Mental Health Technician

Mental Health Technician - Youth Behavioral Health
Location: New Hope, MI (New Hope Youth Center)
Job Type: Full-Time, Must be open to working any shift and at least one shift every weekend.
Pay: $20.00 per hour

About Youth Opportunity & New Hope Youth Center

Youth Opportunity is a nationally recognized leader in residential and behavioral health treatment for at-risk youth. Our New Hope Youth Center in New Hope, Michigan provides trauma-informed short-term and long-term residential treatment for females ages 10 to 17 who have experienced abuse or neglect. Youth may present with mental health or behavioral needs requiring care in a structured, therapeutic environment.

The program offers individualized mental health and substance abuse treatment through individual, family, and group therapy, along with life skills and social skills development. Services are provided in a caring, supportive setting focused on ensuring the safety and well-being of youth at all times. The average length of stay depends on progress toward individualized treatment goals and readiness for aftercare placement.

Mental Health Technician Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with up to 4% employer match with Immediate Vesting
• Paid time off (PTO) and holidays - earn 4 hours of PTO every pay period
• Free RX delivery on most medications
• Tuition reimbursement and professional development
• Robust Employee Assistance Program
• Supportive, mission-driven work environment

Why Join Youth Opportunity?

• Be part of a team making a difference in the lives of vulnerable youth
• Gain experience in a growing field of youth mental health and residential care
• Work in a secure, structured, and supportive treatment environment
• Develop your skills through training, mentorship, and advancement opportunities

Mental Health Technician Responsibilities:

• Supervise a group of 7-10 youth through activities during waking and non-waking hours
• Provide a safe, secure environment using group counseling techniques, positive discipline, and crisis intervention as needed
• Represent each youth's needs and accomplishments to the treatment team
• Lead group meetings and encourage peer support and accountability
• Assist teachers in delivering classroom content and transferring study skills to daily routines
• Facilitate and encourage structured activities that support treatment goals
• Document shift occurrences, headcounts, and referrals for medical needs
• Support with transporting youth and maintain security and supervision protocols

Additional Responsibilities:

• Participate in training and development activities
• Report incidents or concerns regarding youth safety or conduct
• Perform other duties as assigned

Requirements:

Education:

• Two years of college coursework in social or human services preferred
• High school diploma or equivalent required

Experience:

• Two years of experience working with youth preferred

Skills:

• Strong verbal and interpersonal communication
• Ability to work effectively in group settings
• Proficiency in crisis intervention methods (training provided)
• Solid documentation and observation skills

Physical Demands:

• Ability to lift 30 lbs. and actively supervise youth in various environments
• Respond quickly to emergencies, apply physical restraint if needed
• Engage in activities indoors and outdoors in varying conditions

Other:

• Valid driver's license required
• Must meet state criminal background check requirements

Youth Opportunity Investments is an Equal Opportunity Employer.