Dispatch Coordinator (Temporary- Project Respond)

Cascadia Health • Portland, OR

3d • $26 - $28 • Onsite

About The Position

The Dispatch Coordinator is responsible for supporting and directing the mobile crisis team by obtaining and relaying critical information regarding individuals we serve (IWS) in the community experiencing mental health crisis. This position is the primary contact with community partners including the Behavioral Health Call Center and law enforcement to gather all relevant information to dispatch mobile crisis teams into the community.
The job incumbent must understand, appreciate, and respect the differences within our Cascadia community. As such, it is expected that this position promotes integrated care, our vision of trauma-informed and person-first approaches and helps create a work environment of acceptance.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in a behavioral science field from an accredited college or university or three years of full-time professional experience providing direct service to individuals in a social service setting.
• Demonstrate the competencies to become credentialed as a Qualified Mental Health Associate (QMHA), as outlined in the Oregon Administrative Rulings (OARs).
• Certification must be kept current and in compliance with OARs through MHACBO.
• A minimum of one year’s experience working with individuals with severe and persistent mental health challenges.
• Effective communication and active listening skills.
• Demonstrated effective interpersonal and customer service skills.
• Ability to demonstrate professionalism, reliability, and initiative in daily work activities
• Knowledge of professional standards, ethical conduct, and accountability expectations in a healthcare environment.
• Understanding of principles related to person‑centered care, safety, and well‑being.
• Ability to work proactively and effectively in a team as well as independently.
• Operate computer hardware and software at a level needed to effectively perform job functions.
• Must have the ability to perform CPR and properly use AED equipment.
• BLS certification training will be provided within the first 60 days of hire for client-facing staff, and CPR certification training will be provided within 120 days for all other staff.
• Certification must remain current.

Responsibilities

• Respond to and gather critical information from the Behavioral Health Call Center, law enforcement, Cascadia Health sites, referral source(s) and other community partners requesting services from the mobile crisis team.
• Review and summarize historic information from multiple electronic health record (EHR) systems of clients' mental health status and risk factors, including suicidality, homicidally, and substance use and quickly deliver this to the responding team(s).
• Monitor the real-time location and status of mobile crisis teams, ensuring appropriate coverage and dispatch based on availability, including break status.
• Dispatch mobile crisis teams to IWS experiencing mental health crises. Collaborate with emergency services, including law enforcement and medical personnel, to coordinate crisis responses and ensure appropriate care for IWS.
• Facilitate access to mental health resources and support services, including referrals to crisis stabilization units, psychiatric hospitals, and community-based treatment programs.
• Provide follow-up support and advocacy for IWS, ensuring continuity of care and connection to ongoing mental health services.
• Maintain accurate and timely documentation in accordance with agency policies and procedures.
• Apply Feedback Informed Treatment (FIT) practices as part of service delivery team and in alignment with Cascadia and program’s current level of FIT implementation.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
• Comply with and implement regulations, policies, and procedures under which the department and program operate.
• Assist in crisis situations as appropriate, following emergency protocols and procedures.
• Understand fire regulations and evacuation procedures; participate in regular safety drills in compliance with department policies and procedures.
• Document and maintain records in a manner that ensures compliance with all agency policies and procedures and local, state, and federal regulations.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date documentation as required and complete electronic medical records (EMR) as required using Cascadia software.
• Adhere to mandatory abuse reporting laws, HIPAA and 42CFR regulations requirements.
• Complete annual employee training requirements on a timely basis.
• Participate in all scheduled staff meetings, supervision sessions, and other departmental and agency meetings.

Benefits

• Generous Paid Time Off Package - Full-time employees earn 6 weeks of PTO in their first year!
• Medical and Dental Coverage (begins 1st of the month following hire date)
• VSP Vision Discount Plan
• 403(b) Retirement Plan - Eligible after 60 days with immediate 100% vesting and a 1-to-1 company match up to 3% per pay period, plus the opportunity for an additional discretionary contribution (up to 5%) at the end of the fiscal year.
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA) (Medical, dependent care, and transportation options)
• Short-Term Disability, Long-Term Disability, and Life Insurance
• Paid Bereavement and Jury Duty Leave
• Length of Service Award
• Voluntary Life Insurance
• Supplemental Insurance
• Student loan forgiveness options
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Bike to Work Reimbursement

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level