United Way of Connecticut
United Way of Connecticut
United Way of Connecticut is a statewide nonprofit that helps residents navigate essential services, find reliable information, and connect with community support. Through its 211 program, the organization links people with resources such as food, shelter, child care, and early-intervention services, while also providing suicide intervention and crisis assistance. It supports Connecticut communities during natural disasters and other emergencies by sharing timely guidance, and brings United Ways together to strengthen collaboration and develop programs that address local needs. The organization’s work spans information services, health and human services, crisis response, and community development.

211 Crisis Contact Center Specialist (Hybrid)

Provide crisis support through 211 calls, texts, and chats for United Way of Connecticut. De-escalate urgent situations and connect people with emergency, behavioral health, and community resources.

Description

  • Respond to calls, texts, and chats from people experiencing emotional or mental health crises
  • Offer compassionate assistance using established de-escalation methods
  • Refer individuals to community providers, mobile crisis teams, and emergency services
  • Record interactions accurately to support continuity of care
  • Work collaboratively with the crisis contact center team
  • Apply established protocols and escalation procedures
  • Work mainly first-shift hours, generally 7:00 AM–3:00 PM, with occasional second-shift coverage based on operational needs
  • Attend on-site training Monday–Friday from 8:00 AM–4:30 PM

Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree and one year of human services experience
  • Academic or professional background in social work, psychology, counseling, or criminal justice
  • Experience with crisis intervention, mental health services, shelters, or hotlines
  • Customer service experience
  • Relevant internships may qualify recent graduates
  • Crisis-response experience is preferred
  • Availability to work holidays or during inclement weather when required
  • Completion of the applicable Spanish and/or Portuguese proficiency assessment is required to qualify for the language differential

Benefits

  • $4.00-per-hour shift differential for eligible hours worked
  • After 90 days and a successful assessment, an additional $0.75 per hour is available for proficiency in one language or $1.50 per hour for proficiency in both Spanish and Portuguese
  • Paid comprehensive training
  • Continuing coaching and supervision
  • Employer 401(k) contribution of 5%
  • Paid time off begins accruing immediately
  • 13 paid holidays annually
  • Health coverage includes 80% of the medical plan premium and deductible
  • Tuition reimbursement after one year
  • Eligible employment counts toward Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness
  • After training, a hybrid schedule with four remote days and one in-office day
  • Supportive, inclusive, mission-focused workplace culture
  • Workplace practices emphasize employee wellbeing and awareness of compassion fatigue

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