Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)

Buffalo Plains Recovery; Rapid City, Northern (SD, KY); Hybrid; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health Insurance

Vision Insurance

Competitive pay

Job summary

Buffalo Plains Recovery is seeking a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) to provide direct nursing care in detox and residential treatment. You will support safe withdrawal management, monitor medical and behavioral health needs, and collaborate with the clinical team to ensure quality, client-centered care.

Responsibilities include administering medications, performing assessments, documenting care, and participating in treatment planning with counselors and providers.

Qualifications

• Active LPN license required.
• Experience in substance use treatment, detox or behavioral health preferred.
• Knowledge of withdrawal management and co-occurring conditions preferred.
• Knowledge of addiction, recovery models, and trauma-informed care.
• CPR/BLS certification required or ability to obtain.

Responsibilities

• Administer medications and monitor for side effects and effectiveness.
• Conduct nursing assessments, vital signs, and withdrawal monitoring (e.g., CIWA/COWS).
• Respond to medical concerns and communicate changes promptly to the clinical team.
• Support detox protocols and ensure safe medication practices.
• Document care accurately and in compliance with regulatory standards.
• Collaborate with counselors, BHTs, and providers on treatment planning.
• Provide patient education on medications, withdrawal, and health needs.
• Assist with admissions, discharges, and continuity of care.
• Maintain infection control and a safe clinical environment.

Skills

Substance use treatment experience

Withdrawal management knowledge

Clinical judgment

Communication & teamwork

Respond to withdrawal symptoms

Crisis intervention & de-escalation

Documentation & organization

Education

LPN license

CPR/BLS certification

Valid driver’s license

Tools

EHR systems

CIWA/COWS protocols

Job description

The Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) provides direct nursing care to clients in detox and residential treatment. This role supports safe withdrawal management, monitors medical and behavioral health needs, and collaborates with the clinical team to ensure quality, client-centered care.

Key Responsibilities:

Administer medications and monitor for side effects and effectiveness

Conduct nursing assessments, vital signs, and withdrawal monitoring (e.g., CIWA/COWS)

Respond to medical concerns and communicate changes to CNP promptly

Support detox protocols and ensure safe medication practices

Document care accurately and in compliance with regulatory standards

Collaborate with counselors, BHTs, and providers on treatment planning

Provide client education on medications, withdrawal, and health needs

Assist with admissions, discharges, and continuity of care

Maintain infection control and a safe clinical environment

Qualifications:

Active Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license (required)

Experience in substance use treatment, detox or behavioral health (preferred)

Knowledge of withdrawal management and co-occurring conditions (preferred)

Knowledge of addiction, recovery models, and trauma-informed care

CPR/BLS certification (required or ability to obtain)

Valid driver’s license

Strong clinical judgment and attention to detail

Ability to recognize and respond to withdrawal symptoms

Clear communication and teamwork

Calm, effective response in high-stress situations

Professional boundaries and compassionate care

Crisis intervention and de-escalation

Organization, documentation, and time management

Cultural sensitivity and respect for diverse populations

Ability to build rapport while maintaining boundaries

Detox, residential, and/or outpatient settings

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:

Experience with co-occurring disorders

Experience working in detox and residential settings

Experience with detox protocols (CIWA, COWS)

Familiarity with electronic health records (EHR) systems

Competitive Pay (DOE)

Health Insurance

Vision Insurance