Mental Health Technician – Full Time Nights

About the Role

Oceans Behavioral Hospital Hammond is dedicated to assisting adults and seniors facing mental health challenges such as anxiety and depression. Through advanced and evidence-based therapy, we aim for sustainable recovery with a variety of inpatient and outpatient counseling and treatment solutions. As a Mental Health Technician, also referred to as a Behavioral Health Technician (BHT), you will play a vital role in supporting nursing staff, ensuring patient safety, and maintaining a therapeutic environment. Your efforts help deliver compassionate care while upholding hospital and regulatory standards.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Comply with all hospital policies, procedures, and fulfill federal, state, and Joint Commission requirements.
• Demonstrate supportive approaches, utilizing de-escalation or therapeutic interventions for patients exhibiting difficult behavior.
• Conduct inventory of patient belongings, confiscating and securing unauthorized items, and performing regular unit safety checks.
• Maintain adherence to infection prevention, practicing standard precautions, and continually participate in required training sessions.
• Administer patient care activities as directed by licensed nurses, including vital signs, monitoring intake and output, documenting nutrition, and supporting dietary needs based on restrictions or allergies.
• Assist patients with daily personal tasks such as laundry, meals, bathroom use, and mobility, particularly those with physical challenges or higher risk.
• Adapt care activities to fit each patient’s age, culture, disability, and individual sensitivities.
• Accurately record patient observations, vital data, behavioral incidents, and significant events in the patient record, ensuring data is timely and complete.
• Keep nursing staff informed regarding the completion of assigned tasks, ongoing concerns, and ensure transparent handover for continuity of care.
• Perform additional duties and projects as requested by nursing supervisors.

Required Qualifications

• Completion of high school or an equivalent qualification is required.
• CNA certification or minimum 6 months of experience in direct patient care within a healthcare environment.
• Proficiency in reading, writing, and understanding both verbal and written instructions.
• Strong communication abilities with diverse populations, leveraging sensitivity regarding age, disability, and cultural background.
• Exhibit empathy, respect, and personal integrity; must be in sound mental and physical health.
• Ability to function under close supervision and seamlessly integrate into a team setting.
• Successful completion of CPR certification and an employer-approved behavioral de-escalation program.

Employee Benefits

• Coverage options for medical, dental, and vision insurance, effective the first day of the month following 30 days of employment.
• 401(k) retirement plan with discretionary company match.
• Tuition reimbursement to support further study.
• Daily pay options for flexible access to earnings.
• Paid time off to support work-life balance.
• Competitive compensation aligned with the market.
• Short-term and long-term disability insurance.
• Life insurance for added security.
• Employee assistance program offering additional support resources.