Mental Health Associate - Forensics

Mental Health Associate 1 - Forensics Team

Mental Health Department (Classification 755) SEIU Represented Full-Time (37.5 hours/week) position

This position is open until filled. First review of applications will be on October 23, 2026. Any applications received after October 23 will be reviewed and considered as needed, and this posting may close at any time after that date. Linn County requires on-site work. Remote work is not available.

Job Summary

The Qualified Mental Health Associate (QMHA) assigned to the Forensics Team, provides community based skills training, case management, and competency restoration support to individuals who have been found unable to aid and assist in their own defense due to mental illness. Under the clinical supervision of a Qualified Mental Health Professional (QMHP), the QMHA implements individualized service plans designed to support stabilization, treatment engagement, and restoration of competency. Core duties include providing psychoeducation regarding court processes and roles within the legal system; assisting clients in developing coping, communication, and daily living skills; monitoring client progress toward restoration goals; coordinating services with courts, attorneys, corrections staff, and community providers; transporting clients to appointments and court as appropriate; and documenting all services in accordance with program policies, Medicaid requirements, and applicable Oregon Administrative Rules. The position requires the ability to work effectively with justice involved individuals experiencing serious mental illness, manage complex and high risk situations in community settings, and collaborate as part of a multidisciplinary forensic behavioral health team.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's Degree in psychology, social work, counseling or closely related behavior science field preferred; or four years of progressive experience in a mental health service program involving general client needs; or any satisfactory equivalent combination of experience, education and training which demonstrates the ability to perform the work described. Registration with The Mental Health and Addictions Certification Board of Oregon (MHACBO) as a Qualified Mental Health Associate-R (QMHA-R) or Qualified Mental Health Associate (QMHA) I within 30 days of employment. Must be able to be credentialed as a Qualified Mental Health Associate with all Medicaid insurances. Must be able to pass a criminal history check and not be on the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) disqualified list. Possession of a valid motor vehicle operator's license and an acceptable driving record that meets the county's requirements. This is a non-supervisory position. Lead work and coordination of work of others is not a typical function assigned to this position. Incumbents in this position may provide training and orientation to newly assigned personnel.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT: Work is generally performed in an office environment under usual office working conditions. Work involves traveling all over Linn County including operation of a motor vehicle and movement from the vehicle to the office, clinics, community agencies, or schools. Within the office, typical office environment noise levels exist with some telephones, personal interruptions, and background noise. In the performance of job duties, the employee is required to remain in a stationary position most of the time and occasionally move to access and use office machinery or engage with other County employees and members of the public. Position requires regularly attending meetings for prolonged periods of time and frequently communicating with County employees and members of the public to exchange information. Position requires interacting and accommodating individuals experiencing communication barriers and behavioral support needs. Must occasionally lift and/or move up to thirty (30) pounds. Manual dexterity and coordination are required while operating equipment including, but not limited to, phone system and personal computer including word processing, spreadsheets and data base software; computerized record systems; copy and fax machines, calculator, computer keyboard, video display terminal and other related tools and equipment. Position requires the ability to operate a motor vehicle in order to travel between offices and in the community. Some out of County and overnight travel may be required for training. May be required to flex schedule in order to accommodate community members and complete work.

Special Requirements

VISA SPONSORSHIP Linn County does not offer VISA sponsorship. Within three days of hire, applicants will be required to complete the US Department of Homeland Security's I-9 form confirming authorization to work in the United States. If your employment authorization and documentation is contingent on sponsorship now or in the future, you will not meet Agency employment eligibility standards.

Benefits

Linn County employees say their benefits play a large role in what makes the County such a great place to work. We offer competitive benefit plans.

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Benefits Family plans are less than $15 per month
• Vacation and Floating Days
• Paid Holiday Time 10.5 paid holidays
• Sick & Bereavement Time
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• County Paid Life and Long Term Disability Benefits
• Longevity Incentive
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness
• Public Employee Retirement System (PERS) Fully Paid by County

For a full list of our benefits, please visit our Benefits webpage: Benefit Summary