Job Description

Located within the traditional unceded territory of the syilx people, Westbank First Nation is a progressive and prosperous self-governing First Nation. The Okanagan Valley truly has it all, including a great climate, stunning scenery, world-class ski resorts, golf courses, wineries and beaches.

Westbank First Nation values diversity and we are committed to creating a healthy, strong and vibrant community through programs and services that promote physical, mental, emotional and spiritual well-being and healing. Come join our team and become part of an innovative and rewarding place to work.

Reporting to the Wellness Manager this position provides wellness support to individuals and families impacted by addictions. This includes support for individuals and families dealing with addictions, outreach services, referrals to treatment and/or aftercare for clients requesting this opportunity. The Addictions Worker will also provide education to individuals and groups in the community as well as make referrals to the Addiction Counsellor. The Addictions Worker will be familiar with other services and resources in the community and work closely to provide information and support when required. Under the direction of the Wellness Manager, the Addictions Worker will work collaboratively as part of the Wellness team in delivering services tailored to meet client needs. The Addictions Worker will strive to offer traditional healing practices alongside mainstream approaches – assisting community members with issues including those that affect their mental health. The Addictions Worker will provide services which may include home visits, a harm reduction approach and facilitating the inclusion of other services to meet client and family needs for all members of WFN.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE

• Certificate or Diploma in a related field, such as Addictions, Social Work, or Psychology required
• Specific training in the field of addictions including formal certification required
• Registration with an appropriate Professional Association required
• 3-5 years’ experience in the development and delivery of substance abuse/dependence programming
• Demonstrated understanding and experience working with and/or within First Nations community
• Experience in liaising with outside agencies and treatment centers
• Combination of education and experience may be considered

REQUIREMENTS

• Acceptable Criminal Record Check with the Vulnerable Sector
• Valid Class 5 Driver’s License with Class 4 preferred
• Reliable transportation
• Maintains a high level of confidentiality and uses discretion on all matters relating to the affairs of the Westbank First Nation

JOB DUTIES/RESPONSIBILTIES

• Participates as a member of the multidisciplinary Wellness Team
• Provides individual, family and group addictions support services, incorporating a harm reduction and/or abstinence-based approach
• Facilitates a weekly Wellbriety group in the evening
• Supports the facilitation of workshops in collaboration with other programs delivered through Community Services, or within the community of topics related to Addictions awareness and prevention
• Orders Naloxone kits
• Reports on drug usage
• Participates in the development and delivery of community-based events geared towards health promotion such as Wellness Fair and National Addictions Awareness Week
• Provides client assessments, develops case plans and goals, and maintains confidential client files using appropriate record keeping
• Develops addictions intervention strategies in consultation with Addictions Counsellor
• Assists in monitoring client’s case management and development of client’s case plans and goals with other members of the Wellness Team
• Assists, supports, and encourages clients in developing supportive roles and structures within their community to ensure safety upon returning home from a treatment program
• Gathers a collection of updated resource materials and provides substance use/dependence information to clients and community members. This includes liaising with outside agencies/bands to acquire additional treatment programs/workshops
• Liaises with Law Enforcement, RCMP, and other community-based supports as required
• Performs all duties and responsibilities in accordance with the Westbank First Nation policies, standards, and procedures and as directed by the Wellness Manager

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES

• Flexibility in scheduling, as some evening and weekend hours, are required
• Must be able to work alone and independently in the office and the community
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Excellent time management and organizational skills
• Proficient in Microsoft Office
• Excellent interpersonal and relationship building skills
• Ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary team, as well as independently
• Demonstrated understanding of harm reduction model and motivational interviewing skills
• Demonstrated understanding of concurrent disorders and treatment strategies
• Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of Aboriginal culture and the role that culture plays in the treatment of psychological concerns
• Knowledge and understanding trauma-informed practice

The Median Salary for this position is $71,405.82

Westbank First Nation offers a competitive and thoughtfully designed total rewards package that reflects our commitment to employee wellbeing and long-term success. In addition to a competitive base salary, employees are eligible to participate in the Municipal Pension Plan, a defined benefit pension plan with a 9.31% employer contribution following the eligibility period along with comprehensive extended health and dental coverage.

Our unique and generous flexible time-off provisions are designed to promote work–life–family balance and overall wellness. At WFN, we also prioritize continuous growth and leadership development by investing in meaningful education and professional development opportunities that support both individual advancement and organizational excellence.

To learn more about Westbank First Nation please visit our website at https://www.wfn.ca

All applications must be submitted through our Employment Opportunities page. Ensure you attach your cover letter and resume. Incomplete or late submissions will not be accepted.

This opportunity will close at midnight on Sunday, July 19th, 2026

While we recognize the value of diversity in the workplace and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, preference will be provided to qualified WFN Members & Indigenous applicants.