Behavioral Health Specialist - Safety & Security (Part Time, 0.3 Days)

About the role

Connections Health Solutions is a leading provider of immediate‑access behavioral health crisis care. The physician‑led, data‑driven model combines medical and recovery‑oriented treatment to stabilize individuals in crisis and connect them to community‑based resources for ongoing recovery. Recognized by SAMHSA and the National Council for Mental Wellbeing as a national best practice, the organization serves hundreds of thousands of individuals. Its values emphasize acceptance, hope, intentionality, teamwork, and innovation.

Responsibilities

• Manage and maintain the safety and well‑being of individuals, visitors, and staff within the facility.
• Provide front‑entrance safety and security by greeting and screening all visitors, ensuring compliance with safety protocols, and supporting a welcoming environment.
• Assist with individual care needs, conduct vital‑signs assessments, and support daily living activities for adults and youth.
• Provide coverage on the units as a Behavioral Health Specialist, ensuring high standards of care and accurate documentation of services and significant interactions in the Electronic Health Record (EHR).
• Conduct security screening and inventory property of individuals upon admission.
• Provide orientation to the Observation Unit and Residential Crisis Stabilization Unit.
• Educate individuals on their rights under DBHDS and DMAS regulations, grievance process, expectations, and rules.
• Maintain safety of the unit and monitor/document individuals every 15 minutes.
• Intervene with escalated individuals using therapeutic de‑escalation techniques; perform restraints or seclusions when needed.
• Complete 1‑to‑1 observation on individuals in seclusion or mechanical restraints every 15 minutes.
• Lift, move, and transport individuals using proper body mechanics.
• Assist individuals with activities of daily living including eating, bathing, and dressing.
• Conduct and document vitals; report questionable results to the RN/Physician.
• Conduct and document BAL, urine drug screens, and urine pregnancy tests.
• Attend court‑ordered hearings when subpoenaed and provide testimony.
• Document all services and significant interactions in the EHR.
• Maintain cleanliness of the facility and assigned unit; perform light cleaning, collect soiled linen, and launder clothing as needed.
• Complete required training, attend monthly meetings, and maintain competencies.
• Perform Safe Clinch restraint techniques and CPR as required.

Safety & Security Responsibilities

• Provide safety and security at the facility’s front entrance.
• Greet and welcome patients, families, and visitors in a professional and supportive manner.
• Screen all visitors using a metal detector or handheld wand.
• Ensure personal belongings are placed in lockers prior to entry.
• Perform all other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• At least 1 year of behavioral health experience.
• Ability to perform Safe Clinch patient restraint techniques.
• Must be fully vaccinated against COVID‑19 (or obtain exemption per company policy).
• Virginia fingerprint clearance and ability to pass VA DBHDS background check.
• Ability to pass Virginia Department of Social Services background investigation.
• Ability to obtain a Virginia Food Handlers Card (for BHS/RSS positions).
• Physical ability to safely perform interventions, lift/push/pull/carry up to 50 lb occasionally, and tolerate prolonged walking, standing, and observation.
• Ability to work with individuals who may exhibit agitation, aggression, or unpredictable behavior.

Preferred Qualifications

• Certified training in Safe Clinch, CPR, First Aid, and therapeutic interventions.
• Completion of a CNA or Patient Care Tech program.
• Completion of BHT certification.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health insurance (Medical, Dental, Vision, Accident, Critical Illness, Hospital Indemnity).
• Basic Life and AD&D insurance paid by CHS; optional voluntary life insurance.
• Short‑ and long‑term disability coverage.
• Health Savings Account with employer contribution ($1,000–$2,000 depending on plan).
• Flexible Spending Accounts (health care and dependent care).
• 401(k) with company match after 6 months (50 % of deferrals up to 6 % of compensation).
• Generous PTO (starting at 160 hours accrued annually) and 12 recognized company holidays.
• Company‑paid parental leave for eligible employees.
• Employee Assistance Program offering confidential emotional, financial, legal, and online support.
• Automatic enrollment in 401(k) after 90 days.

Pay

Virginia pay range: $21.56 – $25.00 USD per hour.

Shift differentials:

• + $2/hr for Monday‑Thursday nights.
• + $3/hr for Friday‑Sunday