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Addiction Support Worker Jobs in Alberta (NOW HIRING)

The Follow-Up Support Worker (FSW) provides intensive case management services to individuals who ... Connect clients to community resources and services, including mental health, addictions, primary ...

The Follow-Up Support Worker (FSW) provides intensive case management services to individuals who ... Connect clients to community resources and services, including mental health, addictions, primary ...

The Program Support Worker plays a vital role in supporting women experiencing poverty, addictions, violence, mental health challenges and homelessness as they transition into safe and stable housing.

Peer Support Worker

Red Deer, AB · On-site

CA$20 - CA$25/hr

About Ballad Group Ballad is seeking an Independent Contractor Peer Support Worker with lived ... addictions, unemployment, or justice involvement. * Peer Support training or certification is ...

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Addiction Support Worker information

See Alberta salary details

$8

$21

$50

How much do addiction support worker jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for addiction support worker in Alberta is $21.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.22 and $20.67 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an addiction support worker do?

An Addiction Support Worker assists individuals struggling with substance abuse or addiction by providing emotional support, guidance, and practical help. They work closely with clients to develop coping strategies, access treatment programs, and connect with community resources. Their duties may include conducting assessments, facilitating group sessions, supporting clients through recovery plans, and advocating for their needs. Addiction Support Workers often collaborate with healthcare professionals, social workers, and families to promote recovery and well-being.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an addiction support worker, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Addiction Support Worker, you need a background in counseling, social work, or psychology, often supported by a relevant diploma, degree, or certification in addiction studies. Familiarity with case management systems, harm reduction models, and crisis intervention tools is typically required. Strong communication, empathy, and resilience are vital soft skills for building trust and supporting individuals through challenging situations. These skills and qualities are crucial for effectively guiding clients toward recovery, ensuring safety, and fostering positive outcomes.

What are some common challenges addiction support workers face when supporting clients in recovery, and how can they effectively address them?

Addiction Support Workers often encounter challenges such as client relapse, resistance to treatment, and complex co-occurring mental health issues. Building trust and maintaining open, non-judgmental communication are vital for helping clients feel supported and understood. Effective workers collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams—including counselors, healthcare professionals, and social workers—to develop individualized care plans and ensure clients have access to comprehensive support. Ongoing professional development and self-care are also important for managing the emotional demands of the role.

What is the difference between Addiction Support Worker vs Counsellor?

AspectAddiction Support WorkerCounsellor
Required CredentialsCertifications in addiction support, relevant trainingDegree in counselling, psychology, or social work
Work EnvironmentRehabilitation centers, community clinics, outreach programsPrivate practice, clinics, hospitals, schools
Employer & IndustryHealth and social services, addiction treatment centersHealthcare, mental health services, educational institutions
Common Search & ComparisonFocus on addiction recovery supportFocus on mental health and emotional well-being

While both roles support individuals with mental health challenges, Addiction Support Workers primarily assist those recovering from addiction through practical support and guidance. Counsellors provide therapeutic interventions for a broader range of mental health issues. The roles often overlap but differ mainly in their focus and required qualifications.

What cities in Alberta are hiring for Addiction Support Worker jobs?

Cities in Alberta with the most Addiction Support Worker job openings:

Infographic showing various Addiction Support Worker job openings in Alberta as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,877 per year, or $21.6 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

Be the Spark that ignites the potential in people! At our YMCA, we believe in the power of people. Every day, our dedicated employees and volunteers bring energy, positivity, and inclusivity to everything they do. They are the spark that ignites potential in others—helping individuals grow, thrive, and truly belong.

When people feel connected and supported, communities become stronger, more resilient, and full of life. That’s the impact of people-powered change. Together, we create welcoming spaces where everyone is valued, differences are celebrated, and possibilities are endless. Be the spark. Shine bright. Help others shine too.

About the Role:

The Follow-Up Support Worker (FSW) provides intensive case management services to individuals who have recently transitioned into housing through the Housing First program. This role focuses on maintaining housing stability, improving the overall quality of life, and supporting participants in achieving their personal goals. The FSW is responsible for the effective planning, implementation, and evaluation of program services.  The FSW carries out their duties in a professional manner and in accordance with all YMCA policies and procedures, standards of practice, health and safety standards, child protection standards, and contractual, legal, and regulatory requirements.

Responsibilities:

  • Provide client-centered, trauma-informed follow-up support to individuals housed through the Housing First program.
  • Conduct regular home visits and wellness checks to monitor housing stability and support client success.
  • Develop and implement Individual Action Plans in collaboration with each participant on caseload and determine individualized direction that meet participants' needs.
  • Performs case management as per guidelines and funder mandates.  
  • Transport clients to appointments.  Work with participants to learn City transit system.
  • Advocate with landlords, service providers and other systems to ensure access and equity. 
  • Provide service coordination and navigation. Connect clients to community resources and services, including mental health, addictions, primary care, employment, and income supports.
  • Work within defined program budgets.  
  • Maintain accurate participant files in accordance with funder and YMCA guidelines.

Qualifications:

  • Post secondary degree/diploma in Social Work, Human Services, or related field.  
  • Intermediate (Standard) First Aid, CPR-C.
  • Non-Violent Crisis Intervention and Suicide Intervention Certification preferred.
  • Able to obtain a Police Information Check with Vulnerable sector.
  • Minimum 2 years of experience working with individuals experiencing homelessness, mental health issues, addictions, or other barriers to housing.
  • Strong working knowledge of issues/practices related to the Housing First model, social determents of health, harm reduction, individual assessment, case management.
  • Strong Working knowledge in culturally sensitive and trauma-informed practice, and strength-based approach.
  • Flexibility to work occasional evenings or weekends as needed for community events or meetings.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office, databases and other technology.
  • Annual registration in a professional organization as required by law.
  • Valid driver’s license and has a reliable vehicle.

Why work for the YMCA?

The YMCA of Northern Alberta is a charity that ignites the potential in people, helping them grow, lead, and give back to their communities. We are committed to helping our employees and volunteers reach their full potential and are recognized as a great place to work and volunteer. We offer meaningful opportunities to make a difference in the lives of individuals and the health of our communities.

Joining the Y means contributing to over 100 years of providing opportunities for people to shine! Our Y serves tens of thousands of people each year through programs and services like health and fitness, licensed child care, day camps, mental health, employment and immigrant services, education and training, and services for youth, families and seniors.

Our Commitment to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion: Inclusion has power, and we take strides to create a diverse, inclusive workplace where everyone can belong. Diverse teams unleash new ideas, and employees thrive in a culture that recognizes and appreciates the unique perspectives and backgrounds of others. Through our differences in how we think and act we can form innovative and effective teams and deliver organizational success.

If we can make the recruitment process more accessible for you, please let us know when we reach out about an opportunity so we can work with you to accommodate your needs.

In keeping with our commitment to safety and child protection, job offers are contingent on the successful completion of a Police Records Check. Prior to your first day and every three years thereafter, a Vulnerable Police Records Check is required.

The YMCA only considers applicants who are legally entitled to work in Canada. We thank all applicants for their interest, however, due to the volume of applications we receive, we can only contact candidates who are selected for an interview.