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Behavioral Health Tech Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

... technology institution in the world. As we continue to develop and grow in the fields of ... Floats to all units as needed to provide observations for all behavioral health patients. Assure ...

Mental Health Tech

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18.54 - $20.53/hr

... technology institution in the world. As we continue to develop and grow in the fields of ... Floats to all units as needed to provide observations for all behavioral health patients. Assure ...

Behavioral Healthcare experience is highly desirable. * Strong communication and critical thinking skills * Commitment to compassionate patient-focused care Benefits * Comprehensive Health Insurance ...

Mental Health tech

Chicago, IL · On-site

$19 - $24/hr

Behavioral Healthcare experience is highly desirable. * Strong communication and critical thinking skills * Commitment to compassionate patient-focused care Benefits * Comprehensive Health Insurance ...

Behavioral Healthcare experience is highly desirable. * Strong communication and critical thinking skills * Commitment to compassionate patient-focused care Benefits * Comprehensive Health Insurance ...

Mental Health tech

Chicago, IL · On-site

$19 - $24/hr

Behavioral Healthcare experience is highly desirable. * Strong communication and critical thinking skills * Commitment to compassionate patient-focused care Benefits * Comprehensive Health Insurance ...

MENTAL HEALTH TECH-ADULT

Merrillville, IN · On-site

$16.75 - $22.50/hr

OverviewUnder supervision, to perform work involving the delivery of basic services and care to behavioral health patients. Performs selected patient care activities under the supervision of a ...

MENTAL HEALTH TECH-ADULT

Merrillville, IN · On-site

$16.75 - $22.50/hr

Overview Under supervision, to perform work involving the delivery of basic services and care to behavioral health patients. Performs selected patient care activities under the supervision of a ...

Showing results 21-40

Behavioral Health Tech information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$12

$18

$24

How much do behavioral health tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for behavioral health tech in Chicago, IL is $18.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $19.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a behavioral health tech?

A Behavioral Health Tech, also known as a Behavioral Health Technician or mental health technician, is a professional who assists in the care and treatment of patients with behavioral, mental health, or substance abuse issues. They typically work under the supervision of psychiatrists, psychologists, or other mental health professionals, helping to implement treatment plans, monitor patient behaviors, and provide support during therapy sessions. Their responsibilities may also include facilitating group activities, documenting patient progress, and ensuring a safe and supportive environment for recovery.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a behavioral health tech?

To thrive as a Behavioral Health Tech, you need a background in psychology or a related field, basic medical knowledge, and often a certification such as Certified Behavioral Health Technician (CBHT). Familiarity with electronic health records (EHR) systems and crisis intervention tools is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, patience, and emotional resilience help you support patients and collaborate effectively with clinical teams. These abilities are vital for ensuring patient safety, fostering recovery, and maintaining a therapeutic environment.

What are some common challenges behavioral health techs face when working with patients, and how is support typically provided?

Behavioral Health Techs often encounter challenging situations such as de-escalating crises, managing aggressive behaviors, or supporting patients with complex mental health needs. These challenges require patience, strong communication skills, and the ability to remain calm under pressure. Most facilities provide ongoing training, regular supervision, and access to a multidisciplinary team—including nurses, therapists, and psychiatrists—to ensure techs have the support and resources they need to handle difficult scenarios and provide safe, effective care.

What is the difference between Behavioral Health Tech vs Mental Health Technician?

AspectBehavioral Health TechMental Health Technician
CertificationsOften requires CPR, First Aid, and sometimes state-specific behavioral health certificationsSimilar certifications, including CPR and First Aid, may be required
Work EnvironmentHospitals, mental health facilities, residential treatment centersPsychiatric hospitals, outpatient clinics, residential programs
Job ResponsibilitiesAssist clients with daily activities, monitor behavior, support treatment plansSupervise patients, assist with therapy activities, ensure safety
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly used in mental health and behavioral health settingsPrimarily in psychiatric and mental health facilities

Both roles involve supporting individuals with mental health needs, often requiring similar certifications and working in comparable environments. The main difference lies in terminology used by employers and slight variations in job responsibilities, but they are largely interchangeable in many settings.

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Behavioral Health Tech jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Behavioral Health Tech job openings:

Infographic showing various Behavioral Health Tech job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 5% Temporary. Highlights an 84% In-person, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,511 per year, or $18.5 per hour.

Behavioral Health Technician

Eating Recovery Center

Northbrook, IL • On-site

$18.25 - $22/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Eating Recovery Center rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Who We Are
At ERC Pathlight, we're on a mission to change lives-and we're looking for people who feel called to do the same.
As one of the nation's leading treatment providers for eating disorders and mood, anxiety, and trauma-related conditions, we bring innovative, evidence-based, and deeply compassionate care to patients across the country. With multiple locations nationwide and extensive virtual programming, we meet patients exactly where they are and help them move toward lasting recovery.
Founded in 2008 by renowned psychiatrists and psychologists, ERC Pathlight now supports more than 6,000 patients each year. And as the need for world-class mental health care continues to rise, our commitment is stronger than ever: to expand access, elevate the standard of care, and empower every patient to rebuild their life with dignity and hope.
Why Join Us
When you join ERC Pathlight, you become part of a team that shows up every day to make a real difference. You'll work alongside passionate clinicians, dedicated support staff, and mission-driven leaders who believe in collaboration, growth, and doing the right thing-always.
Here, your work matters. Your ideas matter. You matter.
If you're energized by purpose, motivated by impact, and ready to help transform the future of mental health treatment, you belong here.
Come build hope. Come save lives. Come grow with us.
What you'll be doing:
Schedule: part time 4pm to 10pm
The Behavioral Health Technician works under the supervision of the nursing department and is responsible for the direct care of inpatient and residential patients by providing patient supervision and support. The BHT provides support, structure and boundaries. They provide bathroom and mealtime support as well as contribute to the implementation of therapeutic programming. The BHT may be required to participate in on-call shifts based on business needs, in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local labor laws.
Essential duties and responsibilities:
  • Milieu management, including the following:
  • Maintains daily program structure, by following program schedule
  • Completes observation rounds and safety checks as ordered by physician
  • Works with patients on de-escalation and implementing coping skills per treatment plan
  • Conducts room searches and luggage searches
  • Takes patients out on fresh air breaks
  • Provides patient transportation as needed for medical appointments (may vary by location and program)
  • Takes patient vital signs, weights, urine Specific Gravity (may vary by location and program)
  • Act as secondary support staff in group therapy (may vary by location and program)
  • Provides meal support and bathroom monitoring
  • Completes documentation of patient observations, meals and individual check-ins that occur during shift
  • Assists with morning routine and Activities of Daily Living while patients are in spa/bathroom
BHT I must haves:
  • High school diploma or GED (required)
  • Valid driver's license with safe driving record (this requirement is only for locations that have company vehicles or locations that drive on behalf of the company)
  • 6 months of direct patient care experience (preferred)
  • Mental Health/Psych Tech, CNA (preferred)
BHT II must haves:
  • High school diploma or GED (required)
  • New hires: 1 year of direct patient care experience (required)
  • Valid driver's license with safe driving record (this requirement is only for locations that have company vehicles or locations that drive on behalf of the company)
  • Mental Health/Psych Tech, CNA (preferred)
  • Minimum of 1 year of ERC milieu experience (required, for internal teammates only)

#ERC
The compensation range for this position is based upon candidate experience and market expectations.
Illinois Pay Range
$18.25-$22 USD
What We Offer
At ERC Pathlight, caring for people is our mission and that begins with caring for our own team. Your well-being matters, and our benefit program is designed to support every part of your life.
We offer competitive compensation; comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage; generous Paid Time Off; Parental Leave benefits; Retirement benefits; and tuition reimbursement to help you continue growing in your career.
We also recognize that mental health is part of every person's experience. That's why we strive to create a workplace where you feel supported, seen, and encouraged-personally, professionally, and at home.
When you thrive, you can do your best work. And your best work changes lives.

What Eating Recovery Center employees say

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