Behavioral Health Technician Hospital - (1st or 3rd Shift)

River Valley Behavioral Health; Owensboro (KY); On-site; USD 23,000 - 25,000; Full time

Job summary

River Valley Behavioral Health in Owensboro, KY 42301 is seeking a Behavioral Health Technician to supervise and support children and adolescents in a hospital setting. The role involves 1:1 ABA-based instruction and implementing individualized treatment plans to improve daily living and behavioral goals.

The BHT will work 12-hour rotating shifts, including every other weekend, and will collaborate with the treatment team to ensure a safe, therapeutic environment.

Qualifications

• Strong communication, observation and teamwork skills.
• Organizational, planning and group facilitation skills.
• Ability to engage youth positively.
• Ability to remain calm and supportive in high-stress situations.
• Basic knowledge of child and adolescent development.
• Basic Understanding of behavior intervention plans and ABA strategies.

Responsibilities

• Assess mood and behavior changes and take appropriate action, including modifying behavior or alerting clinical staff.
• Utilize de-escalation techniques to defuse challenging situations.
• Serve as a consistent role model for all patients.
• Work 12-hour rotating shifts, including every other weekend.
• Maintain strict confidentiality regarding patient information.
• Effectively communicate patient status to nursing and leadership teams.
• Provide 1:1 and group instruction in communication, ADLs, behavior, social skills, and academics as outlined by the treatment team.
• Collaborate with the Senior Behavior Analyst (SBA) daily regarding questions, concerns, or suggestions.
• Support skill development aligned with each patient’s individualized treatment plan.
• Assist with new admissions and room searches in coordination with nursing staff while maintaining patient rights.
• Support patient ADLs, including bathing, grooming, and room maintenance.
• Document observations and progress according to policy and report key information to nursing staff.
• Plan and implement structured activities in coordination with Recreation Therapy staff.
• Maintain current certifications TB testing and Safe Crisis Management.
• Comply with all infection control procedures and PPE guidelines.
• Model the mission and values of RiverValley Behavioral Health.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

Communication

Observation

Teamwork

Organization

Planning

Group facilitation

Youth engagement

Calm under pressure

Child development

ABA strategies

Education

High School diploma or GED

Job description

Job Details

Location: Owensboro, KY 42301
Position Type: Full Time
Education Level: High School/GED
Salary Range: $17.00 - $18.00 hourly
Travel Percentage: None
Job Shift: Night

Job Summary

Shift Time:
- 1st Shift: 6:30am-6:30pm
- 3rd Shift: 6:30pm-6:30am
The Behavioral Health Technician (BHT) supervises and provides a safe and therapeutic environment for children and adolescents admitted to RVBH Hospital. They may provide 1:1 instruction utilizing the principals of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) based upon an individualized intervention plans developed by the treatment team for children diagnosed with autism, intellectual disabilities, and emotional and behavioral disorders. BHTs support each patient’s physical, psychological, spiritual, and social well-being through therapeutic interactions guided by person‑centered treatment plans and help them work toward achieving a healthier quality of life.

Essential Functions

• Assess mood and behavior changes and take appropriate action, including modifying behavior or alerting clinical staff.
• Utilize de‑escalation techniques to defuse challenging situations.
• Serve as a consistent role model for all patients.
• Work 12‑hour rotating shifts, including every other weekend.
• Maintain strict confidentiality regarding patient information.
• Effectively communicate patient status to nursing and leadership teams.
• Provide 1:1 and group instruction in communication, ADLs, behavior, social skills, and academics as outlined by the treatment team.
• Collaborate with the Senior Behavior Analyst (SBA) daily regarding questions, concerns, or suggestions.
• Support skill development aligned with each patient’s individualized treatment plan.
• Assist with new admissions and room searches in coordination with nursing staff while maintaining patient rights.
• Support patient ADLs, including bathing, grooming, and room maintenance.
• Document observations and progress according to policy and report key information to nursing staff.
• Plan and implement structured activities in coordination with Recreation Therapy staff.
• Maintain current certifications TB testing and Safe Crisis Management.
• Comply with all infection control procedures and PPE guidelines.
• Model the mission and values of RiverValley Behavioral Health.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Valid driver’s license preferred.
• One (1) year of direct care experience in a similar facility preferred.
• Preferred experience or training in ABA and working with individuals diagnosed with autism, intellectual disabilities, or emotional/behavioral disorders.

Knowledge and Skills

• Strong communication, observation and teamwork skills.
• Organizational, planning and group facilitation skills.
• Ability to engage youth positively.
• Ability to remain calm and supportive in high-stress situations.
• Basic knowledge of child and adolescent development.
• Basic Understanding of behavior intervention plans and ABA strategies.