Behavioral Health Specialist - Safety & Security (Pool/PRN)

About the role

The Behavioral Health Specialist (Safety & Security) is responsible for managing and maintaining the safety and well-being of individuals, visitors, and staff within the facility. This role provides front entrance safety and security by greeting and screening all visitors, ensuring compliance with safety protocols, and supporting a welcoming environment. In addition to security responsibilities, the specialist assists with individual care needs, conducts vital signs assessments, and supports daily living activities for both adults and youth. The role also provides 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).

Responsibilities

• Conduct security screening and inventory property of individuals upon admission to the facility
• Provide orientation to the Observation Unit and Residential Crisis Stabilization Unit
• Educate individuals on their rights under DBHDS and DMAS regulations, grievance process, provide expectations, and explain rules and regulations
• Maintain safety of the unit and monitor and document individuals every 15 minutes
• Intervene with escalated individuals using therapeutic techniques for de-escalation and perform restraints or seclusions (if applicable) when needed to ensure the individual's safety and the safety of others
• Complete 1-to-1 on an individual in seclusion or mechanical restraints every 15 minutes for the duration of the event
• Lift, move, and transport individuals, using proper body mechanics or accident prevention
• Assist individuals with activities of daily living to include eating, bathing, and dressing
• Conduct and document individual's vitals and report all questionable results to the RN/Physician attending the individual
• Conduct and document all BAL, urine drug screens and urine pregnancy tests
• Attend court ordered hearings when subpoenaed and be a witness on a petition and provide testimony at court ordered hearing
• Document all services and significant individual interactions in the Electronic Health Record (EHR)
• Maintain and ensure the cleanliness of the facility and designated assigned unit
• Perform light cleaning of interior center, collect soiled linen, and launder individuals clothing when needed
• Complete all required training, attend monthly meetings, and maintain required competencies
• Must be physically able to perform Safe Clinch restraint techniques and CPR, including the ability to move quickly in response to emergent situations

Safety & Security Responsibilities

• Providing safety and security at the facility's front entrance
• Greeting and welcoming patients, families, and visitors in a professional and supportive manner
• Ensuring all visitors are screened (metal detector or handheld wand)
• Monitoring that all personal belongings are placed in lockers prior to entry
• Performs all other duties as assigned

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent
• 1 year of behavioral health experience
• Must be able to perform Safe Clinch patient restraint techniques
• The Company has a mandatory vaccination policy. All successful applicants must be fully vaccinated, including showing proper documentation, or otherwise be exempt pursuant to the Company's exemption process prior to their start date as a condition of employment
• State of Virginia Fingerprint Clearance
• Must be able to pass Virginia Department of Behavioral Health & Developmental Services (VA DBHDS) background check
• Must be able to pass Virginia Department of Social Services (VA DSS) Office of Background Investigations - Central Registry Search
• Must be able to obtain a Food Handlers Card for the State of Virginia
• Must be able to complete company trainings

Physical Requirements

• Safely perform physical interventions (e.g., standing, pivoting, reaching, kneeling, lowering to the floor, and supporting another person's weight)
• Lift, push, pull, or carry up to 50 lbs. occasionally
• Tolerate prolonged walking, standing, and observation in a fast-paced environment
• Work with individuals who may exhibit agitation, aggression, or unpredictable behavior

Preferred Qualifications

• Certified training (Safe Clinch, CPR First Aid, therapeutic options, etc.)
• Completion of CNA or Patient Care Tech program
• Completion of BHT certification

Benefits

Full-time only: Employees (and their families) are offered comprehensive health insurance, including Medical, Dental, Vision, Accident, Critical Illness, and Hospital Indemnity. CHS pays for Basic Life, AD&D, Short and Long-Term Disability. Voluntary Life insurance option is available for employees and their families. Health Savings Accounts (with $1,000 to $2,000 employer contribution depending on plan) and Flexible Spending Accounts (health care and dependent care) are offered. 401k 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 available to eligible employees.

All Employees (Pool, Part-time and Full-time): Employee Assistance Program to help with confidential emotional support, work life solutions, financial solutions, legal assistance, or online support. After 90 days, you are auto enrolled in the 401k Plan.

Pay

Virginia pay range: $21.56 - $25 USD. Actual compensation is based on relevant experience, education, internal equity, and budget.

Shift Differentials

• $2/hr -> Monday-Thursday Nights
• $3/hr -> Friday-Sunday Nights
• $2/hr -> Saturday-Sunday Days