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Behavioral Health Worker Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Behavioral Health Worker I

Nevada City, CA ยท Hybrid

$50K - $61K/yr

We are currently seeking Behavioral Health Workers (BHWs) for the Nevada County Behavioral Health Department HOME Team. Please be sure to apply for all levels (BHW I, II, and III) which you may be ...

One year of experience working in a psychiatric setting with patients aged 10-18yrs preferred * College student who has obtained or are pursuing their degree in behavioral health, psychology, nursing ...

Mental Health Technician - Full Time

Kouts, IN ยท On-site

$15 - $20.25/hr

One year of experience working in a psychiatric setting with patients aged 10-18yrs preferred * College student who has obtained or are pursuing their degree in behavioral health, psychology, nursing ...

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Behavioral Health Worker information

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$13

$22

$35

How much do behavioral health worker jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for behavioral health worker in the United States is $22.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $28.37 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the meaning of behaviour?

In the context of a behavioral health worker, behavior refers to the observable actions or responses of individuals, often influenced by psychological, environmental, or social factors. Understanding behavior is essential for assessment and intervention in mental health and behavioral issues. It involves observing, recording, and analyzing actions to develop effective treatment plans.

What are Behavioral Health Workers?

Behavioral Health Workers are professionals who assist individuals dealing with mental health issues, emotional problems, or substance abuse. They provide support through direct care, counseling, crisis intervention, and helping clients access community resources. These workers often collaborate with social workers, therapists, and medical professionals to create comprehensive care plans. Their primary goal is to empower clients toward recovery, improve coping skills, and enhance overall well-being.

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

AspectBehavioral Health WorkerMental Health Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles require certification or trainingHigh school diploma; certification may be preferred
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, community agencies, residential facilitiesHospitals, psychiatric units, residential treatment centers
Job DutiesProviding support, counseling, and assistance with daily activitiesMonitoring patients, assisting with treatment plans, observing behaviors
Industry UsageCommonly employed in mental health and social servicesPrimarily in psychiatric and inpatient settings

Both roles support mental health patients, but Behavioral Health Workers often have broader responsibilities including counseling and community outreach, while Mental Health Technicians focus more on patient monitoring and assisting clinical staff in inpatient settings.

What is a behavioral example?

A behavioral example in a behavioral health worker role illustrates how a client responds to specific situations or interventions, demonstrating their progress or challenges. These examples are used to assess behaviors, develop treatment plans, and track improvements over time. Documenting clear, concrete behavioral examples helps in evaluating client outcomes and adjusting care strategies accordingly.

Which is correct, behavioral or behavioural?

Both 'behavioral' and 'behavioural' are correct spellings of the same word, with 'behavioral' being the standard in American English and 'behavioural' in British English. For a Behavioral Health Worker role, use the spelling consistent with your regional language or the organization's style guide.

What does behavioral mean?

In the context of a behavioral health worker, 'behavioral' refers to actions, reactions, and patterns of conduct that are studied or addressed in mental health and behavioral therapy. The role involves understanding and helping clients modify behaviors related to mental health conditions, often using techniques like counseling, assessment, and intervention. Knowledge of behavioral theories and skills in communication are essential for this job.

What are some common challenges Behavioral Health Workers face when supporting clients in crisis situations?

Behavioral Health Workers often encounter clients experiencing acute emotional distress or behavioral crises, which can be unpredictable and emotionally demanding. Managing these situations requires de-escalation skills, patience, and the ability to remain calm under pressure. Workers must balance empathy with professional boundaries while collaborating closely with clinical teams to ensure client safety. Continuous training and access to support from supervisors and colleagues are integral to navigating these challenges successfully.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Behavioral Health Worker, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Behavioral Health Worker, you need a background in psychology, social work, or a related field, often supported by a relevant degree or certification. Familiarity with electronic health records (EHRs), crisis intervention techniques, and behavioral assessment tools is typically required. Compassion, strong interpersonal communication, and resilience are essential soft skills for building trust and supporting clients through challenging situations. These skills and qualifications are vital to effectively assist clients, ensure safety, and promote positive behavioral change in diverse environments.
What cities are hiring for Behavioral Health Worker jobs? Cities with the most Behavioral Health Worker job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Behavioral Health Worker jobs? The top employers for Behavioral Health Worker jobs are:
What states have the most Behavioral Health Worker jobs? States with the most job openings for Behavioral Health Worker jobs include:
Infographic showing various Behavioral Health Worker job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,439 per year, or $22.8 per hour.
Behavioral Health Worker I

Behavioral Health Worker I

County of Nevada, CA

Grass Valley, CA โ€ข On-site

$50K - $61K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Salary : $50,630.16 - $61,809.00 Annually
Location : 500 Crown Point Circle, Grass Valley, CA 95945, CA
Job Type: Full Time
Job Number: 2026-0135
Department: Behavioral Health
Opening Date: 06/25/2026
Closing Date: 7/10/2026 8:00 AM Pacific
Definition and Class Characteristics
Interested in joining a fast-paced work environment filled with caring professionals dedicated to improving the lives of vulnerable community members experiencing behavioral health and/or substance use disorders? The Nevada County Behavioral Health Department is currently hiring Behavioral Health Workers to support client success!
We are currently seeking Behavioral Health Workers (BHWs) for the Nevada County Behavioral Health Department HOME Team.
Please be sure to apply for all levels (BHW I, II, and III) which you may be qualified for.
Examples of Duties
Behavioral Health Workers (BHWs) are often referred to as 'Case Managers' and perform a variety of duties depending on which unit / division they are assigned to. You will have the opportunity to specify which unit / division you are interested in working with on your application, or indicate 'No preference' if you wish to be considered for opportunities in all units / divisions.
  • Behavioral Health Workers in Adult Behavioral Health provide client-centered care coordination and support for adults experiencing mental health or co-occurring needs. They help clients stabilize and work toward recovery by connecting them with therapy, psychiatry, housing, benefits, and community resources. Through outreach and ongoing engagement, case managers assist clients in navigating services, monitor progress toward goals, and collaborate with clinical teams and partners to promote safety, stability, and overall well-being.
  • At Children's Behavioral Health, our Behavioral Health Workers provide individual, family, and group services that support children and families in building skills, achieving goals, and improving overall well-being. They connect clients and families with community resources and supports while teaching important life skills such as social skills, healthy recreation, independent living, anger management, and other skills that promote positive development and success.
  • HOME (Homeless Outreach and Medical Engagement) Team Behavioral Health Workers provide intensive, client-centered wraparound services to individuals experiencing chronic homelessness, helping them achieve stability and improved quality of life. Through outreach in shelters, day centers, encampments, and community settings, case managers connect clients to housing navigation, medical and mental health providers as well as substance use treatment services.
  • Substance Use Disorder (SUD Team) Behavioral Health Workers serving as Substance Use Disorder Care Coordinators provide care coordination, individual support, and group services to help clients achieve recovery goals and improve overall well-being. They connect clients with treatment, housing, benefits, and community resources while teaching skills that support relapse prevention, healthy decision-making, and sustained recovery.

Education and Experience Required
Equivalent to the completion of twelfth grade and experience working in a social work, behavioral health or substance abuse program dealing with individual's emotional and mental problems. Completion of college course work from an accredited college or university in psychology, social work, counseling or related field is preferred.
Our full-time staff members enjoy an extensive benefit package including but not limited to a generous leave program, 11 standard holidays and 3 floating holidays, CalPERS retirement, medical insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, life insurance, flexible spending accounts for medical and dependent care expenses, and a deferred compensation plan including 401(a), 457(b), and Roth options. Nevada County is a qualifying employer for the program (https://studentaid.gov/manage-loans/forgiveness-cancellation/public-service) through the Department of Education. And because we care about work-life balance, we also offer flexible schedules and telework options to our staff depending on program needs!
Why Nevada County?
Because here, your contribution, your worth, your ideas, all have a place. We thrive on transparent and ongoing communication through employee newsletters, social media and hosted sites. We strive to be the best version of ourselves through continuous improvement. We learn and grow as a team. Great discoveries happen when people from a diverse set of backgrounds come together. Best of all, you make a difference in the lives of our community every day. Bring your whole self to our place.
We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided with reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.
Benefits Guide
The is a comprehensive document for employees of the County of Nevada. Information contained in this summary of benefits is not a binding document. Refer to specific unit for additional benefit information.
Health Insurance
The County sponsored plan is the PERS Gold PPO, but you can also choose plans from providers such as Anthem, Blue Shield, and PORAC (if you are a member) to suit your needs.
Health Insurance Plans
  • Anthem Blue Cross Select HMO
  • Anthem Blue Cross Traditional HMO
  • Blue Shield CalPERS Access+ HMO
  • Blue Shield Trio HMO
  • Kaiser HMO
  • PERS Gold PPO (County sponsored plan)
  • PERS Platinum PPO
  • PORAC (Available to PORAC members only)
Flexible Spending Accounts
The County offers employees the option to contribute to a pre-tax medical FSA and dependent Care FSA.
Life Insurance
Voya is the County's life insurance provider. We offer the following products through Voya:
  • Basic Accidental Death and Dismemberment
  • Basic Term Life
  • Optional Accidental Death and Dismemberment plans
  • Optional Dependent Term Life
  • Optional Term Life
Dental & Vision Insurance
Nevada County employees can opt to receive dental and vision insurance without opting for health insurance coverage as well. This will give employees more flexibility to match their choice of insurance plans to their specific needs. Ameritas Dental is the dental provider offered through Nevada County and Ameritas VSP Vision Care is our vision care provider.
Retirement
The County is a member of the CalPERS retirement system and also provides the opportunity for voluntary contributions to a 457 deferred compensation account through Nationwide by way of pre-tax and Roth payroll deductions.
CalPERS Miscellaneous Tiers: Tier 1 (Classic-former employee originally hired on or before 12/13/12 and are returning to Nevada County) 2.7% @ 55 Tier 2 (Hired by a CalPERS employer between 12/14/12-12/31/12 and coming to Nevada County with less than 6 months between separation from former CalPERS employer and hire date with Nevada County) 2%@60 Tier 3 (Hired by first CalPERS employer on or after 1/1/13 or having a break in service of more than six months between another CalPERS employer and Nevada County) 2%@62
CalPERS Safety tiers: Tier 1 (Classic-former employees originally hired on or before 12/13/12 and are returning to Nevada County) 3% @ 50. Tier 2 (Hired by a CalPERS employer between 7/2411-12/31/12 and coming to Nevada County with less than 6-months between separation from former CalPERS employer and hire date with Nevada County) 3% @ 55. Tier 3 (Hired by any CalPERS employer on or after 1/1/13) 2.7% @ 57. We encourage you to visit the CalPERS home page, , to search related information about the retirement plans noted here so that you fully understand what your retirement formula means to you.
NEVADA COUNTY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
Any information on this page or documents and links are subject to change without notice.
Nevada County Human Resources Department
950 Maidu Avenue, Nevada City, CA 95959 (530) 265-7010 option 2
Human.resources@nevadacountyca.gov
www.nevadacountyca.gov
01
Which of the following choices best describes your level of education? Please attach a copy of your college level transcripts (unofficial are accepted) or degree to your application.
  • Did not graduate high school or obtain GED
  • High school or GED
  • Some college: 0-59 units
  • Some college: 60-89 units
  • Some college: 90-119 units
  • Associate's Degree
  • Bachelor's Degree
  • Master's Degree

02
Please let us know the major subject area of your college education.
  • Business Administration/Accounting/Economics/Finance
  • Criminal Justice
  • Public Administration/Public Health
  • Health related, Nursing
  • Social Sciences
  • Psychology/Counseling/Behavioral Health
  • Other
  • Not applicable - No college-level coursework

03
Which of the following best describes your years of experience providing substance abuse and counseling services to adults with emotional, mental, and/or substance abuse problems?
  • No experience
  • Less than 1 year
  • 1 year
  • 2 years
  • 3 years
  • 4 years
  • 5 or more years

04
Do you possess certification by an organization accredited by the State of California to provide drug and alcohol counseling? This includes completion of educational coursework necessary to provide drug and alcohol counseling. If so, please attach your certification and associated transcripts to your application.
  • Yes, I am a certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor from a State of California accredited organization.
  • No, I am not a certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor.

05
If you are a certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor, how many years of experience do you have providing services while being certified?
  • Not Applicable-I do not have this certification
  • Less than 1 year
  • 1 to 2 years
  • 2 - 3 years
  • 3 - 4 years
  • 4 - 5 years
  • 5 or more years

06
The ability to speak, read, and write in Spanish in addition to English would be an asset in this position, but is not required. Applicants for English/Spanish bilingual designation must take and pass the Spanish bilingual proficiency examination. Please let us know if you are Spanish bilingual.
  • I don't speak Spanish
  • I know some Spanish
  • I am fluent in Spanish

07
Please describe how you would work to engage and build relationships with people experiencing homelessness.
08
Which of the following best describes your years of experience providing services to adults in collaboration with the courts, probation, mental health & substance use agencies, Public Defenders, and other justice-involved agencies?
  • No experience
  • Less than one year
  • 1 year
  • 2 years
  • 3 years
  • 4 years
  • 5 or more years

09
Which of the following best describes your years of experience providing services to adults in the mental health system or in collaboration with local housing resources and landlords?
  • No experience
  • Less than one year
  • 1 year
  • 2 years
  • 3 years
  • 4 years
  • 5 or more years

10
Please describe your experience working in newly formed programs requiring flexibility to inform the practice.
11
If no experience, please describe your comfort level working in newly formed programs.
12
What is your experience level of performing assessments and services in a community based/field setting.
13
If no experience, please describe your comfort level with performing community-based assessments and services.
14
We often have openings in several units / divisions. Please select all divisions in which you are interested in working even if this recruitment is for a different division / unit.
  • Children's Behavioral Health
  • Forensic (SUD) Behavioral Health
  • Behavioral Health HOME Team
  • Adult Behavioral Health
  • No preference

Required Question