Mental Health Technician - Day or Night Shift Available

About the role

The Mental Health Technician (MHT), also known as a Patient Care Assistant (PCA), provides direct patient care, behavioral support, and daily supervision to children, adolescents, and young adults with medical, developmental, and behavioral needs.

Responsibilities

• Provide patient care that promotes safety, dignity, and emotional well-being in a pediatric setting.
• Supervise and monitor children and adolescents to maintain structure, consistency, and engagement.
• Observe, record, and report changes in behavior, emotional state, or medical condition.
• Absorb and assist patients with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as hygiene, dressing, feeding, and mobility.
• Support individualized behavioral and nutrition plans through positive reinforcement and encouragement.
• Participate in recreational, therapeutic, and educational activities designed to build independence and self-esteem.
• Utilize approved de-escalation techniques to safely manage crisis situations.
• Collaborate with nurses, therapists, dietitians, and educators to ensure a holistic, child-centered approach to care.
• Maintain detailed documentation, ensure confidentiality, and comply with infection control and safety policies.
• Serve as a positive role model demonstrating patience, compassion, and professional behavior.

Qualifications

• Education: High School Diploma or equivalent (required); AA/BA/BS in Psychology, Education, Child Development, Behavioral Health, or related field (preferred).
• Experience: Minimum 1 year of experience in a pediatric, behavioral health, or hospital setting (preferred); Experience supporting patients with developmental disabilities, behavioral challenges, or weight management needs highly valued.
• Licensure / Certification: BLS/CPR certification required upon hire; Completion of de-escalation training (required or obtained within 30 days of hire); Current TB test within 14 days of hire and annually thereafter.

Nexus Core Values (GOPTIC)

• Genuine – Operate with integrity and build trust among patients, families, and colleagues.
• Ownership – Take personal responsibility for actions and outcomes.
• Positivity – Approach challenges with optimism and compassion.
• Teamwork – Collaborate to achieve our mission and support one another.
• Innovation – Seek better, more effective ways to help patients and families.
• Compassion – Always put our patients first; our mission begins and ends with them.