Behavioral Health Technician

Position Summary:

The Behavioral Health Technician (BHT) supervises program residents under the guidance of the Lead Behavioral Health Technician(s). The BHT acts as a role model for residents, demonstrating professional behaviors and having regular positive interactions that align with WestCares ethical standards. Essential Job Functions include those listed below.

Essential Job Functions:

• Monitors designated residents under the direction of the Program Director, reporting unusual changes as they occur;
• Facilitates mentoring, discipline, safety, and shift/overnight observation of residents;
• Completes support documentation, providing information to third parties as required;
• Utilizes approved crisis intervention techniques to assist with de-escalation of situations, ensuring resident, staff, and visitor safety;
• Implements the behavioral/level system where applicable;
• Participates in 24/7 coverage by working a flexible schedule, properly tracking hours worked, and consistently arriving to scheduled shifts on time;
• Transports residents to work, school, and/or required meetings/appointments as required;
• Monitors resident whereabouts to be sure they remain on the property, or have appropriate paperwork needed to leave the property;
• Assists in the implementation of recreational activities for residents, participating where appropriate;
• Ensures the facility is kept clean and in working order;
• Ensures resident medication is processed upon admission and given on time, in accordance with procedure;
• Documents incidents accurately and in a timely manner, using WestCares Incident Reporting system;
• Embraces and embodies the mission, vision, guiding principles, clinical vision and goals of WestCare Foundation;
• Performs any other duties as assigned.

Certifications/Licensures:

• Relevant certification(s) and/or licensure preferred; Preference will be given certified candidates;
• Active CPR Certification preferred at the time of hire;
• Valid drivers license and the ability to obtain and maintain WestCares vehicle insurance is required.

Education:

• Graduation from an accredited four-year college with a degree in Counseling, Criminal Justice, Social Work, Psychology or other field related to the position is preferred;
• High School Diploma or equivalent is required.

Experience and Competencies:

• At least one (1) year of experience working in a behavioral health setting or similar position required;
• Ability to analyze situations and develop appropriate responses or techniques required;
• Excellent communication skills are required;
• Ability to exercise good judgment and discretion required;
• Ability to work well in a team environment required;
• Adherence to the highest standard of ethical conduct, especially to standards governing confidentiality required;
• Ability to work a flexible schedule in a fast-paced environment;
• Professional appearance and demeanor required;
• Knowledge of the principles, procedures, techniques, trends, and literature related to prevention and substance abuse preferred;
• Must be culturally/linguistically sensitive to populations served.

Working Conditions:

• Work is primarily performed in a residential treatment setting;
• Some outdoor activities travel between multiple locations may be required;
• Regular and prompt attendance is required throughout employment.