What are the responsibilities and job description for the Mental Health Specialist 1 - Crisis Team position at Linn County Department of Health Services?
Mental Health Department (Classification 771)
SEIU Represented Full-Time position (37.5 hours/week)
This position is open until filled.
First review of applications will be on February 24, 2026. Any applications received after February 24 will be reviewed and considered as needed, and this posting may close at any time after that date.
Linn County requires on-site work. Remote work is not available.
Linn County Mental Health is looking for an experienced therapist to work with a wide range of consumers entering mental health treatment or experiencing a mental health crisis. The primary work location for this position is in Albany - locations are subject to change depending on program needs.
- Duties include conducting admission screenings and intakes. Must be willing to work as part of an interdisciplinary team and follow documentation requirements in accordance with the Oregon Administrative Rules and department policies and procedures. Having upgraded skills in medical management information system that support clinical work is desired.
- Provide immediate, short-term, and flexible services to individuals experiencing an acute mental health crisis who are at risk of serious adverse outcomes and are not currently enrolled in traditional outpatient services.
This position will respond to individuals who:
- Have co-occurring mental health and substance use challenges
- Are involved in the criminal legal system, including individuals who are incarcerated or participating in diversion, re-entry, or supervision programs
- Experience barriers to accessing traditional services due to mistrust, cognitive limitations, or other challenges
- Are unable to complete traditional intake processes due to symptoms or functional limitations
- Present with high acuity needs beyond the scope of a single crisis outreach
- Require intensive and individualized engagement strategies
- Are frequently in contact with law enforcement, emergency departments, or other high-utilization community systems
- May benefit from creative scheduling and nontraditional approaches to outreach and engagement
Collaborate with crisis team members, agency staff, MH circuit courts, and community partners to coordinate response and ensure safety, continuity, and effective resource linkage.
- Maintain a combination of crisis response contacts and a small ongoing caseload, providing both immediate interventions and continued support as clinically indicated.
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary team members and community partners to develop and implement effective care plans.
This is a non-supervisory position. Lead work and coordination of work of others is not a typical function assigned to this position. Incumbents in this position may provide training and orientation to newly assigned personnel.
Must be able to pass a criminal history check and possess or obtain a valid Oregon driver's license with an acceptable driving record that meets the County's requirements is required.
Linn County does not offer VISA sponsorship. Within three days of hire, applicants will be required to complete the US Department of Homeland Security’s I-9 form confirming authorization to work in the United States. If your employment authorization and documentation is contingent on sponsorship now or in the future, you will not meet Agency employment eligibility standards.
Salary : $6,184 - $7,894