Behavioral Health Technician - Driver

Job Description

Job Description

Job Summary:  

The Behavioral Health Technician (BHT) plays a critical frontline role in supporting clients participating in outpatient substance use disorder treatment programs, including PHP and IOP levels of care. This position ensures the smooth day-to-day operations of client care by providing direct support, monitoring client activity, and assisting clinical staff in implementing treatment plans. The BHT is responsible for maintaining a safe, structured, and recovery-focused environment while fostering accountability and engagement among clients.

• Client Monitoring & Support:  
  • Maintain a visible presence throughout the facility and engage with clients in a professional and supportive manner. 
  • Supervise client behavior to ensure safety and compliance with program rules. 
  • Monitor and document client attendance in group therapy and other scheduled services. 
• Transportation Coordination:  
  • Provide client transportation to and from the facility, housing sites, medical appointments, or external services as needed. 
  • Maintain a transportation schedule and ensure safe and timely arrivals and departures. 
  • Shop for house groceries and supplies.
• Urinalysis (UA) Collection & Processing:  
  • Conduct observed UA drug screens in accordance with facility policies and chain-of-custody procedures. 
  • Label, log, and store samples properly for lab processing. 
  • Ensure UA results are documented and communicated appropriately to clinical staff. 
• Intake & Orientation Support:  
  • Assist with new client intakes, including gathering demographic information, reviewing rules and expectations, and helping clients become oriented to the facility. 
  • Collaborate with clinical and administrative staff to ensure all necessary paperwork and assessments are completed. 
• Group Session Attendance Oversight:  
  • Track and document client attendance in group and individual sessions. 
  • Prompt and redirect clients to scheduled programming as needed. 
  • Report non-attendance, tardiness, or behavioral concerns to the clinical team. 
• Facility Support:  
  • Ensure the treatment environment is clean, safe, and welcoming. 
  • Conduct regular walk-throughs of the facility and housing (if applicable) to monitor for compliance and safety issues. 
  • Assist with light administrative tasks such as filing, faxing, or supply restocking. 
• Communication & Documentation:  
  • Maintain accurate and timely progress notes, logs, and incident reports in the electronic health record (EHR). 
  • Communicate effectively with the treatment team regarding client behavior, concerns, or urgent needs. 
• Crisis Prevention & De-escalation:  
  • Respond appropriately to behavioral or emotional crises using de-escalation techniques and according to facility protocols. 
  • Alert clinical or supervisory staff in the event of a safety issue or clinical concern

Education and/or Work Experience Requirement:  

Minimum Qualifications:  

• Minimum requirement of a High School Diploma. 
• Current Registered Alcohol/Drug Technician (RADT) or in the process of getting a license, must obtain it within the first month of employment. 
• One year of experience in a human services setting; strong professional references attesting to high degree of customer service, punctuality, and professionalism. 
• Current CPR Certification for Healthcare Providers and First Aid Certification. 
• Must be physically and mentally able to assist in an emergency situation. 
• Special consideration is given to applicants with previous experience in behavioral health / substance use treatment. 
• Computer literate and ability to communicate clearly, both in writing and verbally with clients, administration, the treatment team and family members 
• Clean DMV record and/or meet criteria in accordance with Company insurance policy requirements. 
• Valid California Driver's License. 

Preferred Qualifications:  

• Associate or Bachelor Degree in Psychology, Sociology, or in Social Science preferred. 
• Demonstrates interest and ability to work effectively with the community. 
• Competent in working with individuals with diagnosis of chemical dependence. 
• Demonstrates ability to use de-escalation techniques, including but not limited to: attentiveness to potential triggers/stressors and early indicators of distress.  
• Ability to provide responses that rely on engagement and empathy.  
• Ability to model composure through use of calm voice and neutral facial expressions; remaining self-aware of verbal and non-verbal communication.  
• Demonstrates ability to adjust verbal and non-verbal communication, prompting for use of known coping skills; etc. 

Required licenses or certifications:  

• CPR/First Aid 
• CA Driver's License 
• SUDRC/RADT 

Physical Requirements:  

1. Move throughout the facility  and community.  
2. Repetitive hand movement use and view PC. Use fax, telephone, and copier.  
3. Sits or stand for long period of time, reach, bend, climb, stoop, and lift to 25lb.  
4. Read and write, verbal and written communication, time management, and interpersonal skills.  
5. Prioritize, meet deadlines, and use sound judgment.  
6. Have reliable transportation, clean driving record, and car insurance as required by the state.  

Attendance Standards  

Consistently be at work and communicate appropriately any attendance issues with supervisor as per policy. Consistently at their workstation at the appropriately scheduled time. Does not abuse breaks and/or departure times.  

Language Skills  

Has the ability to read and comprehend simple instructions, short correspondence, and memos. Has the ability to write complex correspondence. Has the ability to effectively present information in one-on-one and small group situations to patients, visitors, and other employees of the organization.  

Reasoning Ability  

Has the ability to solve practical complex problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists. Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form.  

Physical Demands  

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.  

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit, stand, walk, stoop, kneel, or crouch. The employee frequently is required to reach with hands and arms; use hands to handle or feel; and talk or hear. The employee may be required to lift and/or move up to 15 lbs. and occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 lbs. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, peripheral vision, and ability to adjust focus.