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Addiction Worker Jobs in Alberta (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Recovery Coach

Calgary, AB · On-site

CA$24.95/hr

A minimum of a two-year program in Addictions, Social Work or related, from a Public Post-Secondary Educational Institution, or in progress towards one * Front line experience working with indigenous ...

Showing results 41-60

Addiction Worker information

What is an addiction worker?

Addiction Workers are professionals who support individuals struggling with substance use disorders or behavioral addictions. They provide counseling, intervention, education, and community resources to help clients overcome their addictions and improve their quality of life. Addiction Workers may work in various settings such as rehabilitation centers, hospitals, community organizations, or outreach programs. Their roles often include conducting assessments, developing treatment plans, facilitating group sessions, and advocating for clients’ needs. They play a crucial role in supporting recovery and fostering long-term well-being.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as an addiction worker?

To thrive as an Addiction Worker, you need a background in social work, psychology, or counseling, often supported by relevant certifications or diplomas in addiction studies. Familiarity with case management software, assessment tools, and therapeutic intervention techniques is typically required. Compassion, strong communication, and cultural sensitivity are crucial soft skills for building trust and supporting clients through recovery. These skills enable effective client care, progress monitoring, and the delivery of tailored support in challenging environments.

What are common challenges addiction workers face when supporting clients in recovery?

Addiction Workers often encounter challenges such as building trust with clients who may be ambivalent about change, managing relapse situations, and addressing co-occurring mental health conditions. The work can also involve navigating complex family or social dynamics that impact a client’s recovery process. Successful Addiction Workers rely on strong communication skills, empathy, and resilience to help clients set realistic goals and access community resources, while also maintaining professional boundaries and practicing self-care.

What is the difference between Addiction Worker vs Substance Abuse Counselor?

AspectAddiction WorkerSubstance Abuse Counselor
CredentialsOften requires a high school diploma or equivalent; some roles need certification or associate degreeTypically requires a bachelor's degree in counseling, psychology, or related field; state licensure or certification often needed
Work EnvironmentCommunity clinics, treatment centers, hospitals, or outpatient facilitiesRehabilitation centers, outpatient clinics, hospitals, or private practices
Employer & IndustryNonprofit organizations, healthcare providers, government agenciesRehab centers, mental health clinics, private practices

While both Addiction Workers and Substance Abuse Counselors assist individuals with addiction issues, Substance Abuse Counselors generally have more advanced education and licensure requirements. Addiction Workers often serve as frontline support in various treatment settings, providing essential assistance and support to clients. Both roles are vital in addiction treatment, but the scope and qualifications can differ.

How to start a career as an addiction worker?

To start a career as an addiction worker, obtain relevant education such as a bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, or a related field, and gain experience through internships or volunteer work in addiction treatment settings. Certification or licensure, such as Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC), is often required or preferred. Developing strong communication and counseling skills is essential for working effectively with clients in this field.

What cities in Alberta are hiring for Addiction Worker jobs?

Cities in Alberta with the most Addiction Worker job openings:

Infographic showing various Addiction Worker job openings in Alberta as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.

EPL Outreach Worker - Stanley A. Milner Library

City of Edmonton

Edmonton, AB

CA$37.50 - CA$47.87/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago


Job description

If you are passionate about making a real difference in the community, the Edmonton Public Library has an incredible opportunity for you. As an Outreach Worker, you will work with community members and agencies to address the systemic issues and needs faced by socially vulnerable library visitors who spend time in and around the Stanley A. Milner Library and designated EPL branches. Community-building through roving service to connect with vulnerable and socio-economic diverse individuals within the library is also a focus.

Our Outreach Workers have two main purposes. Firstly, to complete vulnerability assessments and work with individuals who have intersecting needs that require long term solutions, such as income, housing, education, employment, mental health and addictions. The Outreach Workers provide individuals with information, support, referrals, and advocacy to assist them in making positive changes in their lives. Secondly, they serve as a resource to managers and library staff, supporting them to work effectively with and provide information services for socially vulnerable library visitors for the purpose of delivering quality customer service and library programs. EPL's Outreach Worker team works directly with the public by providing services in private appointments, maintaining a presence on the public floor of the library, and via drop in sessions. 

  • Social Work degree from a recognized post-secondary institution.
  • Current registration with the Alberta College of Social Workers.
  • Minimum of 3 years of related experience.
  • Experience with de-escalation techniques and non-violent intervention.
  • Experience and proficiency with the use of Microsoft Office programs.
What do you need to bring to this position?
  • Ability to build relationships with community agencies and socially vulnerable and socio-economically diverse community in a non-judgmental, trauma-informed way.
  • Knowledge of resources and social services available in the community.
  • Proven ability to work in a respectful and client-focused manner.
  • Effective problem solving skills, and ability to exercise reasonable and professional judgment.
  • Client-focus oriented and ability to exercise initiative, commitment and enthusiasm in completing the work.
  • Superior communication, interpersonal and conflict management skills.
  • Great attention to detail and excellent organizational skills and ability to multitask.
  • Ability to work effectively as a member of a team as well as independently.
  • Ability to demonstrate resilience through self-awareness to ensure effective self-care.
  • Embraces a harm reduction approach, emphasizing unconditional positive regard and respect for client autonomy.

Note: 

  • Satisfactory background screening is required for this position, which includes a Criminal Record Check/Police Information Check.
  • This position consists of varied schedules which include day, evening and weekend shifts.
  • This position is required to travel through Edmonton. consists of varied schedules which include day, evening and weekend shifts.

Who we are:
The secret ingredient for making EPL a magical place is no secret at all; in fact, it's very simple: We share. We share stories, ideas and experiences.  We share with our customers, our communities and ourselves. We are Edmonton's largest lender of all manner of information and entertainment.

Pay Band:   
$37.50 - $47.87 per hour.
*Approximately $68,521 - $87,471 per annum based on a 35 hour work week.Â