Mental Health Technician – Youth Behavioral Health
Location: New Hope, MI (New Hope Youth Center)
Job Type: Full-Time, Must be open to working any shift and at least one shift every weekend.
Pay: $20.00 per hour
About Youth Opportunity & New Hope Youth Center
Youth Opportunity is a nationally recognized leader in residential and behavioral health treatment for at-risk youth. Our New Hope Youth Center in New Hope, Michigan provides trauma-informed short-term and long-term residential treatment for females ages 10 to 17 who have experienced abuse or neglect. Youth may present with mental health or behavioral needs requiring care in a structured, therapeutic environment.
The program offers individualized mental health and substance abuse treatment through individual, family, and group therapy, along with life skills and social skills development. Services are provided in a caring, supportive setting focused on ensuring the safety and well-being of youth at all times. The average length of stay depends on progress toward individualized treatment goals and readiness for aftercare placement.
Mental Health Technician Benefits
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) with up to 4% employer match with Immediate Vesting
- Paid time off (PTO) and holidays – earn 4 hours of PTO every pay period
- Free RX delivery on most medications
- Tuition reimbursement and professional development
- Robust Employee Assistance Program
- Supportive, mission-driven work environment
Why Join Youth Opportunity?
- Be part of a team making a difference in the lives of vulnerable youth
- Gain experience in a growing field of youth mental health and residential care
- Work in a secure, structured, and supportive treatment environment
- Develop your skills through training, mentorship, and advancement opportunities
Mental Health Technician Responsibilities:
- Supervise a group of 7-10 youth through activities during waking and non-waking hours
- Provide a safe, secure environment using group counseling techniques, positive discipline, and crisis intervention as needed
- Represent each youth’s needs and accomplishments to the treatment team
- Lead group meetings and encourage peer support and accountability
- Assist teachers in delivering classroom content and transferring study skills to daily routines
- Facilitate and encourage structured activities that support treatment goals
- Document shift occurrences, headcounts, and referrals for medical needs
- Support with transporting youth and maintain security and supervision protocols
Additional Responsibilities:
- Participate in training and development activities
- Report incidents or concerns regarding youth safety or conduct
- Perform other duties as assigned
Requirements:
Education:
- Two years of college coursework in social or human services preferred
- High school diploma or equivalent required
Experience:
- Two years of experience working with youth preferred
Skills:
- Strong verbal and interpersonal communication
- Ability to work effectively in group settings
- Proficiency in crisis intervention methods (training provided)
- Solid documentation and observation skills
Physical Demands:
- Ability to lift 30 lbs. and actively supervise youth in various environments
- Respond quickly to emergencies, apply physical restraint if needed
- Engage in activities indoors and outdoors in varying conditions
Other:
- Valid driver’s license required
- Must meet state criminal background check requirements
Youth Opportunity Investments is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
