Mental Health Technician

Mental Health Technician – Youth Behavioral HealthLocation: Osceola Youth Center, Evart, MIJob Type: Full-Time Compensation: $20 per hourShift: VariousSign-On Bonus: $3,000 ($1,500 paid after 90 days of employment and an additional $1,500 paid after 6 months of employment)About Youth Opportunity & Osceola Youth CenterYouth Opportunity is a nationally recognized leader in residential and behavioral health treatment for at-risk youth. Osceola Youth Center in Evart, Michigan is a trauma-informed Youth Center serving boys ages 10 to 17 requiring behavioral stabilization. The program merges clinical therapy, education, life skills training, and expressive recreation to support emotional growth in a structured setting.Youth typically remain in care for 6 to 9 months, engaging in individual, family, and group therapy; restorative justice; victim-impact awareness; and pre-vocational preparation. Programming in small group units encourages family partnership and successful return to the community.BenefitsMedical, dental, and vision insurance401(k) with up to 4% employer match with Immediate VestingPaid time off (PTO) and holidays – earn 4 hours of PTO every pay periodFree RX delivery on most medicationsTuition reimbursement and professional developmentRobust Employee Assistance ProgramSupportive, mission-driven work environmentWhy Join Youth Opportunity?Be part of a team making a difference in the lives of vulnerable youthGain experience in a growing field of youth mental health and residential careWork in a secure, structured, and supportive treatment environmentDevelop your skills through training, mentorship, and advancement opportunitiesKey ResponsibilitiesThis direct care position supervises a group of 7-10 youth through activities during waking and non-waking hours. While unobtrusively providing external controls necessary to ensure safety and security, Mental Health Technicians guide and teach youth the internal controls needed to live responsibly when and where external controls are relaxed.Supervise the activities of a group of youths, maintaining knowledge of the whereabouts of all group membersComply with procedures on movement, physical security, contraband, head counts, and reportingProvide a safe, secure environment using group counseling techniques and positive disciplineRepresent each youth's needs and accomplishments to the treatment teamConduct group problem-solving meetings and daily check-ins with youthAssist teachers with transferring classroom lessons to living unitsPromote and assist with daily activities, ensuring participation and follow-throughDocument daily shift activities and complete required reportsMake referrals for special needs or medical evaluation as necessaryOther Duties IncludeParticipate in training and development activities as requiredReport incidents or concerns involving youth or staff relationshipsPerform other duties as assignedRequirementsEducation:High school diploma or equivalent requiredTwo years of college coursework in social or human service field preferredExperience:Two years' experience working with youth preferredSkills:Strong verbal skills to communicate effectively with youthGroup counseling and leadership skillsAbility to think independently and distinguish cause from effectCertification in First Aid, CPR, and crisis intervention required during probationary periodAbility to provide accurate, objective documentationPhysical Demands:Ability to lift 30 pounds from floor to shoulder heightExtensive walking and standing requiredAbility to intervene physically if necessary and participate in physical activities with youthAbility to transport youth as neededFree of communicable diseases as defined by the stateOther:Valid driver's license and clean driving recordMust pass state criminal background check requirementsEqual Opportunity Employer