NLCC Harm Reduction Center Specialist (June 2026)

Specific Responsibilities

• Operate and actively participate within the Harm Reduction model.
• Engage in conversations with people about their drug use and their individual needs.
• Conduct low barrier intakes.
• Available to explore different treatment options with participants, with a focus on expanding awareness of and connection to medication-based treatment programs.
• Facilitate timely referrals and linkages to community providers, connecting participants to the larger community of care.
• Educate and assist community members regarding substance use disorder as well as emerging drugs in the community.
• Provide overdose response education including the use of Naloxone.
• Work in collaboration with clinical staff to ensure access to care and treatment.
• Participate in ongoing training and education.
• Absorb and facilitate the Syringe Services Program (SSP), as needed.
• Other duties as required or requested.

Requirements

• Lived experience with drug use/substance use disorder.
• Knowledge, acceptance, and adherence to Harm Reduction and application of Harm Reduction principles and strategies.
• Familiarity and experience with local support services and resources.
• Ability to develop trust, rapport, and respect with participants, project staff, and community partners.
• Cross-cultural skills and experience with diverse populations.
• Strong communication and time management skills.
• Demonstrated skill in active listening and conflict management, including de-escalation.
• Proven ability to maintain appropriate boundaries.
• Ability to honor confidentiality requirements during both employment and post-employment periods.
• Skillful in multi-tasking, working in a high-volume environment, and eager to cross-train for other assignments/programs.
• Basic computer skills.
• Bi-lingual ability preferred.

Physical Requirements

• Frequent movement throughout the building to interact with participants and staff as well as monitor HRC spaces.
• Frequent lifting, carrying, and moving inventory weighing up to 20 pounds between floors.
• Occasional bending, stooping, kneeling and/or crouching for maintenance of the HRC spaces.
• Occasional outdoor exposure to conduct outreach and participate in community events.