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Crisis Acting Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Crisis Worker

Chicago, IL · On-site

$26.50 - $30/hr

As a Crisis Worker, you will respond to mental health crises in the Uptown, Lakeview, and North Center communities, acting as an alternative to or in conjunction with hospitalization or police ...

As a Crisis Worker, you will respond to mental health crises on the South Side of Chicago, acting as an alternative to or in conjunction with hospitalization or police response. Each shift, you will ...

As a Crisis Worker, you will respond to mental health crises on the South Side of Chicago, acting as an alternative to or in conjunction with hospitalization or police response. Each shift, you will ...

Crisis Worker, Part Time

Chicago, IL · On-site

$27 - $30.58/hr

As a Crisis Worker, you will respond to mental health crises on the South Side of Chicago, acting as an alternative to or in conjunction with hospitalization or police response. Each shift, you will ...

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Crisis Acting information

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$13

$25

$44

How much do crisis acting jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for crisis acting in the United States is $25.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.43 and $28.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a crisis actor?

Crisis actors are individuals who participate in emergency response drills or simulations, portraying victims, witnesses, or bystanders to help train first responders and improve preparedness for real-life emergencies. They are hired by organizations such as government agencies, schools, or emergency services to make training exercises more realistic. These actors help responders practice communication, medical treatment, and crisis management in controlled environments. While the term 'crisis actor' has also been misused in conspiracy theories, legitimate crisis actors play an important role in public safety training.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a crisis actor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Crisis Actor, you need strong acting ability, improvisational skills, and adaptability, with experience in theater or simulation-based training being highly beneficial. Familiarity with role-play protocols, scenario scripts, and sometimes simulation software is often required, especially in training environments for emergency responders. Professionalism, emotional resilience, and effective communication are key soft skills for portraying distress realistically while collaborating with trainers and participants. These skills ensure realistic simulations that enhance emergency preparedness and support effective training outcomes.

What are some common challenges crisis actors face during training exercises, and how can they effectively prepare?

Crisis actors often face the challenge of maintaining realism under pressure and adapting quickly to evolving scenarios during emergency simulations. They must be prepared to respond authentically to unexpected changes while working closely with first responders and exercise coordinators. To prepare effectively, crisis actors should familiarize themselves with emergency protocols, practice improvisational skills, and participate in briefing sessions to understand exercise objectives and safety guidelines. Collaboration and clear communication with the simulation team are essential for delivering a valuable training experience.

What is the difference between Crisis Acting vs Emergency Response Training?

AspectCrisis ActingEmergency Response Training
CredentialsTypically no formal certifications required; some courses may offer certificatesOften requires certifications like CPR, First Aid, or FEMA courses
Work EnvironmentFilm sets, training simulations, or live drillsReal-world emergencies, drills, or community training sessions
Employer & IndustryFilm, theater, training agenciesGovernment agencies, healthcare, safety organizations
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding acting roles in crisis scenariosLearning how to respond to emergencies effectively

While crisis acting involves performing in simulated or staged crisis scenarios often for training or entertainment, emergency response training focuses on preparing individuals to handle real emergencies through certified courses. Both roles are related to safety and crisis management but serve different purposes and environments.

How do you become a crisis actor?

To become a crisis actor, individuals typically need acting experience, such as training or background in theater or film, and may be recruited through casting calls or agencies that specialize in simulation roles. Some roles require understanding of emergency procedures and the ability to portray realistic reactions in controlled environments. Certification is not usually required, but familiarity with safety protocols can be beneficial.
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What cities are hiring for Crisis Acting jobs?

Cities with the most Crisis Acting job openings:

What states have the most Crisis Acting jobs?

States with the most job openings for Crisis Acting jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Crisis Acting jobs?

For Crisis Acting jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Crisis Acting job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 89% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 65% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 33% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,410 per year, or $25.7 per hour.

Crisis Worker-Adult Community Mobile Crisis

Philadelphia, PA • On-site

$18.50 - $23.50/hr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

ABOUT PATH, INC.:

PATH (People Acting to Help) Inc. is a comprehensive Community Behavioral Health and Intellectual Disability Center. We offer a wide of array of services and supports to meet the needs of our community in Northeast Philadelphia. PATH regularly achieves the highest levels of accreditation including a 5 Star Provider Rating by CBH, Philadelphia’s Managed Care Entity, and recognition and awards related to our high-quality, innovative programs and staff accomplishments and contributions.

Our Mission? To Help Individuals Achieve a More Independent and Fulfilling Life.

WHY WORK AT PATH?

A Career with Meaning

At PATH, our team members are at the heart of what we do, so we work hard to give them the best reasons to work here — and to stay here.

In addition to the satisfaction of making a real difference in people's lives, we offer:

•             Competitive pay

•             Annual increases

•             Performance and longevity bonuses 

•             Comprehensive benefits package for staff and family

•             Generous number of paid holidays, vacation, sick, and personal time

•             No-cost pension plan

•             Ongoing professional development opportunities, including licensure supervision 

•             Cutting-edge treatment facility, resources, and treatment modalities

•             Opportunities for advancement and growth within the organization

•             Eligible for the Federal Public Student Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program

•             Referral bonus for referring a friend who accepts employment

JOB SUMMARY:

To promote the mission of PATH to help individuals achieve a more independent and fulfilling life by being an effective team member.  To work as a team member to provide crisis intervention, support, safety plans and linkages to youth and families in Northeast Philadelphia, Region 1.  The program operates 365 days/year, 24 hours/day. Hours for this shift is Tuesday through Saturday, 4:00pm - 12:30am. 

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree from an accredited college or university in a human services field, i.e., social work, counseling, psychology, criminal justice
  • 1 year experience in a Behavioral Health system
  • Ability to use an Electronic Health Record
  • Good interpersonal and communication skills
  • Active Driver's License and vehicle required

SPECIFIC DUTIES: 

  • Provide crisis assessment, intervention, education, and support in person, with assigned team member, within a designated time frame to referrals received by DBH/CBH.
  • Utilize approved evidence-based practices and tools when providing crisis assessment and intervention, including SAMHSA crisis intervention guidelines and resolution models.
  • Assure all interventions are person-centered and driven by the individual and their family/supports.
  • Obtain from the family/supports, if release of information allows, an understanding of the events that led to the crisis from everyone’s perspective.
  • If the individual is currently receiving services, collaborate with other treatment providers, if release of information allows.  
  • Assist the individual in obtaining and maintaining culturally appropriate basic living needs including but not limited to housing, food, medical care, recreation, and education through linkage to resources and additional supports. 
  • To provide follow-up care and/or transfer to other levels of care from the moment that an assessment is completed, and the plan has been developed.
  • Assure appointments are scheduled at a time and place convenient for the individual.
  • To complete or assist others in completing involuntary commitment petitions.
  • To arrange and follow through with voluntary or involuntary hospitalization admissions.
  • To follow all procedures regarding the initiation of a commitment.
  • Link the individual to the CRC or other 24/7 crisis staff and remain with them until the connection and collaboration is completed.
  • Develop with the individual and their family/supports, if available, a safety/ crisis plan obtaining everyone’s perspective, strengths and ideas.
  • Be knowledgeable of local community resources and services and provide care coordination.
  • Provide up to 72 hours of intervention by scheduling follow up appointments at a time convenient for the individual, which includes evening and weekend appointments in the home and community.
  • Other duties as assigned.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:  

Minimal in nature. 


We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.