Behavioral Health Technician
Listed compensation
$16-$19/hr
The week · per this posting · weekdays assumed
Ask the employer about the work setting, call expectations, weekend coverage and time off.
Job Description
- Job Location: 1700 EDUCATION AVE - PUNTA GORDA, FL 33950
- Position Type: Full Time
- Education Level: High School
- Salary Range: $16.00 - $19.00 Hourly
- Travel Percentage: Negligible
- Job Shift: Any
- Job Category: Health Care
Sign-on Bonus: $1,500 Position summary: Responds to supervisor, Lead BHT, and charge nurse on duty in order to continually monitor safety and interact appropriately with adult and adolescent patients on a 24/7 behavioral health care unit.
Assists with patient care management and records progress toward treatment plan objectives using the Electronic Health Record (EHR). Lead and monitor therapeutic groups and leisure and exercise activities. Record in EHR, as required.
Interacts respectfully and in a dignified manner with all patients, staff, visitors, etc. Complete intake/admission process: Security/safety checks. Conduct search of patient and belongings for contraband. Enter information into EHR. Complete inventory of personal belongings.
Explain consents and other documents required during admission and get patient and/or guardian signatures, as needed. Obtain and document vital signs.
Maintain general cleanliness of the unit, laundry, making beds, infection control routines, etc. Redirect patient(s) behavior in a firm, yet respectful manner, participate in verbal-de-escalation, and work as a team to implement Handle with Care (HWC) non-violent interventions to fidelity, when needed to assist Security Technicians.
Responsible for maintaining patient confidentiality (HIPAA and 42-CFR). Responsible for routine tasks around the unit, as directed by supervisor, Lead BHT, or charge nurse on duty. Attend staff meetings and trainings as requested by supervisor. Monitor patient behaviors and interactions.
Benefits Full-time Dental, vision, health, and life insurance. Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Employer sponsored contribution to Health Savings Account (HSA), with qualifying insurance plan. Paid Time Off (PTO). 11 paid holidays.
Must meet eligibility requirements 403b Retirement Plan, with 9% employer contribution for those who meet eligibility requirements.
Tuition reimbursement, Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) eligible, and Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) loan repayment eligible for qualifying staff Qualifications: Minimum Requirements: High School Diploma or equivalent.
One year of experience interacting directly with individuals in a behavioral health setting required. Able to manage stressful situations and display appropriate work demeanor and boundaries. Demonstrate excellent customer service.
Must maintain high standards of ethical and professional conduct, while adhering to agency policies and procedures. Strong oral and written communication skills. Ability to work both independently and as part of a team. Must be able to successfully complete and certify in Handle with Care training for all levels.
Ability to pass Level II Background clearance, drug test (CBHC is a drug free workplace) Valid FL driver’s license, insurance, and safe driving record For more information regarding the Level II Background Screening click here: info.flclearinghouse.com
Key Responsibilities
Monitor adult and adolescent patients’ safety and behavior, support patient care and treatment plans, and document progress and required information in the electronic health record. Complete admissions and safety checks, facilitate therapeutic and recreational activities, maintain the unit, and use respectful de-escalation and approved nonviolent interventions when needed.
Requirements
Requires a high school diploma or equivalent and at least one year of direct experience interacting with individuals in a behavioral health setting. Candidates must communicate effectively, work independently and as part of a team, complete Handle with Care certification, pass a Level II background check and drug test, and hold a valid Florida driver’s license with insurance and a safe driving record.
Qualifications
- Education
- Professional certificate or licensure
Key Skills
Behavioral Health Career Context
Of the 40 active Behavioral Health listings this role was benchmarked against, 73% have no call, 43% require no weekends.
Behavioral Health pay on WeekdayDoc is down 5.0% vs. the prior quarter (through Sep 2026).
| Measure | This job | Market |
|---|---|---|
| Listed pay | $33k–$40k | Behavioral Health median $40k (middle half $36k–$45k)37 comparable listings, Oct 2026 |
| Cost-of-living adjusted pay | ~$35k in purchasing power | Florida index 103.4 (US = 100)BEA Regional Price Parities (2024) |
| Behavioral Health listings in Florida | 94 active | 1,328 nationallylive on WeekdayDoc, Oct 2026 |
| Work setting | on-site | peers: 73% no call · 43% no weekends40 benchmarked listings |
| Behavioral Health pay trend | −5.0% vs prior quarter | —through Sep 2026 |
Location & Logistics
Florida has no state income tax, which can significantly increase take-home pay compared to high-tax states. At the posted ~$36k midpoint, that is roughly $1k–$3k a year versus a typical 4–7% state rate.
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