Drug Checking Technician (Harm Reduction)

Location: hirify.global Okanagan Campus, Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada; work includes campus and community sites.

Compensation: $27.00–$30.96 CAD per hour

Company

hirify.global is a university focused on research, innovation, learning, and inclusive employment.

What you will do

• Provide confidential drug checking using FTIR and other testing materials according to provincial health authority protocols.
• Interpret and communicate drug-checking results and provide guidance on safe use, risk reduction, and referrals to services.
• Maintain testing equipment and materials, secure substance samples, and follow safe handling and disposal procedures.
• Collect, organize, and securely manage confidential project data, including data entry and database maintenance.
• Communicate with research team members and community partners, participate in meetings, and assist with project reports.
• Conduct literature searches and synthesize research related to substance use and harm reduction.

Requirements

• Current BCCSU drug-checking certification is required.
• Post-secondary degree with additional related training and at least two years of related experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Knowledge of FTIR testing protocols, drug-checking result interpretation, substance use, and harm reduction evidence.
• Ability to follow strict protocols for drug checking, data collection, confidentiality, and substance handling.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, sensitivity to people who use substances, and ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Proficiency in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and internet tools.

Nice to have

• Experience counselling or providing information related to substance use and harm reduction.
• Experience collecting and managing confidential data.
• Experience writing manuscripts and reports.

Culture & Benefits

• Part-time staff position covered by a union agreement.
• Collaborative work with a harm reduction project team, research personnel, and community partners.
• Commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion, and respect for diverse perspectives.
• Fixed-term appointment through April 30, 2027.
• COVID-19 safety protocols apply on campus and at community sites.