CRISIS INTERVENTION UNIT LEAD- Police Department

Description

Crisis Intervention Unit Lead

Summary:   The Crisis Intervention Unit (CIT) Lead is performed under the direct supervisor of the Chief of Police. CIT is responsible for the planning, development, implementation, and overall leadership of the Wheeling Police Department’s CIT program. This role includes the coordination of community partnerships, supervision of CIT personnel (including uniformed officers, peer responders, and victim advocates), and continuous enhancement of CIT services to meet the evolving needs of the community.

Key Accountabilities: (key accountabilities are the primary responsibilities an employee must perform, with or without reasonable accommodation.)

• Program Leadership & Coordination
  • Provide strategic leadership for the CIT Unit and maintain effective relationships with partner agencies and community stakeholders.
  • Lead, schedule, and facilitate regular (quarterly or as needed) CIT Unit meetings.
  • Establish and sustain collaborative networks that foster safety and support for individuals experiencing mental health or substance use challenges.
• Training & Professional Development
  • Develop and execute 40-hour CIT training programs for department personnel to ensure a qualified pool of CIT officers.
  • Organize specialized and advanced CIT-related training to meet emerging community policing needs.
  • Recruit, train, and mentor qualified CIT instructors from law enforcement, allied agencies, and subject matter experts.
  • Maintain and continuously update all training materials (e.g., presentations, lesson plans, training aids) in accordance with DCJS and CIT International standards.
  • Ensure compliance with DCJS regulations, including securing partial in-service credit approval.
  • Maintain all classroom equipment and materials in good working order.
• Monitoring, Reporting & Evaluation
  • Track and analyze CIT participation across agencies and maintain accurate training records.
  • Collect, compile, and report evaluation feedback from CIT training participants.
  • Prepare and submit required financial and programmatic reports, including grant-related documentation.
  • Create or revise policies, procedures, and Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) related to the CIT program.
• Funding & Resource Development
  • Identify and pursue local, state, and federal grant opportunities to support CIT operations.
  • Cultivate and maintain local funding streams to sustain and expand CIT initiatives.
• Community Engagement & Representation
  • Maintain strong working relationships with key mental health organizations, including Mental Health America and the WV CIT Coalition.
  • Serve as liaison to community groups, local news organizations, and advocacy networks to educate the public about the CIT program.
  • Represent WPD and the CIT program at local, regional, state, and national meetings, conferences, and leadership boards.
  • Develop and deliver public presentations related to CIT programming and law enforcement partnerships.
  • Nominate team members for local, state, and national recognition to highlight excellence in service.
• Operational Duties
  • Coordinate efforts between law enforcement and mental health/substance use service providers to ensure appropriate referrals and support.
  • Collaborate with local 911 dispatch centers to improve emergency response protocols.
  • Support and consult with uniform patrol supervisors and CIT officers on duty.
• Perform other duties as assigned in support of the CIT program’s mission.
• Ability to manage multidisciplinary teams and foster collaborative environments.

Skills:

• Crisis Management
• Problem-solving
• Active listening
• Empathy and compassion
• Cultural competence

Work Conditions:

May require occasional evening or weekend work, including on-call duties.

Qualifications

Qualifications:

• Master’s degree (MSW) in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited institution.
• Minimum five (5) years of professional experience in social work, with a focus on community practice, criminal justice, or behavioral health.  
• Demonstrated expertise in program development and project management.
• CIT Coordinator Certification (must obtain within sixty (60) days of hire).

Salary Range:  Salary Range: $55,000 – $60,000 annually (Full-time, with potential on-call responsibilities).

Salary : $55,000 - $60,000