Behavioral Health Specialist I (BHS 1) (FT, Nights)

Connections Health Solutions; Woodbridge (VA); On-site; USD 31,684 - 35,073; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

401(k) company match

Generous PTO

Job summary

Connections Health Solutions is seeking a Behavioral Health Specialist I in Woodbridge, VA, to provide immediate support in a crisis care environment. This full-time role involves conducting safety screenings, maintaining unit safety, and ensuring compliance with behavioral regulations.

Ideal candidates should possess a high school diploma and at least one year of relevant experience. Competitive pay, ranging from $23 to $25.46, and extensive health benefits are offered.

Qualifications

• 1 year of behavioral health experience required.
• Must be fully vaccinated or exempt.
• State of Virginia Fingerprint Clearance needed.

Responsibilities

• Conduct security screening of individuals upon admission.
• Maintain safety of the unit and monitor individuals.
• Document all services and interactions in EHR.

Skills

Safe Clinch patient restraint techniques

Behavioral Health experience

Physical Interventions

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Behavioral Health Specialist I (BHS 1) (FT, Nights)

Connections Health Solutions is a leading provider of immediate‑access behavioral health crisis care. Our team combines medical and recovery‑oriented treatment to stabilize individuals in crisis and connect them to community‑based resources for ongoing recovery.

Founded by emergency room psychiatrists Dr. Chris Carson and Dr. Robert Williamson, our model is physician‑led and data‑driven, drawing upon more than 15 years of crisis care expertise. Recognized by SAMHSA and the National Council for Mental Wellbeing as a national best practice, we’ve delivered invaluable treatment to hundreds of thousands of individuals facing crises.

Our values shape our decisions: we accept people as they are, create safe spaces, inspire hope, act with intention, work as a united team, and embrace change and innovation.

Shift Differentials

• +$2/hr – Monday‑Thursday Nights
• +$3/hr – Friday‑Sunday Nights
• +$2/hr – Saturday‑Sunday Days

What You’ll Do

• Conduct security screening and inventory property of individuals upon admission.
• Provide orientation to the Observation Unit and Residential Crisis Stabilization Unit.
• Educate individuals on their rights under DBHDS and DMAS regulations, grievance processes, expectations, and rules.
• Maintain safety of the unit and monitor and document individuals every 15 minutes.
• Intervene with escalated individuals using therapeutic techniques for de‑escalation; perform restraints or seclusions when needed and complete 1‑to‑1 observation every 15 minutes during the event.
• Lift, move, and transport individuals using proper body mechanics.
• Assist with activities of daily living (eating, bathing, dressing).
• Conduct and document vital signs; report results to RN/Physician. Conduct and document BAL, urine drug screens, and urine pregnancy tests.
• Attend court‑ordered hearings when subpoenaed and serve as a witness.
• Document all services and significant interactions in the Electronic Health Record (EHR).
• Maintain and ensure the cleanliness of the facility and assigned unit; perform light cleaning, collect soiled linen, and launder clothing when needed.
• Complete required training, attend monthly meetings, and maintain competencies.
• Perform Safe Clinch restraint techniques and CPR; respond quickly to emergent situations.
• Perform all other duties as assigned.

What You’ll Bring

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• 1 year of behavioral health experience.
• Must be able to perform Safe Clinch patient restraint techniques.
• Fully vaccinated in accordance with company policy, or obtain an exemption before starting.
• State of Virginia Fingerprint Clearance.
• Pass Virginia Department of Behavioral Health & Developmental Services (VA DBHDS) background check.
• Pass Virginia Department of Social Services (VA DSS) Office of Background Investigations – Central Registry Search.
• Must be able to obtain a Food Handlers Card for Virginia (BHS/RSS positions).
• Physical Requirements
  • Safely perform physical interventions (standing, pivoting, reaching, kneeling, lowering to the floor, supporting another person’s weight).
  • Lift, push, pull, or carry up to 50 lb. occasionally.
  • Tolerate prolonged walking, standing, and observation in a fast‑paced environment.
  • Work with individuals who may exhibit agitation, aggression, or unpredictable behavior.

It Would Be Great If You Had

• Certified training (Safe Clinch, CPR/First Aid, therapeutic options).
• Completion of CNA or Patient Care Tech program.
• Completion of BHT certification.

What We Offer

• Full‑time offers comprehensive health insurance (Medical, Dental, Vision, Accident, Critical Illness, Hospital Indemnity).
• CHS pays Basic Life, AD&D, Short and Long‑Term Disability.
• Voluntary Life insurance for employees and families.
• Health Savings Accounts (employer contribution $1,000–$2,000).
• Flexible Spending Accounts (healthcare and dependent care).
• 401(k) company match after 6 months (50 % of deferrals up to 6 % of compensation).
• Generous PTO starting at 160 hours accrued annually and 12 company holidays.
• Company‑paid parental leave for eligible employees.
• Employee Assistance Program (confidential emotional support, financial, legal, online support).
• Auto‑enrollment in 401(k) after 90 days.

EEO Statement

Connections Health Solutions is an equal‑opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We are committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for all employees and applicants.

$23 – $25.46 USD (actual compensation is based on relevant experience, education, internal equity, and budget).