Mental Health Specialist, Addictions
Job Summary
Department Information
The Department of Health and Social Services works under the direction of the Minister and Deputy Minister, in partnership with the Health and Social Services Authorities, to support the health and wellbeing of people across the NWT through planning, development, evaluation and reporting on program and service delivery.
HSS is committed to the development and provision of quality services in such a way as to make the best use of public resources, ensure the sustainability of the system, focus on client safety and best practices and promote positive health and social outcomes. HSS strives to continually improve the health and social service system to ensure best health, best care, and a better future for the people of the NWT.
Job Information
The Mental Health Specialist, Addictions, provides strategic leadership, consultation, monitoring, and evaluation to the Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT), Health and Social Services Authorities, community agencies, and key partners to strengthen mental wellness, substance use, and addictions recovery programs and services across the Northwest Territories.
This position plays a critical role in addressing complex mental wellness and substance use challenges in the NWT, including the impacts of trauma, family and institutional violence, and the social and emotional well-being of children, youth, adults, and families.
Through collaboration, evidence-informed planning, and system improvement initiatives, the incumbent supports the development of accessible, culturally responsive, and effective services that promote wellness, recovery, and positive outcomes for NWT residents.
Key Responsibilities
- Build and maintain strong partnerships with Health and Social Services Authorities, community organizations, Indigenous governments, and other stakeholders to advance mental wellness and substance use initiatives across the NWT.
- Support the planning, implementation, and continuous improvement of mental wellness, substance use, and addictions recovery programs and services.
- Monitor and evaluate territorial programs and initiatives to ensure services are accessible, effective, and responsive to community needs.
- Contribute to the development and implementation of territorial strategies, policies, and priorities related to mental wellness and substance use health.
- Research emerging trends and best practices to inform program development and system improvements.
- Help shape a comprehensive continuum of care that includes prevention, early intervention, treatment, recovery, and wellness promotion.
- Lead and support projects that address identified needs, improve outcomes, and strengthen performance measurement across the system.
Key Qualifications
- A baccalaureate (bachelor's) degree in a mental health/addictions-related field, and 5 years experience. Experience in both the fields of addictions and mental health field is an asset. Experience in health and social delivery in a northern aboriginal region/community is also an asset.
- Related fields may include health policy management and evaluation, health science, psychology, nursing, mental wellness and substance use health.
- Equivalencies may include:
- A master's degree in a mental health/addictions-related field, and three (3) years' experience. Experience in both the fields of addictions and mental health field is an asset. Experience in health and social delivery in a northern aboriginal region/community is also an asset.
- A diploma in a mental health/addictions-related field, and seven (7) years' experience. Experience in both the fields of addictions and mental health field is an asset. Experience in health and social delivery in a northern aboriginal region/community is also an asset.
GNWT Inquiries
Inquiries Only:
Department of Finance
Government of the Northwest Territories
YELLOWKNIFE CENTRE 5TH FLOOR
BOX 1320 YELLOWKNIFE NT X1A 2L9
Tel (867) 767-9154 Extension 14106
Fax (867) 873-0445
jobsyk@gov.nt.ca
Note: If you do not receive electronic notification confirming receipt of your application, please follow up via telephone.
More Information
Indigenous Employment Policy
Candidates must clearly identify their eligibility in order to receive priority consideration under the Indigenous Employment Policy.
Criminal Records Check
Candidates must provide a satisfactory criminal record check. Failure to provide a satisfactory check may deem you disqualified from the competition.
Diversity and Inclusion
The Government of the Northwest Territories is an inclusive workplace. If you have a disability and you require support during the hiring process, you are encouraged to identify your needs if you are contacted for an assignment or interview so that you may be accommodated during the hiring process.
Eligibility
Eligibility lists may be created from this competition to fill future term and indeterminate positions.
Equivalencies
Equivalencies may be considered based on a one-year of directly related experience equivalent to one year of education or one year of education for one year of experience. However, combinations of education and experience must often be considered on a case-by-case basis. For a full list of equivalencies that will be considered for this role, please contact human resources.
Job Opening Information
Job Opening ID # 27983
Closing Date: July 1, 2026 - 23:59, Mountain Time
Salary Information
The salary range for this position is from $59.62 per hour to $71.22 per hour (approximately $116,259 - $138,879 annually) plus an annual Northern Allowance of $3,700.
Application Assistance
For more information on preparing and submitting your application, please visit: Preparing Your Application