Behavioral Health Technician

General Description of the Position:

This position provides supports working directly with people who are experiencing high mental health needs providing them with opportunities to overcome their behavioral challenges. You will assist people to reach their goals and dreams by providing education, role modeling and encouragement. You will also be responsible to assist the person throughout their day across all environments that they participate in. You will work closely with the person, the family, external case management, contracted psychologist, and/or psychiatrist. Additionally, this position works with and supports the person's team by modeling, coaching and teaching skills that will improve their ability to be effective in supporting the person to achieve success.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree or higher degree required, preferably in psychology, social work, human services, social services or related field from an accredited college or university. Relative experience may be considered in place of degree. 
• Ability to be credentialed and then execute those skills (Sensory Processing, ABA, CPI, Autism Spectrum). 
• Additional experience preferred in working with people who have developmental disabilities, and/or other disabilities with significant mental health needs.
• Experience in and knowledge of behavior consultation, crisis intervention, the effects of medications on behavior; teaching is also a plus.
• Flexibility in work schedule and ability to adjust quickly to sudden workload changes; must be willing to work various shifts including weekends, evenings and be on-call when unexpected needs arise.

Additional Qualifications:  

• Strong relationships, interpersonal, facilitation and communication skills.
• Good time management.
• Good analysis and problem-solving skills in the area of behavior support.
• Excellent critical thinking skills.
• Ability to understand the disability and what that person is trying to communicate through their behavior.
• Have a sense of resiliency and self-care.
• Exercise reflective skills.
• Agency Requirements During Orientation Period:
• CPR, first aid
• Medication certifications (as applicable to the area)
• New Employee Induction and Orientation
• Positive Behavioral Supports training
• Crisis Prevention Intervention (CPI)
• Human Rights and Abuse/Neglect/Exploitation training
• Health, safety and sanitation training
• Other training, as applicable

Essential Functions:

• Organized and efficient in completing job responsibilities, assertive, and confident.
• Adaptable to change, self-starter and positive.  Strong assessment skills desired.  
• Ability to see a broad perspective and participate as a team player.  
• Follow plans as written and designed by the Behavioral Support Specialists.
• Provide direct supports for adults with disabilities who exhibit high behavioral needs.
• Provide input for changes with a specific person’s program and the general program.

Responsibilities:

1. Contribute to a culture of safety by following established health and safety procedures.
2. Follow work schedule as assigned as well as exhibit flexibility to changing situations and be able to adapt, as necessary.
3. Drive people to and from work, day services or to various community activities as indicated on the person’s individual support plan. 
4. Responsible for low-level vehicle maintenance of assigned agency vehicles, (check oil, walk-around inspections, clean); be able to drive at night and in the day in varying weather and road conditions ensuring for the safety of passengers.
5. If applicable to the person, assist people with personal hygiene and care, possibly in bathing, brushing teeth, etc.
6. Comply with Black Hills Works, Health Department, and Administrative Rules of SD, (ARSD) rules and regulations.
7. Build relationships by facilitating friendships, partnerships, and personal and professional relationships.
8. Lifting requirements may exceed 50 pounds during medical and safety emergency situations.
9. Depending on the needs of the person, may push or pull a person in their wheelchair and/or use proper lifting techniques with assistance from a mechanical lift. 
10. Instruct and assist people at work and home activities; may include carrying groceries, cleaning, vacuuming, sweeping and laundry.
11. Medication management, if applicable to the individual. Follow the six rights to ensure proper medication administration. 
12. Maintain professional boundaries and display patience between team members, families and individuals served. 
13. Maintain confidentiality in all aspects of the job.
14. Ensure the safety and well-being of the individual(s) served at all time through Black Hills Works’ practices and basic assurances. 
15. Be a positive mentor and a coach for new team members to ensure their job success.
16. Look for ways to promote and improve the quality of services. 
17. Accurately complete, maintain, and submit all documentation and written records, as required.
18. Assist individuals with self-advocacy skills and promote independence.
19. Adhere to Black Hills Works Power of B standards – Be Respectful of Others, Be Accountable, Be Your Best, Be Supportive.

Black Hills Works Inc. is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.