**Experienced Crisis & 988 Specialist – Remote Part-Time Opportunity at blithequark**

Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of others? Do you have a strong desire to work in a dynamic and supportive environment where you can grow professionally and personally? Look no further than blithequark, a leading organization dedicated to creating a community of opportunity where everyone has hope and can reach their full potential. **About blithequark** At blithequark, we envision a world where everyone has access to the resources and support they need to thrive. Our mission is to solve our community's toughest challenges by connecting people, resources, and ideas. We believe in the power of diversity, equity, and inclusion, and we strive to create a workplace culture that reflects these values. **Job Summary** We are seeking an experienced Crisis & 988 Specialist to join our team on a part-time remote basis. As a Crisis & 988 Specialist, you will play a critical role in providing emotional support and connecting individuals in crisis with the resources they need to overcome their challenges. This is a unique opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of others while working in a dynamic and supportive environment. **Key Responsibilities and Essential Functions** * Attend staff meetings, in-services, training sessions, and conferences as required to maintain job responsibilities * Participate in staff training activities to maintain the required annual training hours * Keep Microsoft TEAMS open and check frequently, acknowledging new posts from the Crisis & 988 Director or other supervisory staff promptly * Keep Outlook email account open and minimized on desktop during work hours, responding to supervisor emails promptly * Document and maintain accurate, thorough records of all telephone interventions transacted during the work shift * Be fully prepared to begin answering phone lines promptly per assigned work schedule * Log into the call queue to take calls * Adhere to lunch and shift schedule unless change is approved in advance by the Supervisor * Keep all activities in line with the core values and contribute to the positive culture of blithequark * Contribute to the overall effectiveness of the Crisis and 988 by completing all other tasks as assigned * Answer phone calls with an appropriate tone of voice, paying close attention to voice inflection and volume * Answer chats, texts, and emails using correct spelling, grammar, and professional language, paying close attention to the inclusion of feeling reflections * Demonstrate proficiency in using multiple types of contact center software, computer hardware, and telephone equipment * Maintain an acceptable level of contact handling and customer service performance as described by 988 training standards * Assess the needs of persons contacting 988 and provide para-professional counseling, information, and referral services, crisis intervention, suicide de-escalation/intervention, and linkage services via various channels of communication * Use active listening skills and conversational intent to develop a strategy that identifies solutions to barriers to access, provide high-quality confidential connections to resources and services, demonstrate objectivity and empathy, and be non-judgmental and neutral in handling all contacts * Develop and implement crisis-related safety plans * If imminent risk to the individual or others, engage 911 to assist in response * Maintain a non-judgmental attitude when interacting with contacts, displaying sensitivity to all cultural backgrounds * Referral process consists of assessing the needs of the inquirer, identifying appropriate resources, and providing enough information about resources to help the inquirer make an informed decision * Follow-up with designated at-risk callers to determine referral outcomes, in line with 988 policy and procedures **Experience/Qualifications** * High school diploma/GED, with a minimum one-year experience in the human services, social work, or customer services field required * Bachelor's degree in social work, sociology, or related field preferred * Crisis, screening, and suicide prevention work experience highly desirable * Ability to pass and maintain a Level 2 background check required * Must successfully complete Inform USA exam once eligible * High level of proficiency in web-based systems, real-time communication systems (i.e., chat/text), Microsoft Office, and other client record management systems * Able to troubleshoot basic technical issues * Adaptable and able to move with change while maintaining a positive attitude * Self-directed to take initiative in follow-up and resolution of daily issues * Active listening and interviewing skills * Ability to conduct approved suicide assessment * Ability to work with people in great need * Capacity to perform work calmly and effectively in an emotionally intense environment * Clear, concise, and effective written and verbal communication * Relate and interact successfully with persons of various social, cultural, economic, and educational backgrounds * Deal with people in a manner that shows sensitivity, tact, and professionalism * Ability to problem-solve multifaceted difficulties **Skills and Competencies** * Strong communication and interpersonal skills * Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and prioritize tasks effectively * High level of proficiency in Microsoft Office and other client record management systems * Ability to troubleshoot basic technical issues * Strong active listening and interviewing skills * Ability to conduct approved suicide assessment * Ability to work with people in great need * Capacity to perform work calmly and effectively in an emotionally intense environment * Clear, concise, and effective written and verbal communication * Relate and interact successfully with persons of various social, cultural, economic, and educational backgrounds * Deal with people in a manner that shows sensitivity, tact, and professionalism * Ability to problem-solve multifaceted difficulties **Career Growth Opportunities and Learning Benefits** * Opportunities for professional growth and development in a dynamic and supportive environment * Access to training and development programs to enhance skills and knowledge * Collaborative and inclusive work environment that values diversity, equity, and inclusion * Flexible scheduling and remote work options * Competitive compensation and benefits package * Opportunities for advancement and career growth within the organization **Work Environment and Company Culture** * blithequark is a hybrid work environment, with the possibility of remote work dependent on performance, reliability, and a private work space * Collaborative and inclusive work environment that values diversity, equity, and inclusion * Flexible scheduling and remote work options * Competitive compensation and benefits package * Opportunities for advancement and career growth within the organization * Vibrant work environment with a focus on employee well-being and satisfaction **Compensation, Perks, and Benefits** * Competitive pay commensurate with education and experience based on current market * Health insurance – generous zero to low-cost Medical, Dental, and Vision for employees and dependents * 403(b) matching – generous matching up to 6% of annual pay * Holidays – 11 paid holidays, three personal holidays, and four year-end bonus days * Vacation – two weeks paid vacation * Flexible schedule – hybrid working environment with the ability to modify as needed * Vibrant work environment – office space in The Jessie in downtown Jacksonville, a nonprofit and community gathering space in a sustainable, state-of-the-art facility with free monthly parking * Purpose – help blithequark transform NEFL into a community of opportunity and hope for ALL people * Employee Assistance Program * A fun, challenging, and inclusive culture **How to Apply** If you are passionate about making a difference in the lives of others and are looking for a dynamic and supportive work environment, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity. Please submit your application, including your resume and a cover letter, to [insert contact information]. We look forward to hearing from you! **Equal Opportunity Employer** blithequark is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from diverse candidates. We are committed to creating a workplace culture that values diversity, equity, and inclusion. Apply for this job