Behavioral health technician

Job Details:

Job Location: USE FOR ALL OWENSBORO REQUISITIONS - Owensboro, KY

Position Type: Full Time

Education Level: High School/GED

Salary Range: $17.00 - $21.00 Hourly

Travel Percentage: Occasional

Job Shift: Night

Job Summary:

Day, 2nd, and Night Shift options available. The Acute Care Program serves children and adolescents ages 4–17 who are experiencing emotional, behavioral, or psychiatric challenges. Every child receives individualized, trauma-informed care designed to help them build coping skills, strengthen resilience, and thrive at home, in school, and in the community.

The Behavioral Health Technician (BHT) supervises and provides a safe and therapeutic environment for children and adolescents admitted to RVBH Hospital. They may provide 1:1 instruction utilizing the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) based upon an individualized intervention plans developed by the treatment team for children diagnosed with autism, intellectual disabilities, and emotional and behavioral disorders. BHTs support each patient’s physical, psychological, spiritual, and social well-being through therapeutic interactions guided by person-centered treatment plans and help them work toward achieving a healthier quality of life.

Essential Functions:

• Assess mood and behavior changes and take appropriate action, including modifying behavior or alerting clinical staff.
• Utilize de-escalation techniques to defuse challenging situations.
• Serve as a consistent role model for all patients.
• Work 12-hour rotating shifts, including every other weekend.
• Maintain strict confidentiality regarding patient information.
• Effectively communicate patient status to nursing and leadership teams.
• Provide 1:1 and group instruction in communication, ADLs, behavior, social skills, and academics as outlined by the treatment team.
• Collaborate with the Senior Behavior Analyst (SBA) daily regarding questions, concerns, or suggestions.
• Support skill development aligned with each patient’s individualized treatment plan.
• Assist with new admissions and room searches in coordination with nursing staff while maintaining patient rights.
• Support patient ADLs, including bathing, grooming, and room maintenance.
• Document observations and progress according to policy and report key information to nursing staff.
• Plan and implement structured activities in coordination with Recreation Therapy staff.
• Maintain current certifications TB testing and Safe Crisis Management.
• Comply with all infection control procedures and PPE guidelines.
• Model the mission and values of RiverValley Behavioral Health.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Why Choose RiverValley?

RiverValley is now a Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC), expanding access to high-quality, integrated care in the communities we serve. Join a mission-driven organization committed to clinical excellence, professional growth, and meaningful impact.

We offer:

• Competitive pay
• Comprehensive benefits (health, dental, vision, Telehealth)
• Paid time off + 9 holidays
• Retirement plan options
• Tuition reimbursement + free CEUs
• Clinical supervision
• Wellness & employee assistance programs
• Mileage reimbursement for work related travel
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) - eligible employer

Qualifications:

Education and Experience:

High school diploma or GED required. Valid driver’s license preferred. One (1) year of direct care experience in a similar facility preferred.

Knowledge and Skills:

Strong communication, observation and teamwork skills. Organizational, planning and group facilitation skills. Ability to engage youth positively. Ability to remain calm and supportive in high-stress situations. Basic knowledge of child and adolescent development.