Job Description

Behavioral Health Technician

(Recovery Support Specialist)

Location: Pawnee Behavioral Health – Oklahoma
Reports To: BHT Supervisor
Status: Full-Time, Part-Time, or Weekend Shifts
Shifts: 2nd Shift (2:00pm–10:30pm) | Night (10:00pm–6:30am)

General Description

The Behavioral Health Technician (or Recovery Support Specialist) supports clients throughout their treatment journey by maintaining a structured, safe, and trauma-informed environment. This role provides daily living support, assists with admissions, monitors client behavior, facilitates groups, and responds to crises in alignment with Pawnee Behavioral Health standards and culturally responsive practices. The Technician works closely with clinical, medical, and administrative teams to promote healing, uphold dignity, and ensure high-quality client care.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Provide a comprehensive orientation to new clients, including program rules, expectations, daily schedules, and a facility tour.
• Complete admissions tasks including belongings searches, documentation, client photos, and consent review.
• Support clients with daily routines and reinforce treatment goals throughout the shift.
• Conduct behavioral observations, perform rounds, and document timely and accurate progress notes.
• Facilitate or co-facilitate educational, recreational, and life-skills groups as assigned.
• Complete urine drug screens, breathalyzers, and basic vital signs in accordance with protocol.
• Use trauma-informed, culturally respectful de-escalation techniques when responding to behavioral issues; communicate safety concerns promptly.
• Complete incident reports thoroughly and on time.
• Transport clients to approved appointments, meetings, and community activities while ensuring safety and professionalism.
• Support meal routines, housekeeping tasks, and general facility upkeep to promote a therapeutic physical environment.
• Serve as a positive role model, demonstrating professionalism, strong boundaries, and cultural humility.
• Maintain confidentiality in accordance with HIPAA, 42 CFR Part 2, and Pawnee Behavioral Health policies.
• Participate in team meetings and collaborate with clinical and medical staff on client needs.
• Perform additional duties assigned by the Recovery Supervisor or leadership team.

Qualifications

Required

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Ability to obtain CPR/First Aid certification within 30 days of hire.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to maintain firm, professional boundaries.
• Ability to respond calmly and appropriately during crises.

Preferred

• Certified Peer Recovery Support Specialist (CPRSS) or similar certification.
• One year of experience in behavioral health, residential treatment, or a related field.
• Experience working with individuals with substance use disorders or co-occurring conditions.
• Familiarity with recovery models including 12-Step, harm reduction, or culturally grounded healing frameworks.
• Experience working with tribal communities or programs serving Indigenous populations.

Key Competencies

• Trauma-Informed Care: Understands how trauma impacts behavior; responds with structure, compassion, and emotional safety.
• Communication: Uses clear, respectful communication with clients, colleagues, and community partners.
• Crisis Response & De-escalation: Applies non-violent crisis intervention skills and maintains calm under pressure.
• Professional Boundaries: Demonstrates ethical behavior, cultural respect, and appropriate limits.
• Team Collaboration: Works effectively with clinical, medical, administrative, and cultural support teams.
• Dependability: Follows through on responsibilities and maintains reliable attendance.
• Cultural Competence: Shows awareness and respect for diverse cultural backgrounds, with specific sensitivity to Native American traditions, values, and community dynamics.

Work Conditions

• Work is performed in a residential treatment environment with frequent client interaction.
• Requires walking, standing, bending, and the ability to lift up to 25 lbs.
• May encounter individuals experiencing withdrawal, emotional distress, or behavioral escalation.
• May be required to transport clients using company vehicles.
• Must be available for scheduled shifts, including evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.

Performance Expectations

• Complete documentation timely and accurately.
• Demonstrate ethical conduct, professionalism, and compliance with all policies.
• Support a clean, safe, and therapeutic environment.
• Engage clients with cultural humility, compassion, and consistency.
• Communicate concerns promptly to clinical or supervisory staff.
• Uphold Pawnee Behavioral Health’s mission and commitment to high-quality, culturally responsive care.

Reasonable Accommodations (ADA Statement)

Pawnee Behavioral Health provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with applicable laws. If you require accommodation to perform the essential functions of this position, please notify your supervisor or Human Resources. Requests will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Statement

Pawnee Behavioral Health is committed to equal employment opportunity for all employees and applicants. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected category under federal, state, or tribal law.

American Indian/Native American Preference

In accordance with the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Section VII, and organizational policy, preference in hiring is given to qualified applicants who are enrolled members of a federally recognized tribe.

Veteran Preference

Pawnee Behavioral Health also provides preference to eligible U.S. military veterans with an honorable or general discharge.