Mental Health Screener

Req #: 0000253361 | Per Diem, Evening shift | $34.43 per hour

About the role

Are you passionate about making a critical difference for individuals experiencing psychiatric emergencies? At RWJBarnabas Health, our Emergency Screening teams work collaboratively to provide high-quality, compassionate crisis intervention when our communities need it most. By delivering rapid assessments and connecting vulnerable patients to the right level of care, our screeners serve as a vital lifeline. We view our Mental Health Screeners as a crucial component of our care plan, redefining the patient experience through teamwork, empathy, and excellence.

Responsibilities

• Screen adults and children experiencing psychiatric emergencies at PES, NPC, or WSC to determine the most appropriate, least restrictive level of care.
• Consult with psychiatrists, medical staff, and emergency room teams to formulate safe patient dispositions.
• Answer the 24-hour crisis "Hotline" immediately to provide rapid emergency responses and guidance.
• Assess patients for voluntary or involuntary hospitalization and accurately complete all state screening and legal commitment documents.
• Assist mobile screeners by gathering patient data and prioritizing community outreaches based on acuity.
• Collaborate with medical units, voluntary psychiatric floors, and affiliated emergency rooms to manage psychiatric consultations.
• Complete thorough clinical documentation in AVATAR, including assessments, suicide risk evaluations, and internal handoffs.
• Provide vital consultation to community agencies and hospitals regarding the management of emergency psychiatric patients.

Qualifications

To be considered for this opportunity, you must meet one of the following education and experience requirements:

• BA/BS degree in a related field with three (3) years of prior experience in a psychiatric setting, including at least one (1) year in a crisis setting; OR
• Master’s degree plus one (1) year of post-master’s experience in a psychiatric setting; OR
• Currently enrolled in a Master’s program with two (2) years of prior psychiatric setting experience, including at least one (1) year in a crisis setting.

Requirements

• Must possess and maintain a valid N.J. State Driver’s License.
• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification required within three (3) months of hire.
• Eligible to obtain a Temporary Screening Certification Number upon hire (preferred).
• Must obtain a permanent Screening Certification Number within one (1) year of hire.

Schedule

• Per Diem Evening Shift (variable shifts, generally 3:00 PM – 11:30 PM or 11:00 AM – 11:30 PM).
• A minimum of two (2) shifts per month are required.
• Mandatory rotation of one (1) winter holiday and one (1) summer holiday.

Pay

$34.43 per hour. The compensation offered to the candidate selected for the position will depend on several factors, including the candidate's educational background, skills, and professional experience.