Helpline Counselor

Jewish Community Services of South Florida; Miami (FL); On-site; USD 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

Jewish Community Services of South Florida seeks a dedicated Helpline Counselor to provide telephone information, referrals, crisis counseling and suicide intervention after thorough assessment. The role requires HIPAA compliance and strong organizational skills.

The position includes data entry, maintaining client relationships, and collaboration with colleagues. A Bachelor’s in Social Work or related field and bilingual English/Spanish abilities are required, with experience in social services

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Social Work or Human Service field required; equivalent experience may be considered.
• Two years’ experience in information and referral services preferred.
• One or more years in crisis counseling or clinical work preferred.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, especially in high-stress situations.
• Bilingual in English/Spanish required.

Responsibilities

• Provides information and referrals to social service agencies for callers.
• Enters data into client database accurately and timely.
• Delivers telephone crisis counseling and suicide intervention during crises.
• Participates in trainings and professional development activities.
• Adheres to confidentiality and HIPAA regulations.

Skills

Information & Referral

Crisis Counseling

Bilingual: English/Spanish

Interpersonal Skills

Data Entry

Education

Bachelor's degree in Social Work or Human Service field

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Are you ready to make a difference in our community? At Jewish Community Services of South Florida (JCS), you’ll join a team of passionate professionals dedicated to making a positive impact in the lives of those we serve. Joining our team means contributing to a well-respected organization with over a century of service to the South Florida community, rooted in the values of compassion, inclusivity, and resilience. Our team members find purpose in empowering individuals and families through meaningful programs and initiatives. We foster a collaborative environment where your talents are valued, and you’ll have opportunities for personal and professional growth. If you’re looking to be part of an organization that values your contributions and promotes a culture of unity and support, JCS is the place to be.The Helpline Counselor provides telephone information, referrals, crisis counseling as well as suicide intervention to callers upon completion of a thorough assessment and identification of most presenting needs. This position performs work of a specialized, confidential nature on matters that impact clients, counselors and contract compliance. Excellent organizational, administrative and communication skills and attention to detail are required.ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:Provides appropriate information and referrals to social service agencies for callers contacting the HelplineEnsures data is accurately entered into the client database in a timely mannerProvides telephone crisis counseling as well as suicide intervention services to callers experiencing crisis situationsParticipates in trainings, seminars, workshops and in-services related to program and professional developmentMaintains an effective working relationship with colleagues through the use of appropriate interpersonal and communication skillsConsistently adheres to assigned schedule and demonstrates flexibility with regard to call center coverage needsProvides outstanding customer service to callers & accurately documents all calls into softwareAdheres to confidentiality policies and procedures as well as HIPAA regulationsObtains Certification as an Information & Referral Specialist through Alliance for Information & Referral Systems (AIRS)ABOUT: Jewish Community Services of South Florida (JCS) is the foremost non-profit, human services agency whose mission is to improve the quality of life and self-sufficiency of the Jewish and broader communities throughout South Florida in accordance with Jewish values. Founded in 1920, JCS delivers exemplary social services through compassionate and comprehensive programs that help people stay healthy and productive.JCS is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization and equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, disability, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, or veteran status.JCS strictly enforces a Drug-Free Workplace Policy, which prohibits the use, possession, distribution, or sale of controlled substances and alcohol on company premises, during work hours, or while representing the company. Pre-employment and random drug testing may be required as part of our commitment to a drug-free workplace.All Full-Time staff members are required to attend and work from start to end, JCS' Milk and Honey, Matzah Mitzvah and other similar events, which are typically held on Sundays and/or evenings. These events are essential to our organizational culture and participation is key to fostering team unity, supporting our values, and engaging with our community. By attending, it helps to set the standard for involvement and demonstrate our commitment to these meaningful traditions.**Please be advised, if selected for this position, you will be required to submit to a level II background screening through the DCF Clearinghouse: https://info.flclearinghouse.comTo perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Other duties may be assigned. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.Bachelor’s degree in Social Work or Human Service field, required; Equivalent experience and demonstrated skill in social services may be consideredTwo years’ experience in providing information and referral services, preferredOne or more years in crisis counseling or clinical work preferredStrong interpersonal skillsAbility to communicate information calmly and effectively in emergency or high stress situationsAbility to work effectively and with sensitivity with culturally diverse populations.Skilled in managing multiple tasksSkilled in the use of personal computers and related software applications to include Microsoft Office, email and intranetBilingual required (English/Spanish)