Urgently Hiring: Remote 988 Chat/Text Representative - Emotional Support and Crisis Intervention Specialist

Join Our Team: Make a Difference in the Lives of Those in Crisis

Are you a compassionate and empathetic individual looking to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those in crisis? Do you possess excellent communication skills and a strong ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment? If so, we invite you to join our dedicated team as a Remote 988 Chat/Text Representative, where you will play a vital role in providing emotional support to individuals who reach out for help through the 988 Crisis and Suicide Lifeline.

About Our Organization

Our organization is committed to providing critical support to individuals in crisis, and we are seeking a team of dedicated professionals to join our mission. As a Remote 988 Chat/Text Representative, you will be part of a team that is passionate about making a difference in the lives of others. We offer a competitive salary, flexible work arrangements, and opportunities for professional growth and development.

Job Overview

This position is ideal for compassionate individuals eager to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those in crisis while working remotely from the Tampa Bay, FL area. As a 988 Chat/Text Representative, you will be responsible for responding to incoming chat and text inquiries from individuals seeking assistance through the 988 Crisis and Suicide Lifeline. You will utilize de-escalation techniques, safety planning, and strategies to reduce risk during conversations, and deliver empathetic and sensitive support to ensure clients feel understood and valued.

Key Responsibilities

• Respond to Incoming Inquiries: Respond to incoming chat and text inquiries from individuals seeking assistance through the 988 Crisis and Suicide Lifeline.
• Uphold Performance Metrics: Uphold performance metrics in accordance with the standards set by the 988 Lifeline.
• Engage with Individuals in Crisis: Engage with individuals in imminent crisis, utilizing de-escalation techniques, safety planning, and strategies to reduce risk during conversations.
• Deliver Emotional Support: Deliver empathetic and sensitive support to ensure clients feel understood and valued.
• Facilitate Referrals: Facilitate referrals, coordinate with mobile crisis units, and collaborate with law enforcement in emergency situations as needed.
• Complete Required Training: Complete required Lifeline Simulation Training and participate in annual refresher training.
• Quality Assurance: Attain a monthly quality assurance score of no less than 85%.
• Pursue Certification: Pursue certification in crisis support through the American Association of Suicidology (AAS) when eligible.
• Establish Trust-Based Relationships: Establish and maintain trust-based, confidential relationships with clients during and after interactions.
• Participate in Meetings and Initiatives: Participate in national, state, and local meetings and outreach initiatives as required.
• Ongoing Training and Supervision: Engage in ongoing training, supervision, and team meetings to enhance team cohesion and effectiveness.
• Adhere to Organizational Policies: Adhere to all organizational policies, practices, and procedures.

Essential Skills and Competencies

To succeed in this role, you will need to possess the following skills and competencies:

• Exceptional Verbal Communication: Exceptional verbal communication and customer service abilities.
• Time Management and Multitasking: Strong time management and multitasking skills.
• Data Entry and Computer Operations: Proficient in data entry and computer operations, including email communication, recordkeeping, and database management.
• Interpreting and Responding to Documents: Competent in interpreting and responding to various documents and client inquiries.
• Presenting Information: Ability to present information clearly to individuals or groups.

Qualifications

We are seeking candidates with the following qualifications:

• Bachelor's Degree: A Bachelor's Degree is preferred; however, candidates with a high school diploma or equivalent combined with relevant experience will be considered.
• Relevant Experience: A minimum of one year of experience in crisis management, mental health, or substance abuse support is required.
• Crisis Communication Experience: Prior experience in crisis communication utilizing chat or text is essential.
• Background in Health and Human Services: A background in Health and Human Services is preferred.

Career Growth Opportunities

This position offers the potential for professional development through:

• Ongoing Training: Ongoing training and supervision to enhance your skills and knowledge.
• Certification in Crisis Support: The opportunity to acquire certification in crisis support through the American Association of Suicidology (AAS).
• Career Advancement: Opportunities for career advancement within our organization.

Work Environment and Company Culture

We offer a flexible and supportive work environment that allows you to work remotely from the Tampa Bay, FL area. Our company culture is built on:

• Compassion: A culture of compassion and empathy, where we prioritize the well-being of our clients and team members.
• Collaboration: A collaborative and team-oriented environment, where we work together to achieve our mission.
• Innovation: A culture of innovation, where we continuously seek new ways to improve our services and support.

Compensation and Benefits

We offer a competitive salary and benefits package, including:

• Competitive Salary: A competitive salary that reflects your skills and experience.
• Flexible Work Arrangements: Flexible work arrangements, including remote work options.
• Ongoing Training and Development: Ongoing training and development opportunities.

How to Apply

If you are a compassionate and empathetic individual looking to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those in crisis, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity. Please submit your application today, and we will be in touch with you to discuss your qualifications further.

Don't hesitate to apply if you don't meet every single requirement. We value a great attitude and a willingness to learn above all. We look forward to hearing from you!