Community Engagement Specialist-Police

The City of Saco Police Department is seeking a Community Engagement Specialist to join our team. The Community Engagement Specialist plays a critical role in promoting community safety, care and well‑being by providing support during co‑response calls for service, follow‑up outreach, and short‑term case management. Collaborates with partnering agencies including law enforcement, fire and EMS, emergency departments, district attorney’s office, local providers and family supports.

This position delivers crisis assessment, intervention, referrals, consultation and diversion from the criminal justice system.

The salary range for this position is $72,397-$91,395 annually depending on skills and experience

General supervision is provided by the Police Administration with considerable independence of action in accordance with applicable laws and job requirements. Work is evaluated by the Deputy Chief through observation, reports, and results achieved.

• Respond to appropriate calls for service with law enforcement personnel and provide on‑scene behavioral health evaluations, crisis interventions, referrals and follow‑up support.
• Identify and address substance use disorder, mental health issues, homelessness, and issues related to trauma and domestic violence.
• Collaborates with law enforcement, fire and EMS, crisis services, and community organizations to provide person‑centered intervention, assessment, and creation of safety plans – identify support systems, barriers to services, resources, and alternative supportive services.
• Assesses a person’s risk of harm to self or others, builds individualized safety plans with impacted community members, and arranges needed resources to reduce destabilization of the individual, recidivism, and possible arrest and incarceration.
• Collaborate with other first responders, regional law enforcement liaisons, court personnel, state agencies, and external providers to provide services including intervention and diversion.
• Engages in follow‑up care necessary for acute and high‑risk clients to help build relationships, solidify skill building and advocacy for ongoing services and resources.
• Collaborate with law enforcement, review status updates, follow‑up services on active Weapons Restriction Orders.
• Provide outreach and educational support related to Extreme Risk Protection Orders.
• Assess individual needs, identify, and connect service providers and resources to prevent.
• Attend and participate in community events and meetings.
• Collaborate with law enforcement in school crisis response training and crisis intervention training creating an environment of collaboration and learning for all.

• Proficiency with technology, including but not limited to, cell phone, computer, various applications, data collection software, emailing.
• Professional and empathetic communication skills.
• Ability to multi‑task, prioritize work, and perform duties independently.
• Possess thorough documentation skills.
• Ability to engage with others and form rapport.
• Articulate the various modalities and disciplines of the human services system.
• Ability to learn and maintain all required training and certifications.
• Ability to work in a stressful and fast‑paced environment.
• Ability to remain calm during emergency and non‑emergency situations.
• Flexibility to work different shifts; including weekends, holidays, and overnight hours.
• Comply with departmental rules, regulations, policies, and standards.

The ideal candidate will hold a bachelor’s degree in social work, social science, behavioral/mental health, psychology or related field. A Master’s degree is preferred. Must possess a State of Maine license requirement of LCPC, LCPC‑C, LCSW or be eligible and obtain a State of Maine license. Minimum of two (2) years of experience working in related field. Any equivalent combination of education, training, or experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities will be considered.

This job description is not a complete listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the…