Behavioral Health Technician (BHT) – Float Pool

Role Overview: Mental Health Excellence

Join Essentia Health’s accomplished team at the Miller-Dwan Medical Center. As a Behavioral Health Technician (BHT) in the Float Pool, you will provide critical support to patients experiencing mental health symptoms across various units. This role is essential for maintaining patient safety, delivering compassionate care, and supporting clinical interventions in an integrated health system.

Core Responsibilities & Clinical Tasks

• Patient Observation: Monitoring patients with mental health symptoms and documenting behavioral changes to ensure safety and quality care.

• Clinical Assistance: Assisting the nursing and psychiatric staff with daily therapeutic activities and patient management.

• Float Pool Versatility: Being ready to support different behavioral health units as needed, providing a flexible and high-impact presence throughout the facility.

• Supportive Care: Utilizing de-escalation techniques and providing emotional support to patients in crisis.

Work Schedule & Rotation

• Shift Rotation: Day/Night Rotation (7:00 AM – 3:30 PM and 11:00 PM – 7:30 AM).

• Commitment: 64 hours per pay period (0.8 FTE) with “Every Other Weekend” obligations.

• Status: This is a union-represented position (USWA Technical Workers SMMC).

Required Qualifications

• Experience: 1 year of experience working with mental health symptoms OR a degree in a social services-related field.

• Certifications: Must be a Certified Peer Support Specialist in Minnesota or Wisconsin (or eligible). Completed psychology courses are preferred.

• Compliance: Must pass all state and federal regulatory background checks for healthcare workers.

Essentia Health Diversity & Inclusion

Essentia Health serves a broad region across Minnesota, Wisconsin, and North Dakota. Based on the 2024 healthcare workforce data for the Duluth area, the demographic representation includes:

• White: 84.2%

• Two or More Races: 5.1%

• Asian: 3.8%

• Black or African American: 2.9%

• Hispanic or Latino: 2.5% Essentia is committed to a diverse workforce that reflects the patients they serve, fostering a culture of well-being and growth.

Comprehensive Employee Benefits

• Health & Wellness: Medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance.

• Financial Future: 401(k) plan with employer contributions.

• Growth: Tuition Reimbursement, professional training, and educational programs.

• Support: Wellness resources focused on physical, mental, and emotional health.