Mental Health Specialist II - Full Time: 12a - 8:30a (Mon-Fri)

Position Overview Rutgers University Behavioral Health Care (UBHC), established in 1971, offers a full continuum of evidence‑based behavioral health and addiction services for children, adolescents, adults, and seniors throughout New Jersey. UBHC employs 1,060 experienced behavioral health professionals and support staff dedicated to treatment, prevention, and education. The organization operates 15 sites across the state and provides services ranging from inpatient care to community outreach, crisis stabilization, family/caregiver support, case management, supported housing, and a licensed therapeutic school. Posting Summary Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, is seeking a Mental Health Specialist II for the 988 Lifeline Services within Rutgers University Behavioral Health Care. The role supports the unit’s mission by delivering streamlined, prompt, and customer‑friendly services to clients who contact the 988 Lifeline via telephone, chat, or text. Responsibilities include assessment of service needs, offering support and appropriate referrals or dispositions, and demonstrating competency in recognizing and responding to a wide range of client issues. Interacts with clients in a therapeutic manner. Ensures that all service requests are handled effectively and client‑friendly. Assesses service requests/referrals and responds in accordance with prescribed procedures. Assesses client’s condition to determine an appropriate disposition. Assumes overall responsibility for completing all documentation for dispositions. Documents assessments, interventions, and client interactions in a timely manner and in accordance with established policies. Qualifications Minimum Education and Experience: Four (4) years of relevant full‑time paid experience (part‑time or per‑diem experience may be substituted for the full‑time equivalent) or a bachelor’s degree in a relevant mental health, social, or human services field. Physical Demands and Work Environment: Standing and walking throughout the program space. Lifting up to 20 lbs. Handling phone requests under time and decision‑making pressure. Generally pleasant working conditions in a clean, well‑lit, and quiet to moderately loud setting. Crisis intervention is a common occurrence. Benefits Medical, prescription drug, and dental coverage Paid vacation, holidays, and various leave programs Competitive retirement benefits, including defined contribution plans and voluntary tax‑deferred savings options Employee and dependent educational benefits (when applicable) Life insurance coverage Employee discount programs Equal Employment Opportunity Statement It is university policy to provide equal employment opportunity to all its employees and applicants for employment regardless of race, creed, color, national origin, age, ancestry, nationality, marital or domestic partnership or civil union status, sex, pregnancy, gender identity or expression, disability status, liability for military service, protected veteran status, affectional or sexual orientation, atypical cellular or blood trait, genetic information (including the refusal to submit to genetic testing), or any other category protected by law. As an institution, we encourage all qualified applicants to apply. For additional information please see the Non‑Discrimination Statement at the following web address: #J-18808-Ljbffr Rutgers University