Behavioral Health Tech

Position Summary:
The Behavioral Health Technician (Tech) plays an essential role in supporting licensed nurses by delivering safe and compassionate care. Working under the direct supervision of a licensed nurse, the Behavioral Health Tech assists in patient care by performing assigned tasks that contribute to a positive, respectful, and dignified experience for each patient. This role requires professionalism, empathy, and a commitment to ARHS values of integrity and accountability.

Position Highlights:

• Patient-Centered Care: Engage with patients compassionately, providing respectful and dignified assistance.
• Collaborative Support: Work closely with licensed nurses and healthcare teams to enhance patient care and ensure safety.
• Professional Environment: Uphold the ARHS Mission, Vision, and Values, focusing on efficiency, ethics, and patient safety.

Key Responsibilities:

• Care Assistance: Support licensed nurses by assisting in the delivery of direct patient care, ensuring safety and comfort for all patients.
• Ethical Interactions: Communicate with patients, families, colleagues, and physicians in a manner that respects each individual’s dignity and unique needs.
• Policy Compliance: Follow all ARHS policies, procedures, and regulatory standards to maintain a safe and compliant care environment.
• Emergency Response: Respond effectively to emergencies, providing timely support in line with the direction of licensed nurses.
• Workplace Collaboration: Build positive working relationships with coworkers, leadership, and all ARHS team members, promoting a healthy and productive work environment.

Compensation:

• Competitive Pay: Starting at $16.75 per hour, with compensation based on education and experience.

Position Qualifications:

• Minimum Education

  • High school diploma or GED required.

• Experience

  • Previous experience as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) is preferred.

• Required Licenses/Certifications

  • Basic Life Support (BLS) from the American Heart Association (required at the time of hire).
  • CNA Certification in North Carolina is preferred.
  • CPI (Crisis Prevention Intervention) certification required within one year of hire.

• Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  • Knowledge of and ability to work within the Behavioral Health Tech scope, under licensed supervision.
  • Strong communication skills, both verbal and non-verbal, to interact courteously and effectively.
  • Competency in safe and effective patient care within the limits of certification and hospital policies.
  • Customer service focus with the ability to create a positive experience for patients, families, and staff.
  • Basic computer and EMR (Electronic Medical Record) data entry skills.

Physical Demands:

• Ability to lift, position, push, pull, and transfer over 50 pounds.
• Prolonged standing, sitting, and walking with frequent bending, squatting, twisting, and reaching.
• Near acuity for clear vision within 20 inches.

Working Conditions:

• Healthcare Environment: Exposure to bloodborne pathogens, electrical/mechanical equipment, odorous chemicals, and other potential hazards.
• Flexible Schedule: This role includes irregular hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Physical Activity: Continuous standing and walking for long periods and regular patient mobilization.

About UNC Health Appalachian

UNC Health Appalachian, the leader for healthcare in the High Country, comprises three hospitals, 13 medical practices, Seby B. Jones Regional Cancer Center, The Rehabilitation Center, and Appalachian Regional Healthcare Foundation. UNC Health Appalachian stays committed to promoting health in the High Country, enhancing quality of life, and simply “making life better.“ 

About UNC Health

UNC Health is a state entity and an affiliated enterprise of the University of North Carolina system, comprised of 14 hospitals, 18 hospital campuses and more than 500 clinics along with the clinical patient care programs of the UNC School of Medicine (SOM). It exists to improve the health and well-being of North Carolinians and others we serve and to further the teaching mission of the University of North Carolina SOM. Over the past three years, UNC Health has provided more than $400 million in uncompensated or charity care to the citizens of North Carolina. Our hospitals have received numerous awards and recognition for quality care, patient safety and the overall patient experience. For more information, please visit unchealth.org. 

UNC Health Appalachian embraces diversity and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected status. We value a workforce that reflects a variety of backgrounds and perspectives, as it enhances our ability to provide outstanding care. We welcome and encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and experiences. UNC Health Appalachian is committed to providing a fair and inclusive hiring process and a workplace where all team members feel respected and empowered. If you require accommodations during the application process, please contact us. 

Employment at UNC Health Appalachian is contingent upon successful completion of a background and drug screen.

Salary : $17