Arkansas Department of Health
4815 W Markham Street
Little Rock, AR 72205
Position Number: 22181830
County: Pulaski City: Little Rock
Posting End Date: 08/14/25
Anticipated Starting Salary: $52,137.07
Division of Health Protection – Injury & Violence Prevention
*CLASSIFIED AS A SAFETY SENSITIVE POSITION*
Additional Preferences:
This position is in a twenty-four (24) hour communications call center. Shift work is required at all times, including holidays and weekends.
Supervisor has the right to change any or all shifts as needed to maintain coverage for the Arkansas Lifeline Call Center.
Hiring Official: A. Yatawara
The mission of the Department of Health is to protect and improve the health and well-being of all Arkansans.
Position Information
Job Series: Counseling and Mental Health – Career Path
Classification: Suicide Prevention Specialist
Class Code: SCM11P
Pay Grade: SGS06
Salary Range: $52,137 - $77,163
Job Summary
The Suicide Prevention Specialist plays a vital role in implementing statewide and regional suicide prevention programs. This position is responsible for providing direct support for suicide prevention strategies.
Primary Responsibilities
Conduct suicide risk screenings and support safety planning across populations including youth, veterans, justice-involved individuals, and rural or underserved communities.
Collaborate with schools, health systems, law enforcement, and community organizations to coordinate prevention and intervention efforts.
Facilitate referral pathways to crisis services, behavioral health treatment, or peer support networks.
Support postvention planning in response to suicide deaths, including grief support and organizational recovery.
Collect and report data related to suicide-related behaviors.
Maintain knowledge of national best practices, trauma-informed approaches, and culturally responsive care models.
Knowledge and Skills
Knowledge of principles of suicide prevention, risk assessment, safety planning, and trauma-informed care.
Knowledge of state and federal laws and regulations and crisis response techniques.
Ability to keep accurate and detailed records and support individuals experiencing distress or crisis while maintaining boundaries and professionalism.
Ability to communicate effectively with diverse communities, follow protocols, and identify client needs.
Skilled in time management, organization, and problem solving.
Minimum Qualifications
At least one (1) year of experience in behavioral health, crisis intervention, suicide prevention, or a related field.
Licensure/Certifications
None
OTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.
The State of Arkansas is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.
