Behavioral Health Technician / Nursing Assistant

Hybrid Behavioral Health Technician / Nursing Assistant (Nurse Apprentice)

Position Title:

Behavioral Health Technician / Nursing Assistant (Nurse Apprentice Program)

Department:

Operations Reports To:

Health Technician Supervisor Employment Type:

Part-Time or Full-Time, Hybrid Clinical Role Position Summary The Behavioral Health Technician / Nursing Assistant (Nurse Apprentice) is a transitional clinical support position designed for individuals pursuing nursing licensure. This role provides hands-on experience in both behavioral health and nursing operations within a substance use disorder and behavioral health treatment environment. The employee will support patient care, safety, and clinical operations while receiving structured exposure to nursing practices, regulatory standards, and interdisciplinary treatment planning. The position serves as a bridge between direct patient care and nursing responsibilities, allowing the employee to develop clinical knowledge and skills under the supervision of licensed nursing staff while maintaining compliance with all applicable regulations and facility policies. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Behavioral Health Technician Responsibilities Conduct patient safety rounds and wellness checks according to facility protocols. Assist with patient admissions, orientations, and intake procedures. Collect and document urine drug screens and breathalyzer testing as directed. Monitor patient behavior and report concerns to clinical and nursing staff. Provide support during group transitions, meals, recreational activities, and appointments. Assist in maintaining a safe, therapeutic, and structured treatment environment. Document patient observations and incidents accurately and timely. Participate in crisis intervention and de-escalation efforts under supervision. Ensure compliance with facility policies regarding patient safety and confidentiality. Nursing Assistant Responsibilities Obtain and document patient vital signs, including blood pressure, pulse, respirations, temperature, oxygen saturation, and weight. Assist nursing staff with routine patient care activities as assigned. Prepare patients for nursing evaluations and assessments. Support nursing staff with clinical documentation and chart organization. Observe medication administration passes for educational and training purposes. Assist with inventory and organization of clinical supplies and equipment. Escort patients to nursing appointments and assessments when needed. Clinical Learning and Professional Development Under the supervision of licensed nursing personnel, the Nurse Apprentice will: Observe nursing assessments and patient evaluations. Participate in passive learning opportunities related to: COWS (Clinical Opiate Withdrawal Scale) assessments CIWA-Ar (Clinical Institute Withdrawal Assessment for Alcohol) assessments Detoxification protocols Medication administration processes Clinical documentation standards Patient assessment techniques Gain familiarity with Joint Commission (JCAHO) standards and accreditation requirements. Learn principles of regulatory compliance, quality improvement, and patient safety. Attend staff meetings, training sessions, and educational opportunities as assigned. Develop professional competencies necessary for future nursing practice. Qualifications Required High school diploma or GED. Enrollment in an accredited nursing program or active pursuit of nursing licensure. Current CPR/BLS certification or ability to obtain within 30 days of hire. Ability to maintain patient confidentiality and professional boundaries. Strong communication and interpersonal skills. Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced behavioral health environment. Preferred Previous experience in behavioral health, substance use treatment, healthcare, or direct patient care. Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification. Knowledge of addiction treatment and behavioral health populations. Physical Requirements Ability to stand and walk for extended periods. Ability to respond appropriately in emergency situations. Ability to perform physical patient monitoring and safety checks throughout shifts. Work Environment This position operates in a behavioral health and substance use disorder treatment setting. Employees may interact with patients experiencing withdrawal symptoms, mental health crises, emotional distress, and behavioral challenges. Adherence to safety protocols, infection control standards, and patient confidentiality requirements is essential. Career Development Opportunity This role is designed as a developmental pathway for future nurses. Employees will receive structured exposure to nursing operations, patient assessment processes, regulatory standards, and interdisciplinary care coordination to support their transition into licensed nursing practice.