MENTAL HEALTH SPECIALIST TRAINEE

Search by keyword (e.g. County, Job Title etc.) Select how often (in days) to receive an alert: We continually strive for a workforce that reflects the growing diversity within the State of Illinois. A variety of employee backgrounds, perspectives, ideas and experiences are crucial to our ability to most effectively serve the public. Bilingual skills welcome Reasonable Accommodation Statement The State of Illinois is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to people with disabilities. Further, federal law requires employers to provide reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals with disabilities. Please tell us if you require a reasonable accommodation to apply for a job, interview for a job, or for any other activity related to the hiring process. Examples of reasonable accommodation include, but are not limited to, making a change to the application process (if possible), providing documents in an alternate format, using a sign language interpreter, or using specialized equipment. To be provided a Reasonable Accommodation during the hiring process, you will need to provide a certification of disability from a physician, psychiatrist, school official or an Illinois Department of Human Services (DHS) Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Counselor. Supporting documentation should be uploaded under My Documents → Additional Documents section for each application. Any questions on Reasonable Accommodations can be directed to Central Management Services Disability Resource Center at View email address on click.appcast.io or call View phone number on click.appcast.io for further information and to request or discuss an accommodation. Sponsorship for Employment The State of Illinois does not provide sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g. H-1B visa status), nor is the State able to provide extensions of optional practical training (OPT) under the STEM-designated degree program for F-1 students. To be considered for permanent employment with the State of Illinois, applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. Disclosure of Salary Information In compliance with the Illinois Equal Pay Act, 820 ILCS 112/1 et seq., the State does not seek, request, or require a job applicant’s wage or salary history. Employment decisions are not made based on an applicant’s wage or salary history. To that end, please do not include wage or salary information in your resume or other profile or application materials. Job Requisition ID: 57644 OpeningDate: 08/14/2026 Closing Date: 08/27/2026 Agency: Department of Human Services Class Title: MENTAL HEALTH SPECIALIST TRAINEE - 26928 Skill Option: None Bilingual Option: None Salary: Anticipated Salary: $4,568 - $6,133 per month ($54,816 - $73,596 per year) Job Type: Salaried Category: Full Time County: Clinton Number of Vacancies: 1 Bargaining Unit Code: RC062 Technical Employees, AFSCME Merit Comp Code: This position is a union position; therefore, provisions of the relevant collective bargaining agreement/labor contract apply to the filling of this position. While not required,a Resume/Curriculum Vitae (CV) is recommended. When applicable, titles that require specific coursework, professional license or certification will include a notation requesting the appropriate document(s) be uploaded in Additional Documentssection of yourapplication. Failure to upload requested transcripts, license and/or proof of certification when specified may result in ineligibility. Please note that the Department of Human Services must verify proof of higher education for any degree earned (if applicable) regardless of vacancy title before any offer can be extended. Why Work for Illinois? Working with the State of Illinois is a testament to the values of compassion, equity, and dedication that define our state. Whether you're helping to improve schools, protect our natural resources, or support families in need, you're part of something bigger- something that touches the lives of every person who calls Illinois home. No matter what state career you're looking for, we offer jobs that fit your life and your schedule—flexible jobs that provide the gold standard of benefits. Our employees can take advantage of various avenues to advance their careers and realize their dreams. Our top-tier benefits and great retirement packages can help you build a rewarding career and lasting future with the State of Illinois. Position Overview The Division of Developmental Disabilities is seeking to hire a Mental Health Specialist Trainee for the Murray Developmental Center located in Centralia, Illinois. For a period of no less than six months and not to exceed twelve months, receives instructions and training in the ability to review, assess, monitor, and implement behavioral programs. Receives Training in the maintenance of evaluative data and the ability to provide technical guidance and direction to less experienced staff. Assists in the assessment of individuals and their behavioral needs. Essential Functions For a period of no less than six months and not to exceed twelve months, receives a minimum of 120 hours in formal classroom training and a minimum of 400 hours in on-the-job training in the assessment of individual needs and the development of appropriate treatment program. Observes individuals’ response to treatment and reports to the Chief Psychologist on findings. Observes meetings with psych/behavioral department staff and individuals’ family members/guardians regarding the responses to individuals’ treatments. Completes informal classroom training and on-the-job training regarding behavioral programs and the assessment of individuals and their behavioral needs. Performs other duties as required or assigned which are reasonably within the scope of the duties enumerated above. Minimum Qualifications Requires knowledge, skill and mental development equivalent to a Bachelor’s degree in one of the behavioral sciences. Preferred Qualifications Two (2) years of professional experience in the assessment of individual needs and the development of appropriate treatment program for a public or private organization. Two (2) years of professional experience reviewing, assessing, monitoring, and implementing behavioral programs for a public or private organization. Two (2) years of professional experience observing individuals’/patients’ response to treatment. Two (2) years of professional experience reviewing medical records and previous psychological evaluations to assist in conducting assessment to target behaviors. Two (2) years of professional experience working with persons with mental illness or intellectual disabilities. Two (2) years of professional experience communicating effectively both verbally and in writing. Conditions of Employment Requires the ability to work after business hours, weekends and holidays. Requires the ability to physically restrain individuals as necessary to prevent injury to individual or others. Requires the ability to utilize office equipment, including personal computers. Requires the ability to travel. Requires ability to pass the IDHS background check. Requires ability to pass a drug screen for drugs prohibited from recreational use under Illinois Law. *All conditions of employment listed are incorporated and related to any of the job duties as listed in the job description. Work Hours: Mon - Fri, 8:00am - 4:00pm or 8:30pm - 4:30pm, 30 minute unpaid lunch Posting Group: Health Services; Social Services About the Agency: The Illinois Department of Human Services uplifts individuals and communities across Illinois. Our mission is to respond to the needs of all people in Illinois so they can lead healthy, safe, and enriched lives. Our vision is the future we are shaping with dignity and the well-being for everyone in Illinois. Our values are the principles that guide us as we work to remove systemic barriers and create lasting opportunities with Compassion, Accessibility, Responsibility, and Equity. As a State of Illinois employee, you will receive a robust benefit package that includes the following: Competitive Group Insurance Benefits including Health, Life, Dental and Vision Insurance 3 Paid Personal Business Days annually 12 Paid Sick days annually (Sick days carry over from year to year) 10-25 days of Paid Vacation time annually - (10 days in year one of employment) Benefit time modified for part-time, 12-hour, & non-standard work schedules (as applicable) 13 Paid Holidays annually, 14 on even numbered years Flexible Work Schedules (when available dependent upon position) 12 Weeks Paid Parental Leave Deferred Compensation Program - A supplemental retirement plan Optional Pre-Tax Programs such as Medical Care Assistance Plan (MCAP), Dependent Care Assistance Plan (DCAP) Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program eligibility GI Bill Training/Apprenticeship Benefits eligibility for qualifying Veterans 5% Salary Differential for Bilingual Positions #J-18808-Ljbffr