About the role
Pay: $22.00 to $29.00 per hour
Description
Behavioral Health Technician
Status:
Non Exempt
Department:
Residential
Compensation Grade: $22 - $29
Rate of Pay & Frequency:
Biweekly
Direct Supervisor:
Residential Services Manager
Schedule:
Wed - Sun; 2pm - 10:30pm
Job Summary:
The Behavioral Health Technician (BHT) plays a vital role in maintaining a safe, structured, and supportive residential treatment environment. BHTs provide case management services, enforce program norms, ensure patient safety, support clinical and administrative procedures, and assist patients in navigating their recovery journey. Duties include intake, detox monitoring, medication observation, documentation, transportation, and patient engagement. BHTs are responsible for upholding residential rules, handling emergencies per protocol, and supporting each patient’s treatment plan with professionalism and empathy. BHTs wear scrubs, non-slip closed-toe shoes, and a company badge while on duty.
Essential Functions:
Conduct intakes, orientations, room assignments, and property searches
Administer UAs, track results, and document using lab interface systems
Monitor detox symptoms, complete CIWA assessments, take vitals, and conduct 72-hour checks
Support medication management (count, document, observe self-administration, and track refills)
Implement patient policies related to phones, passes, visitors, and grievances
Facilitate daily routines including groups, walks, meals, chores, and life skills activities
Provide transportation for appointments, meetings, and transitions of care
Complete discharge procedures, including documentation and turnover tasks
Ensure facility cleanliness and conduct room, perimeter, and contraband checks
Respond to emergencies (e.g., overdose, suicide ideation, violence) using proper protocols
Practice HIPAA compliance and document in the Electronic Health Record (EHR)
Utilize motivational interviewing and de-escalation techniques with patients in crisis
Uphold professional boundaries and ARS ethical standards
Other duties as assigned
Requirements
High School Diploma, GED, or higher
Valid Driver’s License; clean driving record
Ability to lift 50 lbs and work flexible shifts, including weekends
Current CPR/First Aid certification, negative TB test, and physician health clearance
Experience working with substance use and co-occurring populations preferred
Knowledge of Social Model Recovery, therapeutic communities, and correctional cultures preferred
Must be able to pass a background check and (preferred) obtain CDCR clearance