Behavioral Health Technician (BHT)

Buffalo Plains Recovery; Rapid City, Northern (SD, KY); Hybrid; USD 36,000 - 48,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health Insurance

Vision Insurance

Job summary

Buffalo Plains Recovery is seeking a Behavioral Health Technician to provide direct support in detoxification and residential treatment settings. The role ensures a safe, structured environment while aiding clients through early recovery and coordinating with clinical staff.

Responsibilities include safety checks, intake and discharge support, crisis intervention, group facilitation, documentation, and collaboration with the team.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Previous experience in behavioral health, substance use treatment, or human services preferred.
• CPR/First Aid certification (or ability to obtain upon hire).
• Valid driver’s license and clean driving record.

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

Crisis intervention

Documentation accuracy

Communication skills

Professional boundaries

Ethical decision-making

Team collaboration

Cultural sensitivity

Observation skills

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Electronic health records (EHR) familiarity

Job description

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

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

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

Exposure to individuals in various stages of withdrawal and mental health distress

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

Competitive Pay (DOE)

Health Insurance

Vision Insurance