Thrive and Change Lives

Catholic Charities of Onondaga County is dedicated to caring for those in need while promoting human development, collaboration, and the elimination of poverty and injustice; helping people in need regardless of their religion, race, ethnicity, or nationality. We believe that all people have infinite value and are worthy of our respect and compassion. Above all, we are committed to creating hope and transforming lives.

We believe that quality service begins with a passionate, motivated and hardworking workforce; a positive and caring work environment, and recognition for the challenging work our employees perform in service to others. For these reasons and many more Catholic Charities of Onondaga County is a great place to work!

Flexible Work Schedules

Remitted Tuition

Professional Development

Competitive Pay and Work Life Benefits

Professional Supervision and Coaching

Recognition and Appreciation Programs

Opportunities for Growth and Promotion

The Opioid Harm Reduction Specialists will help to provide support and resources to individuals experiencing homelessness and substance use challenges. This role focuses on harm reduction strategies, peer support, and advocacy to improve the well-being and safety of shelter residents. The Opioid Harm Reduction Specialists will provide peer-based support and harm reduction education to individuals struggling with opioid use. Distribute and train residents on the use of naloxone (Narcan) to prevent overdose deaths. They will Assist clients in accessing medical care, substance use treatment, and other social services. They will build trusting relationships with residents through active listening, empathy, and lived experience. The Opioid Harm Reduction Specialists will facilitate harm reduction activities and one-on-one discussions tailored to residents' needs.  Collaborate with shelter staff, healthcare providers, and community organizations to enhance support services. Maintain accurate records of interactions, referrals, and harm reduction interventions

This is a Full Time Position at 35 Hours a Week. Pay For This Position is $21.00 Per Hour

Education and/or Experience Required at Entry:

• Preferred Associated Degree in Human Services or High School diploma or GED with 2 years of relevant experience
•  Lived experience with substance use and 2 years of sustained recovery is required.
•  CRPA (Certified Recovery Peer Advocate) and/or NYCPS (New York Certified Peer Specialist) certification required.
•  Knowledge of harm reduction principles, opioid use disorder, and available resources.
•  Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to connect with diverse populations.
•  Ability to work independently while collaborating with a multidisciplinary team.
•  Experience working with individuals experiencing homelessness is a plus. 

Licenses/Certificate/Clearances:

• Valid NYS Driver’s License Registered 
• Insured and Registered Vehicle
• Successful completion of OMH clearance.

Skills and Abilities:

• Knowledge of peer support and strength-based peer practices.
• Understanding of natural supports.
• Proficiency in computer systems and operations, including Microsoft Outlook, MS Word, and MS Excel.
• Customer engagement skills.
• Strong oral and written communication skills, including presentation skills.
• Familiarity with mental health services and community resources.
• Ability to operate office equipment such as fax, copier, scanner, printer, and telephone.  

Working conditions and Environmental/Physical Demands:

• Mobility sufficient to drive to and participate in meetings at client’s homes and/or community facilities which may not meet Federal accessibility standards for disabled individuals, Manual dexterity sufficient to work with children/adults in a challenging and active environment.

Catholic Charities is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to building on our foundation of a diverse workforce; and fostering an inclusive environment that encourages the recruitment and engagement of a workforce that fully represents the community we serve. We do not discriminate against any employee or applicant on the basis of race (including traits historically associated with race), color, creed, sex/gender (including pregnancy), age, disability, religion, national origin, citizenship, military/veteran status, marital status, familial status, prior arrest/conviction record, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, status of being transgender, ancestry, domestic violence victim status, predisposing genetic characteristics or carrier status, reproductive health decision making, or any other basis prohibited by law.