Mental Health Security Technician

Job Summary

Freedom Behavioral Hospital of Greenville is seeking a dedicated, observant, and compassionate Mental Health Security Technician (MHST) to join our behavioral health team. The MHST serves a dual role by providing direct patient care while maintaining a safe and secure therapeutic environment for patients, staff, and visitors. This position supports nursing staff, assists with patient care activities, performs safety and contraband searches, monitors patient behavior, and ensures security procedures are followed throughout the facility.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Patient Care Responsibilities

• Provide direct patient care and support under the supervision of licensed nursing staff.
• Assist patients with activities of daily living (ADLs), including hygiene, grooming, feeding, oral care, and mobility assistance.
• Monitor patient behaviors and promptly report changes in condition to nursing staff.
• Obtain and document vital signs as assigned.
• Assist with patient admissions, discharges, and belongings inventories.
• Facilitate therapeutic and recreational activities as assigned.
• Utilize therapeutic communication and de-escalation techniques when interacting with patients.
• Assist with meals, nutrition monitoring, and patient comfort needs.
• Maintain a therapeutic and recovery-focused environment.

Security Responsibilities

• Maintain security of all entrances, exits, and patient care areas.
• Conduct patient, visitor, and staff security screenings utilizing approved procedures.
• Perform metal detector wand screenings and pat searches when appropriate.
• Conduct contraband searches of patient rooms and treatment areas.
• Monitor patient movement throughout the facility and maintain patient custody at all times.
• Perform safety rounds and environmental inspections.
• Assist nursing staff during behavioral emergencies and crisis situations.
• Respond appropriately to alarms, security concerns, and safety incidents.
• Document and report security concerns, incidents, and policy violations.

General Responsibilities

• Maintain confidentiality in accordance with HIPAA regulations.
• Demonstrate professionalism, respect, and teamwork.
• Follow hospital policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements.
• Attend required meetings, trainings, and competency evaluations.
• Maintain a positive attitude and commitment to patient-centered care.
• Perform other duties as assigned by leadership.

Qualifications

Education

• High School Diploma or GED required.

Preferred Experience

• Previous experience in behavioral health, psychiatric care, healthcare security, corrections, law enforcement, military, CNA, or related healthcare field preferred.
• Experience working with psychiatric, geriatric, or substance abuse populations preferred.

Certifications

• CPR Certification required (or obtained during orientation).
• Behavioral Management/CPI Certification required (or obtained during orientation).
• Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification preferred but not required.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Strong observation and situational awareness skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to remain calm and professional during crisis situations.
• Strong conflict resolution and de-escalation skills.
• Basic computer proficiency.
• Ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary team.
• Understanding of psychiatric and behavioral health populations preferred.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, and patrol for extended periods.
• Ability to lift, push, pull, and assist patients as needed.
• Ability to safely intervene during behavioral emergencies utilizing approved techniques.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced psychiatric environment.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Freedom Behavioral provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. This policy applies to all aspects of employment, including recruitment, hiring, promotion, compensation, and training.