988 Crisis Call Specialist

988 Crisis Call Specialist

Join the front line of compassion. As a 988 Crisis Call Specialist, you'll play a vital role in providing life-saving emotional support to individuals experiencing mental health crises-right when they need it most.

Part-time and full-time positions are available. Fully remote in Washington, Arizona, Ohio, or Texas. $26.79/hour. Union-represented (OPEIU).

At Crisis Connections, we believe that every person deserves compassionate, accessible support during their most difficult moments. In this role, you will be a trusted voice for individuals reaching out via phone, chat or text, offering hope, connection, and practical support during moments of distress.

Our approach centers dignity, respect, and non-judgment—meeting people where they are and helping them move toward safety and stability.

What you'll do:

• Provide empathetic, nonjudgmental crisis intervention via phone, or chat and text
• Conduct suicide risk and behavioral health assessments and support de-escalation
• Collaborate with on-shift clinicians to ensure safety when higher-level intervention is needed
• Develop safety and action plans with individuals in crisis
• Connect callers to appropriate community resources and crisis response partners
• Accurately document interactions in the electronic health record
• Follow established 988 Lifeline protocols and performance standards
• Contribute to shared team goals for response times, availability, and quality care

What we're looking for:

• High school diploma or GED plus four (4) years of full-time behavioral health experience, or a combination of education and experience (Bachelor's degree + 1 year BH experience, Associate degree + 2 years BH experience)
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to multitask across multiple software platforms in a fast-paced environment
• Ability to remain focused and grounded during emotionally intense conversations
• Agency Affiliated Counselor (AAC) credential required by the end of the probationary period. Applications must be submitted within 30 days of hire. Crisis Connections will reimburse the cost of obtaining the credential.

Preferred experience:

• Crisis intervention or suicide prevention experience
• Behavioral health or contact center experience
• Knowledge of the King County public mental health system

Technology & work environment: This is a fully remote position, with requirements to support confidentiality and service quality:

• Must reside in Washington, Arizona, Ohio, or Texas
• Reliable high-speed internet (wired connection preferred; no hotspots)
• Smartphone capable of using Microsoft Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
• Quiet, private workspace suitable for confidential conversations
• Ability to sit or stand and use a headset for extended periods

A brief computer skills assessment is required as part of the hiring process. Accommodations are available upon request.

Scheduling & pay:

• Multiple schedules available (part-time and full-time)
• $26.79 per hour
• Union-represented position (OPEIU)
• Paid training and onboarding
• Full benefits

Our commitment to inclusion: Thriving employees create a thriving mission. Crisis Connections is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. We value lived experience and welcome applicants from all backgrounds. BIPOC individuals, people with disabilities, and members of the LGBTQ+ community are strongly encouraged to apply.

Ready to make a difference? If you're passionate about mental health, believe in compassionate crisis care, and want to be part of a mission-driven, supportive team-we'd love to hear from you. Apply today and help answer the call when it matters most.