Behavioral Health Responder Tier 2

Position Overview

This role involves responding in-person or via phone to assist individuals facing challenges related to mental and behavioral health, substance use, homelessness, chronic mental illness, or other issues that do not necessitate police or emergency medical response.

This position is safety-sensitive and subject to random drug and alcohol testing. It involves working under potentially challenging, hazardous, and emergency conditions.

Key Responsibilities

• Respond to 911 calls concerning people with behavioral or mental health issues, addiction, or homelessness, addressing situations that don't require police or EMT intervention.
• Evaluate safety conditions, identify client needs, and refer to appropriate services while considering client preferences.
• Deliver short-term, goal-oriented interventions.
• Create or help develop safety and crisis management plans to support individual and community safety.
• Conduct case management assessments and follow-up support.
• Collaborate with city personnel and community service providers to connect individuals with ongoing care options.
• Participate in community meetings as required and promote departmental visibility at events like health fairs.
• Stay informed about current trends, culturally relevant models, and innovations in behavioral health.
• Distribute information regarding city resources and assistance programs.
• Provide assistance to individuals, schools, and social agencies and occasionally offer transportation to treatment or service facilities.
• Offer guidance to department staff and communicate professionally with clients and community members.
• Provide culturally competent care while strictly maintaining confidentiality of client information.
• Prepare detailed reports, maintain records, and compile statistical data.
• Operate city vehicles and communication devices during on-scene responses.
• Assess a broad range of crisis scenarios and apply appropriate intervention methods to de-escalate situations.
• Deliver crisis support and connect victims of sexual assault and related crimes to specialized services.
• Educate the community on the department’s role and services.
• Potentially respond to emergencies on an on-call basis.

Additional Duties

• Perform other related tasks as assigned.
• Complete mandatory annual training such as mental health first aid, continuing education units (CEU), and CPR/first aid.

Qualifications and Requirements

• A master's degree from an accredited institution.
• At least four years of experience in social services, behavioral health, public health, emergency management, criminal justice, human services, law enforcement, emergency dispatch, corrections, or related fields including psychology, counseling, sociology, or public safety disciplines.
• Preferred certifications/licenses include Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW), Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW), Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC), Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), Certified Nurse Practitioner (CNP), or Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS).
• Valid New Mexico Driver's License or ability to obtain prior to hire.
• Obtain a City Operator's Permit within six months from hire.
• Pass a security background check via FBI's Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS).
• Willingness to work flexible hours including nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Bilingual proficiency in Spanish and English is preferred.

Working Conditions

• The role predominantly takes place in the field, with occasional office work.
• Physical demands include standing, walking, kneeling, crouching, and climbing for extended periods and ability to operate wearing personal protective equipment such as body armor, gloves, masks, and protective clothing.