Experienced Crisis Support Specialist for 988 Chat/Text Services – Remote Opportunity in Tampa Bay, FL, with In-Person Training at blithequark's Clearwater Administrative Office

Introduction to blithequark and the 988 Crisis and Suicide Lifeline At blithequark, we are committed to providing critical support services to individuals in crisis, and we are seeking a compassionate and skilled Crisis Support Specialist to join our team. As a key member of our 988 Crisis and Suicide Lifeline, you will play a vital role in providing online emotional support to clients in need. If you are a dedicated and empathetic individual with a passion for helping others, we encourage you to apply for this rewarding opportunity. Job Overview As a 988 Chat/Text Representative at blithequark, you will be responsible for answering incoming chat and text messages from clients seeking support and guidance. This is a remote position, but you must already reside in the Tampa Bay, FL area, as in-person training will be required at our Clearwater administrative office for three weeks. You will be an integral part of our team, working to ensure that all clients receive the highest level of care and support. Key Responsibilities Respond to incoming chat and text messages from clients in a timely and compassionate manner, providing online emotional support and connecting them with resources as needed. Ensure that all 988 Crisis and Suicide Lifeline performance metrics are met, including quality assurance monitoring and simulation training modules. Converse with clients who are at imminent risk, using de-escalation techniques, screening, safety planning, and reducing lethal means during conversations. Provide referrals, deploy mobile crisis units, and engage law enforcement in active rescue situations as needed, always using the least invasive approach to service provision. Complete and pass all required Lifeline Simulation Training modules, participating in at least two modules per year and scoring at least 85% monthly in quality assurance monitoring. Seek to attain American Association of Suicidology (AAS) crisis certification when eligible, demonstrating a commitment to ongoing learning and professional development. Build and maintain relationships with clients that are respectful, trustworthy, and confidential, both during and after conversations. Participate in national, state, and local meetings, committees, community activities, and outreach events as required, representing blithequark and the 988 Crisis and Suicide Lifeline. Actively engage in ongoing supervision, training, and team meetings, contributing to proactive team efforts to achieve departmental and company goals. Follow all blithequark policies, practices, and procedures, adhering to the highest standards of quality and integrity. Qualifications and Requirements To be successful in this role, you will need to possess excellent verbal communication, customer service, and time management skills, with the ability to read and interpret documents, write routine reports, and respond to common inquiries or complaints from clients or community members. You should also have strong data entry skills, proficient personal computer skills, including email, recordkeeping, routine database activity, word processing, spreadsheet, graphics, and other software applications. The ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously and work in a fast-paced environment is essential. Essential Qualifications Excellent verbal communication, customer service, and time management skills. Ability to read and interpret documents, write routine reports, and respond to common inquiries or complaints. Strong data entry skills and proficient personal computer skills. Ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously and work in a fast-paced environment. Preferred Qualifications Bachelor's Degree from a four-year college or university or higher. One year or more of related crisis, mental health, or substance abuse experience. Experience handling crisis chat or text message conversations. Health and Human Services background. Above-average computer skills. Education, Training, and Experience A Bachelor's Degree from a four-year college or university or higher is preferred, although a high school diploma or equivalent with a combination of experience may be considered. You should have at least one year of related crisis, mental health, or substance abuse experience, with experience handling crisis chat or text message conversations being highly desirable. Physical Demands and Work Environment This position requires moderate physical activity, performing somewhat strenuous daily activities of a primarily administrative nature, including sitting and/or standing for extended periods with the ability to lift up to 10 lbs. Manual dexterity is sufficient to reach/handle items, work with fingers, and perceive attributes of objects and materials. What We Offer At blithequark, we offer a competitive compensation package, including a comprehensive benefits package, opportunities for professional growth and development, and a collaborative and supportive work environment. We are committed to providing our employees with the tools and resources they need to succeed, both personally and professionally. How to Apply If you are a motivated and compassionate individual who is passionate about helping others, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity. Please submit your application, including your resume and a cover letter, to be considered for this role. We look forward to hearing from you and exploring how you can contribute to our team at blithequark. Conclusion At blithequark, we are dedicated to providing critical support services to individuals in crisis, and we are seeking a skilled and compassionate Crisis Support Specialist to join our team. If you are a dedicated and empathetic individual with a passion for helping others, we encourage you to apply for this rewarding opportunity. With a competitive compensation package, opportunities for professional growth and development, and a collaborative and supportive work environment, blithequark is the ideal place to build a career in crisis support services. Apply today and join our team of dedicated professionals who are making a difference in the lives of others. Apply for this job