Crisis Specialist Chat/Text GY (Full-Time)

Crisis Connections; United States; Remote; USD 44,000 - 56,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote work

Unionized role (OPEIU)

Job summary

Crisis Connections is hiring a 988 Crisis Specialist to provide compassionate crisis support via chat and text. This full-time, remote position serves the 988 Lifeline, with after-hours scheduling and a focus on safety planning and resource connection.

Applicants should have a high school diploma or GED with behavioral health experience and pursue the AAC credential by probation end. The role requires residency in Washington, Arizona, Ohio, or Texas, reliable internet, and a quiet workspace.

Qualifications

• Requires high school diploma or GED with 4 years of behavioral health experience or equivalent education/experience mix.
• Must have strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to multitask across multiple software platforms in a fast-paced environment.
• Must obtain Agency Affiliated Counselor (AAC) credential by end of probation and have it reimbursed by Crisis Connections.

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 988 Lifeline protocols and performance standards.
• Contribute to team goals for response times, availability, and quality care.

Skills

Empathy

Crisis intervention

Active listening

Communication skills

Multitasking

Education

High school diploma or GED

AAC credential

Tools

EHR systems

Job description

Description

Job Title: 988 Crisis Specialist Chat/Text

Team and Department: 988 Crisis Services Chat/Text Team

Schedule: After-hours or Graveyard schedules

Job Type: Full-time role (4 - 5 days a week; 30 - 37.5 hours per weeks)

Work model: Fully Remote (candidates must reside in WA, AZ, OH, TX).
Pay rate: $26.79/hour + $2/hr. shift differential.

Please note this is a union-represented (OPEIU) 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.

What You’ll Do

As a 988 Crisis Specialist, you will:

• 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

What We’re Looking For:

Required Qualifications:

• 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. Applications must be submitted within 30 days of hire. Crisis Connections will reimburse the cost of obtaining the credential.
• Crisis intervention or suicide prevention experience
• Behavioral health or contact center experience

Preferred Experience:

• Knowledge of the King County and Washington State public mental health system

Technology & Work Environment

• Must reside in Washington, Arizona, Ohio, or Texas
• Reliable high-speed internet (wired connection require; no hotspots or satellite)
• Smartphone capable of using Microsoft Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
• Quiet, private workspace suitable for confidential conversations
• Ability to sit and use a headset for extended periods

A brief computer skills assessment is required as part of the hiring process. Accommodations are available upon request.

Our Commitment to Inclusion:

Thriving employees create a thriving mission. Crisis Connections is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. We value lived experience and welcome applicants from all backgrounds. BIPOC individuals, people with disabilities, and members of the LGBTQ+ community are strongly encouraged to apply.

Ready to Make a Difference?

If you’re passionate about mental health, believe in compassionate crisis care, and want to be part of a mission-driven, supportive team, we’d love to hear from you.