Behavioral Health Tech

Behavioral Health Tech

Behavioral Health Technician (BHT)

Location : Boone, North Carolina | Full-Time | 7 : 00am - 7 : 00pm

Why You’ll Love Working Here

As a Behavioral Health Technician (BHT) at UNC Health Appalachian , you’ll play a vital role in supporting licensed nursing staff and ensuring a safe, compassionate, and therapeutic environment for behavioral health patients. You’ll contribute directly to patient safety, emotional well-being, and quality care while helping maintain a respectful and healing atmosphere for individuals in crisis or recovery.

• Compensation : Starting pay begins at $17.87 per hour , with competitive rates based on experience and education.
• Schedule : Full-time, variable shifts including nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Benefits : Comprehensive medical / dental / vision coverage, retirement with employer match, paid time off, tuition reimbursement, paid parental leave, wellness incentives, and employee discounts.

What You’ll Do as a Behavioral Health Technician

Support licensed nurses in delivering safe, compassionate, and effective patient care within defined scope.

Promote a therapeutic, respectful, and patient-centered environment in behavioral health settings.

Communicate effectively with patients, families, nursing staff, physicians, and interdisciplinary teams.

Monitor patient behavior, document observations, and notify clinical staff of changes in condition.

Assist with daily living activities, de-escalation techniques, and crisis response under supervision.

Follow all UNC Health Appalachian policies, safety guidelines, and regulatory standards.

Support team members by completing assigned clinical and non-clinical tasks that enhance patient care.

Qualifications

Education :

High school diploma or GED required.

Experience :

Previous experience as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) preferred.

Licenses / Certifications :

Basic Life Support (BLS), American Heart Association — required at hire.

CPI (Crisis Prevention Intervention) — required within 1 year of hire.

North Carolina CNA certification preferred.

Skills & Abilities :

Understanding of the Behavioral Health Technician scope of practice.

Strong communication skills and the ability to build rapport with patients and care teams.

Ability to deliver safe, effective patient care following policies and procedures.

Basic computer proficiency including EMR usage and documentation.

Commitment to exceptional customer service and teamwork.

Physical & Work Environment

What Sets Us Apart

Ready to make a meaningful impact in behavioral health?

Apply today to join UNC Health Appalachian and help create a safe, compassionate, and therapeutic environment for patients and families.

About UNC Health Appalachian

It's official - UNC Health Appalachian earned an "A" in the fall 2023 Leapfrog Patient Safety Grades! UNC Health Appalachian, the leader for healthcare in the High Country, comprises three hospitals, 13 medical practices, Seby B. Jones Regional Cancer Center, The Rehabilitation Center, and Appalachian Regional Healthcare Foundation. UNC Health Appalachian stays committed to promoting health in the High Country, enhancing quality of life, and simply “ making life better.”

About UNC Health

UNC Health is a state entity and an affiliated enterprise of the University of North Carolina system, comprised of 14 hospitals, 18 hospital campuses and more than 500 clinics along with the clinical patient care programs of the UNC School of Medicine (SOM). It exists to improve the health and well-being of North Carolinians and others we serve and to further the teaching mission of the University of North Carolina SOM. Over the past three years, UNC Health has provided more than $400 million in uncompensated or charity care to the citizens of North Carolina. Our hospitals have received numerous awards and recognition for quality care, patient safety and the overall patient experience. For more information, please visit unchealth.org.

UNC Health Appalachian embraces diversity and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected status. We value a workforce that reflects a variety of backgrounds and perspectives, as it enhances our ability to provide outstanding care. We welcome and encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and experiences. UNC Health Appalachian is committed to providing a fair and inclusive hiring process and a workplace where all team members feel respected and empowered. If you require accommodations during the application process, please contact us.

Employment at UNC Health Appalachian is contingent upon successful completion of a background and drug screen. For accommodations or additional information, contact arhsrecruitment@unchealth.unc.edu .

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