Specialized Treatment & Alternate Response (STAR) Worker

$31.33/hour

Temporary Full-Time - 1 Vacancy

Rotating schedule

This position is within OPSEU Local 720 Bargaining Unit

Start Date: ASAP

End Date: August 21, 2026

Application deadline: August 22, 2025

Who we are!

Canadian Mental Health Association - Thunder Bay Branch is a non-profit service provider working to ensure mental health services are available for all. CMHA Thunder Bay is committed to providing quality services for all of Northwestern Ontario residents where all staff strive to protect and promote mental health for all through healthy lifestyle and exemplary recovery focused approach improving upon each individual's well-being.

What is the job?

The Star Worker works alongside a team member from the Superior North EMS Paramedics respond to individuals in a mental health/addiction crisis and will be situated at the local Superior North EMS station when so scheduled. The STAR Worker may work out of different locations (core partners office space) and this will be dependent on where the team will start, have breaks and end the day. The STAR Worker completes a comprehensive mental health assessment and connects individuals to the appropriate mental health/addiction's services. The STAR Worker also provides follow-up to individuals. The STAR Worker will also be scheduled for in office work as required and appropriate, such as administrative/office functions, telephone or regular mobile response. The work of the STAR Worker is guided in practice to apply the principles of Recovery.

What will you do day to day?

1. All duties and responsibilities outlined in the Star Worker job description.

2. Provide crisis intervention, support services and safety planning to individuals experiencing a mental health and/or addiction crisis.

3. Work in collaboration with Superior North EMS Paramedics by providing guidance and expertise in mental health and addiction intervention crisis and or resolution strategies through de-escalation techniques.

4. Provide service information and assist in appropriate referrals to mental health and addiction services, community-based programs, and other relevant support options including primary care, ensuring a comprehensive approach to care.

5. Maintain up-to-date client information and records in agency client records systems.

6. Maintain effective working relationships with community agencies, clients, family members, and other mental health/addictions specialists as appropriate.

7. Attend and contribute to Crisis Response Service team meetings and other client-related meetings as required.

8. Ensure safe work methods and practices at all times.

9. Represents the Canadian Mental Health Association, Thunder Bay Branch, in a professional manner and adheres to standards consistent with the values and philosophy of the Association.

10. Complying with CMHA's Health and Safety Policies

11. Complying with Superior North EMS applicable policies, procedures and protocols.

12. Performs any other tasks related to the position as required.

13. Follow and adhere to the Collective Agreement and other relevant policies and procedures.

What do you bring to the job?

A post-secondary degree or diploma in the health or human services field, along with one year of mental health experience
Applicants should demonstrate a good knowledge of community mental health and other social service resources and possess skills and experience in crisis assessment, intervention strategies, and crisis counselling/support
Applicants should demonstrate a willingness to learn and actively participate in an extensive training program provided in the Crisis Response program
The incumbent shall also have excellent interpersonal, communication, and problem-solving skills
Demonstrated understanding of personal space and the ability to role model healthy boundaries
Ability to manage conflict and crisis situations
Ability to communicate professionally with community agencies
Cultural competence for diverse populations
Personal qualities of empathy, understanding and patience
Must be legally eligible to work in Canada
Successful completion of a Police Vulnerable Sector Check (PVSC) is required
Ability to speak French is considered an asset
ASIST certification considered an asset
You must be available for shift work
Must possess a valid Class "G" driver's license

What is in it for you?

Membership in the Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan (HOOPP) which is one of the strongest and most stable defined benefit (DB) pensions in Canada
Opportunity to join a fast-paced, positive working environment where recognition and personal growth are highly valued
Being a part of an organization which is "Accredited" through Accreditation Canada

Position must be worked on site.

Interested applicants may submit a cover letter, resume & three workplace supervisory references to:

CMHA Thunder Bay is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment that is fully accessible and welcomes applications from all qualified individuals including those with a lived experience, members of visible minorities, Indigenous peoples and persons with disabilities.

Please make us aware of any known accommodation needs, if necessary.

We thank all candidates for their interest in this position however only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

To learn more about our services visit

Job Type: Fixed term contract

Pay: $31.33 per hour

Application question(s):
Are you legally authorized to work in Canada?

Licence/Certification:
Class G Licence (required)

Location:
Thunder Bay, ON P7A 4B8 (required)

Work Location: In person

Application deadline: 2025-08-22
Expected start date: 2025-08-25