Disaster Response and Emergency Behavioral Health Coordinator (Closes 10/20/26)

Summary

The position supports emergency behavioral health and disaster response efforts for the Allegheny County Department of Human Services (DHS), in collaboration with Allegheny County Emergency Services. The incumbent assists the DHS Disaster Response Supervisor by coordinating and carrying out disaster response activities, including adherence to the Incident Command Structure, execution of response protocols, reporting, scheduling, record keeping, and supporting the Emergency Behavioral Health (EBH) functions as needed. The role coordinates both operational and behavioral‑health‑focused support during emergencies, ensuring effective organization, communication, and client centered assistance throughout disaster events. This is a full-time hourly, non-exempt position.

If hired for this position, you would be an employee of our partner agency, Community Family Advocates working onsite at Allegheny County DHS.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

- Organizes, coordinates, and recruits' members for the Emergency Behavioral Health (EBH) Team, ensuring diverse participation from DHS staff, provider agencies, and community partners.

- Hosts quarterly EBH Team meetings and supports professional development through emergency/disaster behavioral health trainings.

- Coordinates supportive services for individuals experiencing crisis or trauma related to disasters or other traumatic events, providing in person, phone, text, and email support.

- Responds to natural or manmade disasters when activated by the Red Cross, Salvation Army, local emergency management coordinators, Allegheny County Emergency Services, DHS Director, or other authorized entities.

- Supports the DHS Disaster Response and Outreach Supervisor in emergency planning and response operations.

- Attends Healthcare Coalition, Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC), Region 13, and VOAD meetings as part of multi-agency coordination.

- Acquires and maintains all required Incident Command Structure (ICS) certifications and follows ICS protocols during response activities.

- Conducts ClientView searches to identify disaster affected individuals active in DHS programs and connects victims with appropriate services and resources.

- Serves as the primary point of contact for disaster response in the absence of the DHS Disaster Response and Outreach Supervisor.

- Maintains the DHS disaster response logs and reports.

- Coordinates essential supplies for disaster-affected individuals, including clothing, food, and hygiene kits.

- Participates in special projects and cross department initiatives as directed by the supervisor.

- Backs up the Safety/Security team regarding on-call coverage and additional coverage days on holidays, on a rotation basis.

Combined Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

- Excellent organizational skills; detail oriented and conscientious about the quality of work.

- Strong computer skills, including proficiency with Microsoft software; skilled in report writing, data collection, and data organization.

- Selfstarter able to work independently, problem solve effectively, and apply knowledge of quality standards, population needs, and Allegheny County operating practices.

- Knowledge of behavioral/mental health conditions and verbal de-escalation techniques preferred

- Knowledge of Allegheny County preferred.

- Ability to multitask, prioritize, and execute tasks in high pressure environments while maintaining a calm, professional demeanor.

- Strong verbal de-escalation skills for high stress or crisis situations.

- Ability to complete Pennsylvania’s Emergency Behavioral Health (EBH) Responder credential within the first year of hire, including:

Psychological First Aid (PFA)

- FEMA Independent Study Courses: IS‑100, IS‑200, IS‑700

- EBH Responder Training Course

- Addictions 101

- PA‑EBH Crisis Counseling Assistance and Training Program (CCP) “Just‑in‑Time Training” (Sections 1–4)

- Proficiency with TRAINPA and familiarity with SAMHSA’s Disaster Technical Assistance Center (DTAC) website and app.

- Ability to complete required Emergency Management and Disaster Response coursework, including:

- IS‑29: Public Information Officer Awareness

- IS‑100: Introduction to the Incident Command System

- G‑191: ICS/EOC Interface (In Person or Virtual)

Supervisory Responsibilities

This job has no supervisory responsibilities.

Additional Responsibilities

From time to time the employee will be required to perform additional tasks and duties as required by the employer. Employee will need to work outside of normal business hours and on weekends and holidays.

Education/Experience Requirements

High School Diploma/equivalent

Individuals with knowledge, skills, and/or experience in social or case work, community outreach, therapy/counseling, trauma informed care, recovery, grief, etc

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations

Act 33 and 34 and FBI clearances.

-AND-

Valid driver’s license and access to a reliable vehicle.