What are the responsibilities and job description for the Mental Health Specialist position at Burke Center?
Location: Mental Health Emergency Center - Lufkin, TX
Position Number: P #165
Schedule: 12-hour shifts (7:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m.) | 7 shifts every 14 days | Rotating weekends & holidays
Salary: $29,228 annually
Position Overview
Burke is seeking a dedicated Mental Health Specialist to join the team at the Mental Health Emergency Center. This role is essential in creating a safe, therapeutic environment for adults experiencing acute mental health crises in the Extended Observation and Crisis Residential Units. The program operates 24/7, and specialists play a key role in monitoring client safety, supporting daily living activities, and assisting with client engagement in treatment services.
Key Responsibilities
Provide continuous safety monitoring for adults in crisis
Intervene appropriately to prevent escalation and ensure client safety
Support client participation in treatment services and therapeutic activities
Assist clients with basic daily living needs (prompting, supervising, and helping as needed)
Observe, document, and report client behavior and condition changes
Transport clients within the community as necessary
Follow all Center and Medicaid standards and procedures
Work under the direct supervision of a Therapist and general supervision of the Clinical Nurse
Qualifications
Education
Required: High school diploma or equivalent
Experience
Preferred: Experience working with adults with mental illness
Licenses & Certifications
Required: Valid Texas driver's license
Special Requirements
Ability to complete SAMA, CPR, First Aid, Defensive Driving, Van Driving, and other required training
Driving record must be insurable under Burke's insurance administrator
Must have reliable transportation
Physical Requirements
Ability to see, hear, speak, walk, and lift up to 50 pounds
Ability to drive a vehicle
Hand and finger dexterity required for documentation and daily tasks
Why Join Burke?
This role offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of individuals in crisis while gaining valuable experience in the behavioral health field. Emotional maturity, strong communication skills, and flexibility make this position both rewarding and impactful.
Salary : $29,228