Description

While the full salary range for the Behavioral Health Dispatch Specialist position is $28.22 - $42.33 hourly / $58,697.60 - $88,046.40 annually, the anticipated hiring range is $28.22 - $35.28 hourly / $58,697.60 - $73,382.40 annually. Final salary DOQ.

Candidates hired are eligible to receive a $1,500.00 sign on bonus (while grant funds are available).

GENERAL STATEMENT OF DUTIES: Under the general supervision of the Behavioral Health Response Program Manager, the Behavioral Health Dispatch Specialist will be part of a collaborative team working with the Arapahoe County Sheriff's Office Dispatch Center and the Behavioral Health Co-Responder Clinicians. Responsibilities include assisting with de-escalation, consultation, triaging, and providing immediate telephone assistance to individuals who may be experiencing a behavioral health crisis. Emergency Communication Technicians will transfer eligible calls, believed to be related to a behavioral health crisis to the Behavioral Health Dispatch Specialist, to provide immediate telephone assistance. The Behavioral Health Dispatch Specialist will provide effective crisis intervention services including clinical assessments/screenings, when warranted, to determine and implement the appropriate level of care and service to all callers. Duties EXAMPLES OF ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: The following duty statements are illustrative of the essential functions of the job:

Proficiently handles inbound call volume in a call center environment that demands providing a high level of service within standardized time constraints. Provides support to the 911 Dispatch Center and takes calls that are behavioral health related. Enters call information into the computer aided dispatch equipment (CAD). Monitors and updates CAD with the latest information to remain current with call for service activity and officer's status. Uses maps, map books, computerized maps, and the Internet to determine jurisdictions and properly locate call locations. Manages call times in an efficient and responsible manner. Able to finesse ambiguous situations presented by challenging callers. Demonstrates proficiency in work habits and time management skills. Performs high quality clinical screenings with excellent customer service skills. Displays courtesy and sensitivity when conducting telephone triage interviews with clients that are experiencing problems. Prepares documentation in a proficient and professional manner. Operates computers and standard office equipment, including commonly used computer software programs, as required by the position. Maintains accurate and timely clinical records. Efficiently and effectively enters information from callers into electronic database system. Assists 911 Dispatchers with identifying appropriate services to dispatch to the Behavioral Health Response Team. Assists Co-Responders and Deputies with finding placement and bed availability for assessments. Maintains regular and acceptable attendance at such level as determined at the Sheriff's Office discretion. Interacts effectively with others and exercises good judgment when dealing with people in sensitive situations. Performs various other duties and functions as required or assigned within area of expertise or scope of the position. Requirements REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

Working knowledge of the legal and ethical frameworks for area of licensure, as well as understanding the criteria for mental health care and treatment in Colorado Statute (Title 27, Article 65, C.R.S.). Working knowledge of major mental illness, traumatic brain injury, dementia, trauma informed care, intellectual/developmental disabilities, substance use disorders, suicide assessment, safety planning and crisis de-escalation. Knowledge of law enforcement accreditation standards at the Sheriff's Office. Ability to use computer systems, including MS Office Suite Programs. Ability to operate computer aided dispatch equipment (CAD). Excellent multi-tasking skills, including being able to listen, talk and type all at the same time. Ability to act and react to emergency and/or threatening situations in a manner consistent with the law, policies, and procedures. Ability to learn and adhere to multiple protocols for handling of calls. Ability to communicate effectively, in both verbal and written English, to include public speaking. Ability to communicate effectively with angry, emotional, and excited persons via telephone. Ability to remain calm under urgent circumstances. Ability to maintain confidentiality of records and information. Ability to distinguish different auditory tones. Ability to apply sound reasoning and decision-making. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with supervisors, co- workers, and the public. Ability to operate standard office equipment, as required by the position. Ability to get along well with others and interact in a professional manner with all staff. Must be flexible with work hours and special requests from supervisors. Ability to change quickly and adapt in a fast-paced environment. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: EDUCATION: Bachelor's Degree in Behavioral Health, Social Work, Counseling, or a closely related field.

EXPERIENCE: Minimum of two (2) years of experience in crisis