Technician, Behavioral Health

LOCATION: Wayne County Adult Correction Facility - Detroit, MI 48211

POSITION SUMMARY: The Mental Health Technician plays a critical role in supporting the mental health and well-being of incarcerated individuals at the Wayne County Criminal Justice Complex. The technician will be responsible for maintaining constant watch over inmates identified as suicidal or at high risk of self-harm, ensuring their safety and emotional stability. When not assigned to constant watch duties, the technician will engage inmates in structured, therapeutic activities to promote social interaction and mental stimulation.

KEY RESPONSIBLITIES:

Suicide Watch and Risk Monitoring (For inmates placed on Constant Watch):

• Provide one-on-one, continuous supervision of inmates placed on suicide watch or identified as high-risk for self-harm.
• Observe and document inmate behavior, interactions, and any changes in mood or risk level.
• Immediately report concerns or behavioral changes to licensed clinical staff and security personnel.
• Follow suicide prevention protocols and ensure the safety of the inmate and the environment.

Engagement and Therapeutic Activities:

• Facilitate and encourage participation in games, conversations, and structured recreational activities designed to reduce      isolation and promote mental stimulation.
• Establish a supply of MHU approved games, reading materials, paper activities, such as word searches etc., and facilitate availability and distribution.
• Support the therapeutic environment by building rapport and maintaining professional, empathetic communication with      inmates.
• Assist clinical staff in implementing mental health strategies that foster emotional well-being.
• Assist MHP’s and MAT Counselors with setting up group activities including collecting inmates and organizing the physical environment as needed.
• Other milieu supportive activities as assigned by the Mental Health Director.

Collaboration and Communication:

• Work collaboratively with clinical, medical, and custody staff to ensure coordinated care and consistent communication.
• Participate in briefings and debriefings regarding inmate mental health status and risk assessments specifically for, but not      limited to, inmates ordered on Q 15 watch.
• Maintain accurate, timely documentation of interactions and observations in accordance with departmental protocols

SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS:

- Clerical: Knowledge of administrative and clerical procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, designing forms, and other office procedures and terminology.

- Customer and Personal Service: Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.

- Administration and Management: Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources

- Active Listening & Learning: Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times. Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.

EDUCATION AND CERTIFICATIONS:

• High school diploma or equivalent (required).
• At least 1 yr. of experience in behavioral health, corrections, or crisis care setting (required).
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to remain calm and observant in high-stress environments (required).
• Basic knowledge of mental health and suicide prevention principles (required).
• Associate degree or coursework in psychology, social work, criminal justice, or a related field (preferred).
• Prior experience working in a correctional facility or with justice-involved individuals (preferred).  

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: 

• Sitting/Standing - This position requires the employee to sit for extended periods, with occasional standing and walking.
• Dexterity - Requires sufficient hand-eye coordination to operate office equipment such as computers and telephones.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: 

• Must pass a background check and security clearance for work within the Criminal Justice Complex.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays

WORK ENVIRONMENT: Office setting with minimal exposure to adverse environmental conditions.

Salary: $20.75 hourly 

Employment Type: Part-Time

Classification: Non-exempt (hourly)
 

Application Deadline: July 25, 2025. 

Please contact SEMHA HR Department @ (313) 873-6500 if you need assistance to upload resume, cover letter, and/or make application online.