Mental Health Technician - Acute Care - Lake City

For over 50 years, Meridian Healthcare has been a trusted provider of compassionate care for individuals facing mental health and substance use challenges. With service centers across 13 counties in North Central Florida, we are committed to transforming lives and communities through our core values: Hope, Empathy, Accountability, Resilience, and Teamwork (H.E.A.R.T.).

About The Role

As the Mental Health Technician - Central Receiving Services, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the operational excellence and strategic direction of Meridian.

• Greets clients in the screening area: Inventories personal effects and screens for contraband.
• Performs breath alcohol testing and vital signs.
• Obtains urine for on-site drug screen.
• Assures client confidentiality while obtaining their vital signs including weight, heart rate, blood pressure, and height for children.
• Notifies RN on duty of readings outside of identified parameters.
• Applies wristband identification and uses digital camera to provide photo identification.
• Initiates "Flow Sheet" documentation and enters the client's name and key number on all necessary forms.
• Accompanies client to the unit.
• Front Desk/Booth Requirements: Inventory, search, initial vitals, UDS, create/update demographics, picture, planned services, armband, open screening, discharge check for discharge order, visitor check-in, return property, ensure accuracy, call for drivers, Meridian greeter, close out admission from ES.
• Future discharge checklist: Ensure proper discharge in system, discharge paperwork, and follow-up appointment.
• Assures client personal hygiene is met daily: Provides items to clients for hygiene needs (e.g., linens, toothbrushes, toothpaste, shampoo, combs) and assists with or provides direct assistance to clients who have difficulty meeting their personal hygiene needs.
• Assures vital signs are taken and documented at least daily or as ordered by the RN or physician.
• Transports CSU Gainesville and CSU Lake City clients to and from different locations within the state of Florida.

Requirements

• Minimum of 1 year of direct client care. Mental health experience is preferred but not required.
• High School diploma or GED required. Certification as a Nursing Assistant may substitute for the HS/GED requirement.
• Must score at least 65% on general assessment.
• Must have a current Florida Driver’s License with a clean driving record while meeting company insurance requirements.
• Motor Vehicle Record will be reviewed for eligibility: No more than 3 moving violations and/or accidents within the past 3 years and no major violations during the past 5 years.

Benefits

• Vibrant Culture: Friendly, flexible, and engaging work environment with regular celebrations and wellness events.
• Work-Life Balance: Generous PTO for vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
• Comprehensive Benefits: Multiple health insurance options, dental, vision, life insurance, long-term disability, and more.
• Wellness & Support: Employee Assistance Program (EAP), wellness incentives, and mental health resources.
• Retirement & Compensation: Competitive salary and a 403(b) retirement plan with up to 8% company match after 7 years.
• Growth Opportunities: Tuition reimbursement, career advancement pathways, and eligibility for public service loan forgiveness.
• Perks: Discounts on cell phone plans, travel reimbursement, LegalShield, pet insurance, and more.

Pay

$16.32 per hour (Non-CNA, Non-Exempt) | $17.94 per hour (CNA, Non-Exempt)