CMA - Certified Medication Aide

Ascension Recovery Services; Iowa City (IA); On-site; USD 35,000 - 45,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health Benefit with premium reimbursement

Paid Time Off (PTO)

401(k) Retirement Plan

Job summary

Ascension Recovery Services in Iowa City is seeking a Certified Medical Assistant & Behavior Health Technician to provide critical support in a residential treatment setting. The ideal candidate will possess a CMA credential and a high school diploma, along with experience in healthcare or behavioral health.

This position involves direct patient interaction, clinical support tasks, and collaboration with licensed nursing staff to ensure comprehensive patient care. Comprehensive benefits include health insurance, paid time off, and opportunities for career advancement.

Qualifications

• Experience in healthcare, behavioral health, or substance use disorder treatment settings.
• Ability to work under licensed nursing supervision and follow delegated tasks.
• Basic medical knowledge to perform clinical support tasks.

Responsibilities

• Perform clinical support tasks under RN/LPN supervision.
• Provide direct supervision and support to patients.
• Adhere to HIPAA and accreditation standards.

Skills

Clinical awareness and attention to detail

Strong communication skills

Organizational skills

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Current Certified Medical Aide (CMA) credential

Tools

EMR systems

Job description

Thrive Now Recovery Center

Iowa City, IA

Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) & Behavior Health Technician

Shifts: 3‑day workweek to facilitate work/life balance

Days: 6:00am – 6:30pm

Nights: 6:00pm – 6:30am

Full‑time, PRN

Join a team that’s changing lives. At Thrive Now Recovery Center, we provide compassionate, evidence‑based care for individuals recovering from substance use disorders and co‑occurring mental health conditions. Our programs are structured, trauma‑informed, and grounded in dignity, accountability, and whole‑person recovery.

We are seeking a Certified Medication Aide (CMA) & Behavior Health Technician (BHT) to support licensed nursing staff and day‑to‑day recovery operations in our residential treatment setting.

Position Overview

The CMA & BHT works under the direction and supervision of licensed nursing staff (RN/LPN) and provides a combination of clinical support services within CMA scope and direct recovery support to patients.

Depending on census, acuity, and operational needs, this role may focus primarily on CMA support tasks, recovery support, or a combination of both, while remaining fully within scope, policy, and supervision requirements.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Certified Medication Aide (CMA) Responsibilities

• Perform clinical support tasks under RN/LPN supervision and in accordance with Iowa scope of practice, provider delegation, and ARS policies.
• Support medication processes without independent administration, including preparation support, observation, and documentation assistance as permitted.
• Obtain and document vital signs and assist with basic medical screenings.
• Observe and report patient responses, side effects, or changes in condition to licensed nursing staff promptly.
• Maintain accurate and timely documentation in the EMR.
• Follow infection control, medication safety, confidentiality, and safety protocols.

Behavior Health Tech Responsibilities

• Provide direct supervision, structure, and recovery‑oriented support to patients in a residential treatment setting.
• Assist with patient orientation, daily schedules, groups, activities, and program expectations.
• Support admissions, intakes, and discharges as assigned.
• Conduct safety checks, room checks, and wellness rounds per policy.
• Use trauma‑informed, non‑punitive approaches to de‑escalate situations and elevate concerns appropriately.
• Model appropriate professional boundaries and recovery‑supportive behavior at all times.

Team Collaboration & Compliance

• Work collaboratively with RN, LPN, Clinical, Admissions, and Program teams.
• Adhere to HIPAA, 42 CFR Part 2, Iowa DHS regulations, and accreditation standards.
• Follow all ARS policies, procedures, and professional conduct expectations.
• Participate in required training, supervision, and team meetings.

Qualifications

Required

• Current Certified Medical Aide (CMA) credential.
• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Experience in healthcare, behavioral health, or substance use disorder treatment settings.
• Ability to work under licensed nursing supervision and follow delegated tasks.
• Strong communication, documentation, and organizational skills.

Preferred

• Experience in residential or inpatient SUD treatment.
• Familiarity with EMRs and clinical documentation.
• CPR/First Aid certification (or ability to obtain).
• Knowledge of trauma‑informed care.

Key Competencies

• Clinical awareness and attention to detail
• Recovery‑oriented and patient‑centered mindset
• Emotional regulation and situational awareness
• Dependability and teamwork
• Ethical judgment and professional boundaries

Work Conditions

• On‑site role in a residential treatment environment.
• Requires standing, walking, and direct patient interaction.
• Shifts may include evenings, weekends, holidays, or overnight coverage.

Why You’ll Love Working Here

The work you do truly changes lives. We recognize the importance of supporting the people who make that impact possible. When you join our team, you’re stepping into a place that invests in your growth, wellbeing, and long‑term career success.

Comprehensive Benefits & Support

• ICHRA Health Benefit – choose a health plan that fits your needs, with premium reimbursement
• Dental & Vision Insurance
• Employer‑Paid Life Insurance, with optional supplemental coverage
• 401(k) Retirement Plan
• Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) + paid holidays
• Paid Training & Continuing Education
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Clear Career Pathways & Advancement Opportunities
• Safe, Trauma‑Informed Work Environment
• Modern Facilities & Work–life balance
• Supportive Nursing Leadership that invests in your growth

Equal Employment Opportunity

We are proud to be an equal‑opportunity employer. We believe that diversity and inclusion strengthen our organization and enhance the quality of care we provide. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.