Behavioral Health Trans Spclst, Grounds Transport Dept, PRN Days

Beacon Health System; Kalamazoo (MI); On-site; USD 38,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

Beacon Health System is seeking a Behavioral Health Transport Specialist to safely move patients with behavioral health needs between facilities. You will use de-escalation techniques, follow safety protocols, and collaborate with the Transfer Center, EMS, and hospital staff to ensure smooth handoffs.

The role emphasizes patient-centered care, strict documentation, and on-time transports in a field-based, high-stress environment.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Valid driver’s license required.
• Ability to pass background check.
• BLS certification (or obtain during onboarding).

Responsibilities

• Operate specialized vehicle safely.
• Complete assigned transports.
• Maintain punctuality and accurate documentation.
• Maintain observation of patients.
• Utilize safety equipment per policy.
• Escalate concerns appropriately.
• Ensure proper handoff.
• Coordinate with Transfer Center, facilities, EMS.
• Report incidents and delays.
• Perform vehicle checks.
• Follow HIPAA and safety standards.
• Participate in required training.
• Assist with loading/unloading patients.
• Respond to emergent situations.

Skills

De-escalation

Situational awareness

Communication

Patient-centered care

Reliability

Education

High school diploma or GED

Valid driver’s license

Background check clearance

BLS certification

Tools

CPI training

Job description

The Behavioral Health Transport Specialist is responsible for the safe, secure, and compassionate transport of patients with behavioral health needs between healthcare facilities and other approved destinations. This role supports patient throughput and works under the direction of Ambulance Transport/Clinical Operations leadership, using de-escalation techniques and safety protocols.

Core Responsibilities

Transport Operations

• Operate specialized vehicle safely
• Complete assigned transports
• Maintain punctuality and accurate documentation

Patient Safety & Monitoring

• Maintain observation of patients
• Utilize safety equipment per policy
• Escalate concerns appropriately
• Ensure proper handoff

Behavioral Management

• Use de-escalation techniques
• Maintain professionalism in high-stress situations

Communication

• Coordinate with Transfer Center, facilities, EMS
• Report incidents and delays

Safety & Compliance

• Perform vehicle checks
• Follow HIPAA and safety standards
• Participate in required training

Physical Requirements

• Assist with loading/unloading patients using team members and equipment
• Manage patients/equipment over 100 lbs with assistance
• Ability to sit, stand, bend, kneel
• Respond to emergent situations

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED
• Valid driver’s license
• Ability to pass background check
• BLS certification (or obtain during onboarding)

Preferred Qualifications

• EMS, behavioral health, or transport experience
• CPI training
• Healthcare setting familiarity

Core Competencies

• De-escalation skills
• Situational awareness
• Communication
• Patient-centered care
• Reliability

Work Environment

Field-based role with exposure to behavioral health patients, stressful environments, and varied conditions.

Performance Expectations

• On-time transports
• Safety performance
• Documentation accuracy
• Communication effectiveness
• Satisfaction feedback