Behavioral Health Technician (BHT) Lead

The Harris Center for Mental Health and IDD ("The HARRIS CENTER") is looking for a Behavioral Health Technician (BHT) Lead to join our team. The Lead BHT works under the direction of the Behavioral Health Technician Supervisor and provides supervision, guidance, and leadership to the BHTs within a 24‑hour dual diagnosis residential program. They ensure that all BHTs perform their duties effectively, maintain a safe and therapeutic environment for clients with co‑occurring mental health and substance use disorders, and support the team in daily activities, group facilitation, and client safety. Key Responsibilities Oversee and coordinate the daily activities of the BHT team, ensuring adherence to schedules and program protocols. Serve as a role model and mentor to BHTs, providing guidance and support in performing their duties. Assist the BHT Supervisor in training new BHTs, including orientation, shadowing, and skills development. Monitor BHT performance and report any concerns, incidents, or performance issues to the BHT Supervisor; complete performance appraisals for the BHT team. Facilitate effective communication between the BHT team and clinical staff, ensuring a cohesive treatment environment. Review and approve timecards for the BHT team. Monitor client behavior and ensure safety of all residents through regular rounds and observations. Respond promptly to behavioral issues or crises, utilizing de‑escalation techniques and coordinating with clinical staff as necessary. Conduct regular room checks and maintain compliance with program rules and safety standards; promote a safe, structured environment and maintain awareness of client whereabouts. Support the implementation of daily program schedules, including client participation in activities, groups, and appointments. Organize and facilitate program activities, including recreational and therapeutic events. Maintain the cleanliness and organization of the residential facility (housekeeping, cleaning, laundry, etc.) and serve food to clients. Assist during adverse weather conditions, including onsite presence as required. Assist in transporting clients to off‑campus appointments, meetings, and activities via agency‑designated vehicles. Ensure all BHTs follow policies and procedures regarding client safety, documentation, and communication. Lead and oversee interactive group sessions designed to engage clients in meaningful activities and promote prosocial skill development. Collaborate with the clinical team to ensure group activities align with clients' treatment goals. Ensure accurate and timely documentation of client interactions, incidents, and progress in the program’s electronic health record (EHR) system. Review BHT documentation for accuracy before submission to the BHT Supervisor or clinical staff. Assist the BHT Supervisor in compiling reports and addressing documentation discrepancies. Coordinate with operational support staff to keep the physical environment safe, clean, and organized; report any facility‑related issues, maintenance needs, or safety concerns. Respond to emergency situations, such as behavioral or medical crises, and coordinate with clinical staff and external emergency services as needed. Contribute to suicide care and prevention by adopting a trauma‑informed approach rooted in safety, trust, choice, collaboration, and empowerment. Qualifications High school diploma or GED. Associate’s degree in psychology, social work, or related field is preferred; equivalent work experience in behavioral health, correctional mental health, residential or related field may be considered if the associate’s degree is not in the preferred area of study. Minimum 3 years of experience in a mental health setting, with at least 1 year of documented team leadership experience. Effective verbal and written communication skills for documentation. Knowledge of and ability to apply agency‑approved crisis intervention techniques. Ability to de‑escalate and manage high‑stress situations, making sound decisions in emergencies. Understanding of standard universal precautions and infection control procedures. Ability to use vital‑sign equipment and other medical devices. Positive interpersonal skills; well‑organized and self‑directed. Ability to coordinate and collaborate with other disciplines across and within the agency, including staff and clients. Demonstrated ethical conduct, professionalism, and confidentiality in all activities. About the Harris Center The Harris Center is the state‑designated Local Mental Health Authority and local Intellectual and Developmental Disability (IDD) Authority serving Harris County, Texas. As the largest behavioral and developmental disability care center in Texas, the Harris Center serves over 90,000 people and operates on an annual budget of more than $300 million. The center offers a continuum of services at 80 different sites across Harris County and in more than 40 languages, including sign language, to serve the diverse community. Additional Information Posting is associated with position #64026. Night shift hours: 6:00 p.m. – 6:30 a.m. Benefits The Harris Center offers a comprehensive benefits package including competitive salary, robust retirement plan with company matching, prior‑service credit for accelerated paid time‑off accrual, and student‑loan forgiveness programs. Additional perks include cell‑phone discounts, exclusive entertainment deals through Tickets at Work, a free Headspace subscription for mental wellness, and an Employee Assistance Program. #J-18808-Ljbffr The Harris Center for Mental Health and ID