Mental Health Specialist 1 / Behavior Tech / DSP

Dungarvin; Forest Lake (MN); On-site; USD 22,730 - 32,373; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive Benefits

401(k) with employer match

Paid Time Off

Employee Perks

Paid Training

Job summary

Dungarvin is looking for a Mental Health Specialist in Forest Lake, Minnesota, with a starting rate of $20.00/hr. You will provide support to individuals with mental health needs while ensuring safety and engagement. This role requires a high school diploma or GED and 2 years' experience in the field.

The company offers comprehensive benefits, including medical, vision, and dental insurance, 401(k) matches, and growth opportunities. Join our passionate team and help make a lasting impact!

Qualifications

• 2 years' experience providing mental or behavioral health services.
• Basic computer skills are required.
• Valid driver’s license and proof of auto insurance are needed.

Responsibilities

• Provide direct support to individuals with behavioral and mental health needs.
• Monitor behavioral changes and communicate proactively with supervisors.
• Support family contacts and assist with appointments and medication tasks.

Skills

Crisis prevention techniques

Communication skills

Problem-solving

Time management

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Electronic documentation systems

Job description

Join Our Passionate Team as a Mental Health Specialist (MHS I) – Make a Lasting Impact Every Day!

At Dungarvin, we are more than a provider of support services - we’re a mission-driven team rooted in respect, response and choice. Since 1976, we’ve been dedicated to meeting people where they are, working alongside them to provide person‑centered supports that allow people to live independently as possible. You’ll work directly with people in need of assistance, and/or living with intellectual or developmental disabilities, or other complex medical needs. With services across the country, our team is united by a shared commitment to making a real difference - one person, one voice, one choice at a time. We encourage you to embrace this opportunity to impact someone’s life.

Why Dungarvin?

• Fixed Starting Rate: $20.00/hr
• Schedules: Variety of schedules available (All persons in this position should be prepared to work some weekend shifts and holidays.)
• Comprehensive Benefits: Medical, Vision, Dental Insurance (for FT employees), Supplemental Insurance, Life Insurance, and more!
• Retirement Savings: 401(k) with up to a 3% employer match
• Paid Time Off that increases with tenure; Including PTO Donation options
• Employee Perks: National Brand Discounts, Employee Referral Program, and access to Tapcheck (get 50% of your pay before payday)
• Growth & Development: Access to career growth opportunities, paid training, and mentorship
• Mileage Reimbursement for travel
• Paid Training and Orientation: Training provided to ensure you’re equipped to handle challenging behaviors.

Job Description

• Provide direct support to individuals with behavioral and mental health needs, while using person‑centered approaches focused on safety, skill‑building, and positive engagement.
• Support individuals in accordance with behavior support plans, treatment plans, crisis‑prevention strategies, de‑escalation techniques, and manual restraint procedures as trained.
• Maintain a clean, safe, structured living environment; assist with daily living skills, household cleaning tasks, activities, transportation, and community engagement.
• Accurately document services, behavioral observations, health concerns, and program activities using electronic systems (T‑logs, Therap, health tracking).
• Monitor behavioral changes, identify escalation indicators, and communicate proactively with supervisors and team members during crisis or safety situations.
• Support family and personal contacts, assist with appointments, medication administration tasks (as allowed), and follow all medical and nutrition plans.
• Provide feedback on individuals’ needs while modeling positive, professional behavior.
• Maintain home safety, follow emergency procedures, and ensure compliance with protocols and individual support plans.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED
• 2 years' experience providing mental or behavioral health services
• Must be at least 18 years of age; some programs require employees to be 21 years of age or older
• Valid driver’s license and proof of auto insurance
• Basic computer skills and ability to use electronic documentation systems

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods
• Ability to safely manage physically demanding situations

Skills & Abilities

• Follow behavior support plans, treatment plans, functional assessments, and person-centered plans
• Use crisis prevention, de‑escalation, redirection, and manual restraints as trained
• Communicate clearly and professionally in writing and verbally, including documentation
• Work effectively in crisis situations and exercise sound judgmentCollaborate with team members and external partners (case managers, law enforcement, mental health professionals)
• Demonstrate strong problem‑solving, consistency, time‑management, and independent prioritization skills

If you’re passionate about making a difference, we want to hear from you! At Dungarvin, we support one another and provide the training and tools you need to succeed. Join our team and help us empower individuals to lead their best lives.

Apply Today—Be Part of Something Truly Special!

We believe in supporting not only those we serve but also each other, ensuring a collaborative and supportive work environment for all. Dungarvin is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, protected veteran status, disability, genetic information, national origin, age, gender identity, sexual orientation, or any legally protected status per federal and/or state law.