Behavioral Health Aide

Position Summary:

Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey is seeking a Behavioral Health Aide for the Acute Psychological Services Department within Rutgers University Behavioral Health Care. The primary purpose of the Behavioral Health Aide is to provide continuous, direct, one-to-one observation and support for patients experiencing acute mental health symptoms. Assists in maintaining a safe and supportive environment for patients. Among the key duties of this position are the following: Provides constant, uninterrupted one-to-one observation for assigned patients who are at risk for self-harm, harm to others, aggression, or emotional distress. Assists in maintaining a safe and supportive environment by promptly reporting escalating patient behaviors, mood changes, and concerning activities to the clinical care team. Completes and documents accurate, timely, and objective safety observations in accordance with organizational policy, regulatory requirements, and established observation intervals (including every 15-minute checks as assigned). Assists patients with basic activities of daily living, ambulation, meals, hydration, and comfort measures as directed. Assists with patient orientation to the unit environment, reinforcing unit expectations, behavioral standards, safety protocols, and patient rights as directed by clinical leadership. Assists staff with patient visitation by helping maintain a calm environment, observing for mood agitation, conflict, or behavioral triggers during visits, and ensuring adherence to unit visitation rules, hours, and visitor limitations. Conducts environmental safety rounds and immediately reports potential safety hazards.

Minimum Education and Experience:

High school diploma or GED.

City:

Piscataway State:

NJ Physical Demands and Work Environment:

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Ability to work flexible schedules, including nights, weekends, and holidays if needed. Physical ability to stand, walk, and respond quickly during emergencies.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Moderate noise. Subject to unpredictable situations, patient crisis, medical, substance use related, and/or psychiatric. Exposure to bloodborne pathogens that require use of personal protective equipment.

Salary:

($21.04 probation rate; $21.54 job rate; $22.19 two-year rate

Posting Number:

26ST1316