information based on audience.

Where you will be working:
Community:
Information about living, working, and thriving in the area is available through Smithers

More about Northern Health
Northern Health covers nearly 600,000 square kilometers, delivering health services to more than two dozen communities and 55 First Nations communities across the region. We provide both hospital and community-based care to a population of approximately 300,000 people. With a team of over 12,000 staff and physicians, we are committed to offering high quality, person centered care in collaboration with communities and partner organizations throughout Northern BC.

What Northern Health Has to Offer You!
Joining Northern Health means becoming part of a supportive team that values your growth and well-being. Here's what we provide:
• Comprehensive benefits including extended health, dental, and a municipal pension plan for part-time and full-time employees. Casual employees have option of paying for benefits.
• Three weeks of vacation after one year of continuous service.
• Financial support for moving expenses for eligible positions.
• Employee referral program with attractive incentives.
• Employer-paid training and leadership development opportunities.
• Access to spectacular outdoor activities and enjoy the shortest commutes in BC.
• Loan Forgiveness Programs offered through Federal and Provincial Government for eligible professions.

Important Application Information
Please ensure you upload the following documents as part of your application:
• Registration number (if you belong to a regulated profession).
• Supporting documents for education and qualifications, such as:
• Program certificates or diplomas.
• High school, college, or university transcripts.
• Cover letter and resume (recommended).

International Applicants
Before applying, please review the steps outlined on our Northern Health Careers page: Information for international applicants