Harm Reduction Outreach Worker

Position Description

The Harm Reduction Outreach worker will assist and support with the provision of harm reduction services. They will deliver prevention and screening services to populations at risk for HIV, STDs, and Hepatitis C. The position involves distributing harm reduction supplies, providing education, and supporting clients.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

• Distribute harm reduction supplies such as safer injection and inhalation materials, naloxone kits, condoms, and lubricants
• Encourage safer use practices and proper disposal of drug use equipment
• Track, record, and manage inventory of harm reduction and program supplies
• Provide HIV, STI, and Hepatitis C prevention education, risk assessments, and screening support
• Support linkage to healthcare, substance use treatment, harm reduction services, overdose prevention, and community resources
• Build trusting relationships with unhoused and substance-using individuals in a respectful, non-judgmental manner
• Maintain client confidentiality and uphold strong professional boundaries at all times
• Participate in meetings, trainings, and conferences to stay current on harm reduction practices, infectious disease prevention, and related topics
• Support Ritter Center’s mission by performing other related duties as assigned

Qualifications & Skills

• Strong alignment with a harm reduction approach to service delivery
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to work from a sex-positive, trauma-informed, anti-discrimination, and anti-oppressive framework
• Ability to actively listen, accept feedback, and engage with sensitivity and respect
• Ability to work independently while also functioning effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team
• Commitment to client confidentiality and ethical practice

Knowledge & Experience

• Working knowledge of addiction and harm reduction principles
• Knowledge of HIV, Hepatitis C, STIs, bloodborne pathogens, and infectious diseases
• Experience working in harm reduction, outreach, or another relevant community-based frontline program preferred
• Lived experience with drug use, homelessness, or street involvement is strongly valued
• Bilingual or multilingual skills are a plus

Education

• A high school diploma or equivalent is required

Employment Requirements

• Ability to meet OSHA and Ritter Center employment requirements, including a negative TB test prior to start date
• Covid-19 vaccination required unless an approved exemption applies, in accordance with state public health orders

Employment Practices

Ritter Center is an Equal Opportunity institution and does not discriminate against any person in employment or in admission, treatment, or participation in its programs and benefits on the basis of race, religion, color, gender, age, national origin, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran’s status, marital status, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, or any other status protected by applicable law.