About this role
The Behavioral Health Lead provides both direct client care and informal leadership within the residential treatment setting. In addition to supporting clients with daily living, safety, and recovery routines, this role ensures shift operations run smoothly by coordinating staff assignments, monitoring adherence to program expectations, and serving as the first point of contact during incidents. The RSS Lead provides onboarding, training, and mentoring to new team members, reinforcing trauma-informed care, boundaries, de-escalation, and adherence to facility standards. This role acts as a bridge between frontline staff and supervisors, fostering a structured and recovery oriented environment that prioritizes patient safety, dignity, and engagement.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
-Lead shift huddles, assign daily duties, and ensure adequate staffing coverage.
-Organize and oversee transportation schedules for client appointments, activities, and transitions.
-Provide onboarding, coaching, and support to new staff, train team members on shift routines, client engagement, and facility expectations.
-Mentor peers in boundary-setting, crisis de-escalation, and patient experience standards.
-Serve as the first point of contact for incident response, coordinating appropriate escalation and documentation.
-Monitor staff adherence to schedules, shift routines, and program expectations.
-Support AMA “swat team” interventions to reduce client attrition.
-Provide Certified Medication Aide (CMA) support if credentialed.
-Report operational needs, staffing gaps, and incidents to the Supervisor in a timely and professional manner.
-Model professionalism, teamwork, and trauma-informed care in all interactions with clients and staff.
-Perform other duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS AND KNOWLEDGE
Required
High school diploma or equivalent
Must obtain First Aid/CPR within 30 days of hire.
Valid driver’s license required; must meet all state-specific licensing requirements and be eligible to transport patients in accordance with state regulations and company policy. Must maintain an acceptable driving record.
Preferred
-Certification as a Peer Recovery Support Specialist (PRSS).
-Medication Technician/Medication Aide state certification preferred
-Experience training, mentoring, or onboarding new staff.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
Required
-High school diploma or equivalent.
-Previous experience as a Behavioral Health Technician for 1 year or in a direct care behavioral health role.
-Strong organizational and communication skills with the ability to coordinate staff and client needs.
-Demonstrated ability to de-escalate crises, maintain professional boundaries, and model recovery-oriented behavior.
-Valid driver’s license required; must meet all state-specific licensing requirements and be maintain an acceptable driving record.
KEY COMPETENCIES
-Leadership & role modeling
-Team coordination & organizational skills
-Coaching and mentoring
-Crisis management & de-escalation expertise
-Strong communication & problem-solving abilities
-Commitment to trauma-informed and patient-centered care
WORK CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL AND MENTAL REQUIREMENTS
Work Environment: Indoor, climate-controlled clinical setting
Physical Demands: Regular walking, sitting, and standing; use of hands for data entry and care;
lifting or repositioning (up to 50 lbs. with assistance)
Cognitive/Emotional Requirements
-Respond calmly during emergencies or conflict
-Prioritize multiple urgent tasks under pressure
-Sustain focus during client interactions and documentation
-Maintain professionalism in emotionally charged situations
PERFORMANCE EXPECTATIONS
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Demonstrates reliable attendance and punctuality.
Recognized as a “go-to” staff member and trusted shift leader.
Effectively trains and supports new team members.
Maintains calm, professional presence during crises or incidents.
Models’ adherence to program expectations, boundaries, and client engagement best practices.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY STATEMENT
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and value diversity and inclusion. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.