Crisis Intervention Specialist (CIS), HART Program

If you’re looking to be a part of a collaborative environment where your skills can make an impact, explore our current opportunities in creating a better future for public health. About Harris County Public Health Harris County Public Health (HCPH) includes a network of more than 1,100 public health professionals working together to improve health outcomes for the third most populous county in the United States. HCPH provides a multitude of services such as medical and dental services, community programming, and health education for the approximately 2.3 million people in unincorporated Harris County. Through its core values of innovation, engagement, and health equity, HCPH strives to bring meaningful solutions to public health issues while keeping Harris County healthy and vibrant. Our Values Transparency – We share information openly and honestly so that staff, partners, and the community understand our actions and the reasons behind them. Integrity – Our actions reflect strong ethical principles, ensuring we remain trustworthy, accountable, and consistent with our mission. Respect – We foster a supportive environment by valuing diverse perspectives, listening intentionally, and treating people with dignity in every interaction. Impact – We focus our efforts on activities that improve health, reduce disparities, and create meaningful, measurable outcomes for the communities we serve. Collaboration – We actively partner across teams, disciplines, organizations, and communities to align our efforts toward common goals. Position Overview Under the direction of the Holistic Assistance Response Team (HART) Operations Manager and Assistant Operations Manager, the Crisis Intervention Specialist (CIS) works in partnership with the HART EMT to form the Response Team. The CIS is responsible for assessing and providing information, resources, strategies, and outreach to individuals experiencing social welfare, mental, and/or behavioral health issues. The CIS engages in informed decision‑making using best practices in crisis response and makes linkages to services. The CIS provides the appropriate level of response and intervention that includes but is not limited to safely and actively engaging community members in non‑enforcement strategies and tactics such as de‑escalation, harm reduction, and trauma‑informed care. The CIS may transport and/or arrange transportation services for community members in need. Duties & Responsibilities Respond to calls for non‑emergency community care and social concerns, and provide on‑site response that includes screening and assessing an individual’s physical, mental, and social condition to determine stabilization and level of care needed. Aim to resolve needs on‑scene using active engagement strategies and tactics to assess the community member’s needs, mitigate risk and potential issues, and link to appropriate resources for follow‑up with the goal of long‑term self‑sufficiency. Maintain community members’ confidentiality, except when the individual has granted consent and/or in instances of imminent harm to self or others, and/or where required to report by law. Maintain a collegial working relationship with dispatch and other first responders, and collaborate to make informed decisions related to best practices for crisis management, determination of need for immediate transport for care, and consideration for responding to incidents involving a minor. Transport community member and/or arrange transportation to services, as needed and appropriate. Ensure all documentation is completed accurately, in detail, and submitted before end of shift. Perform daily vehicle inspection check, equipment, and supply checks to ensure all are in good working condition before and after shift. Harris County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. If you need special services or accommodations, please call View phone number on click.appcast.io or email View email address on click.appcast.io. This position is subject to a criminal history check. Only relevant convictions will be considered and, even when considered, may not automatically disqualify the candidate. Education High School Diploma or equivalent; Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Public Health, Human Services, Psychology, or other health‑related field. Experience At least three (3) years of experience in crisis intervention or mental health services field. Current Texas Driver’s License (upon hire). Knowledge, Skills and Abilities All CIS employees are to complete all required HART training and continued education as assigned. Ability to coordinate activities closely with others in stressful situations. Ability to effectively communicate verbal & written English. Ability to take direction and adapt to changing situations/ job duties. Ability to de‑escalate complex situations by using trauma‑informed care and harm reduction practices. Must possess the ability to write simple correspondence or reports. Must possess the ability to effectively present information one‑to‑one and in small group situations to other employees and/or managers. Must have a clean driving record. Core Competencies Data Analytics and Assessment Skills: Ability to use data to analyze community health needs and support decisions that improve community health outcomes. Communication Skills: This competency focuses on using clear and effective communication to engage audiences, address misinformation, and build trust, supporting informed decisions and stronger public health outcomes. Health Advancement Skills: This competency focuses on applying principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion to public health, addressing systemic barriers, and promoting fair access to resources for healthier communities. Community Partnership Skills: This competency focuses on collaborating with communities to address the systems and policies affecting health, fostering engagement, shared ownership, and sustainable improvements in well‑being. Public Health Science Skills: This competency focuses on using public health science and evidence‑based approaches to develop and improve policies and programs, ensuring effective delivery of the 10 Essential Public Health Services. Languages Bilingual (Spanish, Chinese Mandarin, Korean, Vietnamese, Hindi) Position Type and Typical Hours of Work This is a full‑time position. Schedules may vary during the hours of 6 am - 10 pm; however, days and times may change and will involve working evenings, weekends, and possibly holidays due to the nature of the work and community engagement events. Days and hours will depend on the needs of the community and division. Work Environment This position involves both a professional office environment and field‑based responsibilities. It requires flexibility, adaptability and a balance between office work and outdoor activities with the potential for varying weather conditions. Physical Demands Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs, have the ability to stand, bend, and or sit for extended periods of time. Work Location Harris County Public Health: Community Health & Violence Prevention Services Division – 1111 Fannin St., Houston, Texas 77002. Notice to Applicants Qualifying education, experience, knowledge, and skills must be documented on your job application. You may attach a resume to the application as supporting documentation, but ONLY information stated on the application will be used for consideration. “See Resume” will not be accepted for qualifications. Employment may be contingent on passing a drug screen and meeting other standards. Due to a high volume of applications positions may close prior to the advertised closing date or at the discretion of the Hiring Department. #J-18808-Ljbffr Harris County