Behavioral Health/Detox Tech

Buffalo Plains Recovery; Rapid City (SD); On-site; USD 36,000 - 52,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health Insurance

Vision Insurance

Dental Insurance

Overnight differential 10%

Job summary

Buffalo Plains Recovery in Rapid City, SD, is seeking a Behavioral Health Technician (BHT) for Detox & Residential Treatment. The role provides direct client support, helps create a safe, structured environment, and supports treatment plans in collaboration with clinical staff.

Ideal candidates have a high school diploma or GED, experience in behavioral health, and CPR/First Aid certification; a Med Aid credential is preferred.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Experience in behavioral health or human services preferred.
• Knowledge of addiction, recovery principles, and trauma-informed care strongly preferred.
• CPR/First Aid certification required (or ability to obtain upon hire).
• Certified Med Aid preferred.

Responsibilities

• Monitor client safety, conduct checks, and document observations.
• Conduct regular client check-ins, observations, and safety rounds, including documentation of behaviors and incidents.
• Assist with intake, orientation, and discharge processes.
• Support clients during withdrawal; report medical or behavioral concerns promptly.
• Help facilitate groups and recovery-based activities as assigned.
• Provide emotional support, encouragement, and crisis intervention when needed.
• Transport clients to appointments or activities as required.
• Complete timely, accurate documentation in accordance with agency and regulatory standards.
• Enforce program policies, boundaries, and structure in a consistent and respectful manner.
• Assist with daily living activities, including meal times, hygiene routines, and housekeeping expectations.
• Participate in team meetings, trainings, and ongoing professional development.
• Perform other functions and tasks as assigned.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Crisis intervention

Boundaries and ethics

Observation and documentation

Teamwork and independence

Cultural sensitivity

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Job description

Job Title: Behavioral Health Technician (BHT) – Detox & Residential Treatment
Department: Behavioral Health / Substance Use Treatment
Reports To: Clinical Supervisor / Program Manager

Position Summary: The Behavioral Health Technician (BHT) provides direct support and supervision to clients in detoxification and residential treatment settings. This role is responsible for ensuring a safe, structured, and therapeutic environment while assisting clients through early recovery. The BHT works closely with clinical staff to support treatment plans, monitor client well-being, and promote positive behavioral change.

Key Responsibilities

• Monitor client safety, conduct checks, and document observations
• Conduct regular client check-ins, observations, and safety rounds, including documentation of behaviors and incidents
• Assist with intake, orientation, and discharge processes
• Support clients during withdrawal; report medical or behavioral concerns promptly
• Help facilitate groups and recovery-based activities as assigned
• Provide emotional support, encouragement, and crisis intervention when needed
• Transport clients to appointments or activities as required
• Complete timely, accurate documentation in accordance with agency and regulatory standards
• Enforce program policies, boundaries, and structure in a consistent and respectful manner
• Assist with daily living activities, including meal times, hygiene routines, and housekeeping expectations
• Participate in team meetings, trainings, and ongoing professional development
• Perform other functions and tasks as assigned

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required
• Previous experience in behavioral health, substance use treatment, or human services preferred
• Knowledge of addiction, recovery principles, and trauma-informed care is strongly preferred
• Certified Med Aid preferred
• CPR/First Aid certification (or ability to obtain upon hire)
• Valid driver’s license and clean driving record

Skills & Competencies

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to manage crisis situations calmly and effectively
• Professional boundaries and ethical decision-making
• Observation and documentation accuracy
• Team-oriented with the ability to work independently
• Cultural sensitivity and respect for diverse populations

Work Environment & Requirements

• 24/7 facility requiring flexible scheduling, including nights, weekends, and holidays
• Ability to stand, walk, and remain alert for extended periods
• Ability to safely intervene in crisis situations, including de-escalation and, if trained, physical intervention

Preferred Attributes

• Lived experience in recovery (as appropriate and aligned with program values)
• Experience working in detox or residential settings
• Familiarity with electronic health records (EHR) systems

Benefits

• Competitive Pay (DOE)
• 10% overnight differential
• Health Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Dental Insurance