Crisis Specialist Chat/Text GY (Full-Time)

About the role

At Crisis Connections, we believe that every person deserves compassionate, accessible support during their most difficult moments. As a 988 Specialist Crisis Chat/Text, you’ll play a vital role in providing life-saving emotional support to individuals experiencing mental health crises—right when they need it most. If you’re empathetic, calm under pressure, and motivated by meaningful work, we invite you to join our growing 988 Crisis Services team.

Why This Role Matters The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is transforming how people access mental health support. In this role, you will be a trusted voice for individuals reaching out via 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.

Responsibilities

• Provide empathetic, nonjudgmental crisis intervention via chat, and SMS 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

Requirements

We’re seeking candidates who bring both skill and heart to this work.

• 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 Behavioral Health experience, Associate degree + 2 years Behavioral Health 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 (reimbursement provided)
• Crisis intervention or suicide prevention experience
• Behavioral health or contact center experience
• Preferred: Knowledge of the King County and Washington State public mental health system

Benefits

• Union‑represented (OPEIU) role
• Reimbursement for Agency Affiliated Counselor (AAC) credential cost

Pay

$26.79/hour + $2/hr. shift differential

Schedule

After‑hours or Graveyard schedules; Full‑time role (4‑5 days per week, 30‑37.5 hours per week)