Behavioral Health Technician - Driver

Job Summary

The Behavioral Health Technician (BHT) plays a critical frontline role in supporting clients participating in outpatient substance use disorder treatment programs, including PHP and IOP levels of care. This position ensures the smooth day-to-day operations of client care by providing direct support, monitoring client activity, and assisting clinical staff in implementing treatment plans. The BHT is responsible for maintaining a safe, structured, and recovery-focused environment while fostering accountability and engagement among clients.

Key Responsibilities and Job Duties

• Client Monitoring & Support: Maintain a visible presence throughout the facility and engage with clients in a professional and supportive manner.

• Supervise client behavior to ensure safety and compliance with program rules.

• Monitor and document client attendance in group therapy and other scheduled services.

• Transportation Coordination: Provide client transportation to and from the facility, housing sites, medical appointments, or external services as needed.

• Maintain a transportation schedule and ensure safe and timely arrivals and departures.

• Shop for house groceries and supplies.

• Urinalysis (UA) Collection & Processing: Conduct observed UA drug screens in accordance with facility policies and chain-of-custody procedures.

• Label, log, and store samples properly for lab processing.

• Ensure UA results are documented and communicated appropriately to clinical staff.

• Intake & Orientation Support: Assist with new client intakes, including gathering demographic information, reviewing rules and expectations, and helping clients become oriented to the facility.

• Collaborate with clinical and administrative staff to ensure all necessary paperwork and assessments are completed.

• Group Session Attendance Oversight: Track and document client attendance in group and individual sessions.

• Prompt and redirect clients to scheduled programming as needed.

• Report non-attendance, tardiness, or behavioral concerns to the clinical team.

• Facility Support: Ensure the treatment environment is clean, safe, and welcoming.

• Conduct regular walk-throughs of the facility and housing (if applicable) to monitor for compliance and safety issues.

• Assist with light administrative tasks such as filing, faxing, or supply restocking.

• Communication & Documentation: Maintain accurate and timely progress notes, logs, and incident reports in the electronic health record (EHR).

• Communicate effectively with the treatment team regarding client behavior, concerns, or urgent needs.

• Crisis Prevention & De-escalation: Respond appropriately to behavioral or emotional crises using de-escalation techniques and according to facility protocols.

• Alert clinical or supervisory staff in the event of a safety issue or clinical concern.

Education and/or Work Experience Requirement

• Minimum Qualifications:
• Minimum requirement of a High School Diploma.
• Current Registered Alcohol/Drug Technician (RADT) or in the process of getting a license, must obtain it within the first month of employment.
• One year of experience in a human services setting; strong professional references attesting to high degree of customer service, punctuality, and professionalism.
• Current CPR Certification for Healthcare Providers and First Aid Certification.
• Must be physically and mentally able to assist in an emergency situation.
• Special consideration is given to applicants with previous experience in behavioral health / substance use treatment.
• Computer literate and ability to communicate clearly, both in writing and verbally with clients, administration, the treatment team and family members.
• Clean DMV record and/or meet criteria in accordance with Company insurance policy requirements.
• Valid California Driver's License.
• Preferred Qualifications:
• Associate or Bachelor Degree in Psychology, Sociology, or in Social Science preferred.
• Demonstrates interest and ability to work effectively with the community.
• Competent in working with individuals with diagnosis of chemical dependence.
• Demonstrates ability to use de-escalation techniques, including but not limited to: attentiveness to potential triggers/stressors and early indicators of distress.
• Ability to provide responses that rely on engagement and empathy.
• Ability to model composure through use of calm voice and neutral facial expressions; remaining self-aware of verbal and non-verbal communication.
• Demonstrates ability to adjust verbal and non-verbal communication, prompting for use of known coping skills; etc.

Required Licenses or Certifications

• CPR/First Aid
• CA Driver's License
• SUDRC/RADT

Physical Requirements

• Move throughout the facility and community.
• Repetitive hand movement use and view PC. Use fax, telephone, and copier.
• Sits or stand for long period of time, reach, bend, climb, stoop, and lift to 25lb.
• Read and write, verbal and written communication, time management, and interpersonal skills.
• Prioritize, meet deadlines, and use sound judgment.
• Have reliable transportation, clean driving record, and car insurance as required by the state.

Attendance Standards

• Consistently be at work and communicate appropriately any attendance issues with supervisor as per policy.
• Consistently at their workstation at the appropriately scheduled time.
• Does not abuse breaks and/or departure times.

Language Skills

• Has the ability to read and comprehend simple instructions, short correspondence, and memos.
• Has the ability to write complex correspondence.
• Has the ability to effectively present information in one-on-one and small group situations to patients, visitors, and other employees of the organization.

Reasoning Ability

• Has the ability to solve practical complex problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists.
• Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form.

Compensation

$20.00 - $25.00 per hour