The Mountain Center Harm Reduction Program is committed to reducing stigma and empowering clients through services that reduce the harms associated with substance use and other high-risk activities among individuals and communities in Northern New Mexico.
We provide a holistic approach to Harm Reduction Services in Rio Arriba County by means of syringe exchange, overdose prevention and response education, Naloxone distribution, and improving access to medical, behavioral, treatment and social services.
The position of Outreach Worker is responsible for assisting the Harm Reduction Program Manager in the implementation of the Harm Reduction Needle Exchange program and deliverables. The position is full time five days a week exempt position. Staff in this position start at 8 am at our office in Española and finish around 4:30.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Follow DOH and TMC protocols for Syringe Exchange.
Follow TMC / DOH safety guidelines as trained for handling biohazard waste.
Is prepared to respond appropriately to emergency situations that may be encountered in the field in accordance with training received including overdoses.
Maintain accurate and legible paperwork for all syringe exchange / overdose prevention activities.
Professionally represent the TMC Harm Reduction Program to clients, community members, interns, volunteers and staff.
Maintain an emotional and physically safe working environment.
Wear appropriate safety clothes.
Perform timely and effective delivery of services with clients.
Effectively and professionally manages relationships with all clients/participants and staff.
Assists in vehicle cleanliness, organization and daily safety inspection at the beginning, during and after shifts.
Responsible for communicating to supervisor and team all safety concerns in a timely manner.
Helps with getting supplies ready for shift.
Arrives on time.
Attend Staff Meetings and other meetings as assigned.
Attend necessary trainings as approved by the HR Supervisor.
Responsible for meeting deadlines from supervisor and organization.
Read and follow all TMC policies and procedures.
All duties as assigned by the supervisor.
Qualifications
Minimum:
High school degree or equivalent
Experience directly related to the duties outlined above
Knowledge of the following:
HCV/HIV/pathogens and infectious disease
Addiction (Substance use and misuse)
CPR/First Aid (Certification preferred)
Harm Reduction Models and Best Practices
Possesses the mental resolve to deal with complex, highly emotional and/or stressful situations
Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to effectively listen and offer solutions without passing judgment
Ability to remain diplomatic when the political climate interferes with program goals and objectives
Ability to be client and mission centered
Ability to communicate in English, both verbally and in writing
Ability to maintain highly confidential information in a professional manner (in accordance with federal HIPAA and 42CFR part 2 regulations)
Ability to work with others in a team and collaboration efforts
Proficient in Microsoft Office including Word, Outlook, Access and Excel
Working knowledge of standard office equipment (personal computer/laptop, phone with voicemail, fax, copier, etc.)
Ability to read and comprehend complex documents; to respond effectively to the most sensitive inquiries or complaints; to prepare correspondence, presentations and articles as may be necessary; and to communicate effectively with staff and clients/participants
Ability to establish and maintain effective relationships within the community. Demonstrated capacity to effectively market the Mountain Center’s programs while strategically developing community networks to establish and/or maintain continued support for TMC
Clear driving record and valid driver’s license with solid driving skills due to extensive travel; willing and able to use TMC vehicle for outreach and local travel on Center business; with valid driver’s license and proof of insurance
Familiarity with the social, cultural and economic make-up of New Mexico or service area and ability and willingness to work with diverse populations
Preferred:
Bilingual, English and Spanish
Bachelor's degree or higher in a related field
Equal Employment Opportunity: The Mountain Center provides equal employment opportunities to all qualified individual without regard to race, creed, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, or non-disqualifying physical or mental handicap or disability.
Americans with Disabilities Specifications: The position is primarily in an outdoor setting working out of a motor vehicle, requiring long periods of standing and walking in and out of a vehicle. This position also requires some sitting at a desk in front of a computer. Presentation and community outreach tasks may require the employee to sit or stand for long periods of time. Extensive travel, typically by automobile; must be comfortable driving on unpaved/uneven roads and in inclement weather, during sunrise/sunset and in the dark. Employee must have the ability to clearly communicate in person and on the telephone in the decibel range of normal conversation levels. Employee must be able to hold a pen, type and grasp documents. The position requires the ability to safely lift 50 pounds unassisted.
Work Environment: Office environment and motor vehicle for out in the field for mobile HR services, requires physical acumen- lifting up to 50 lbs, walking for 4 hours a day, and being outside most of the day. Handling of biohazard materials.
Equipment Used: Personal computer and standard office equipment (phone with voicemail, fax, copier, scanner ten-key calculator).
Job Responsibilities Notes: The above statements reflect the general duties, responsibilities and competencies considered necessary to perform the essential duties & responsibilities of the job and should not be considered as a detailed description of all the work requirements of the position. The Mountain Center may change the specific job duties with or without prior notice based on the needs of the organization.
Our work centers around LGBTQ+ individuals, people of color, individuals in recovery, people with various diagnoses and abilities, and other marginalized communities. Therefore, we strongly encourage people with these identities and from these and other marginalized communities to apply.
The position provides 40 hours of work per week/weekends; the range is $17 to $20
an hour dependent on experience and qualifications. Paid Time Off and health insurance benefits, and retirement benefits offered after one year of employment. The Mountain Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer.