ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Psychiatric Assistant Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM (NOW HIRING)

Wexford Health Sources, Inc.

Psychiatrist

Los Lunas, NM · On-site

$200 - $250/hr

Provide psychiatric evaluations, diagnosis, treatment planning, and medication management for ... * Assist with program development, quality improvement initiatives, and compliance with ...

Chrysalis Psychiatry

Medical Assistant

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$20/hr

Chrysalis Psychiatry is a growing outpatient mental health practice in Albuquerque, New Mexico. We ... The Medical Assistant supports both clinical and front office operations to ensure efficient ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsPsychiatric JobsPsychiatric Assistant JobsPsychiatric Assistant Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM

Psychiatric Assistant information

See Rio Rancho, NM salary details

$11

$20

$32

How much do psychiatric assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for psychiatric assistant in Rio Rancho, NM is $20.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.30 and $24.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Are psych pas in demand?

Psychiatric assistants are in demand due to the growing need for mental health services and the expansion of behavioral health programs. Employment opportunities are expected to increase as healthcare facilities seek support staff to assist with patient care and treatment under supervision.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Psychiatric Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Psychiatric Assistant, you need foundational knowledge of mental health care, basic patient care skills, and at least a high school diploma or equivalent, with some employers preferring relevant certifications or coursework. Familiarity with electronic health records (EHRs), crisis intervention techniques, and safety protocols is typically required. Patience, strong observational abilities, and effective interpersonal communication help build rapport with patients and support clinical staff. These skills and qualities are vital for maintaining a safe, supportive environment and delivering effective care to individuals experiencing mental health challenges.

What are psychiatric assistants?

Psychiatric assistants are healthcare professionals who support nurses and doctors in caring for patients with mental health conditions. They assist with daily living activities, help maintain a safe environment, observe and report patient behavior, and may participate in therapeutic activities. Psychiatric assistants typically work in hospitals, mental health facilities, or residential treatment centers, playing a key role in supporting patients' emotional and physical well-being.

What Does a Psychiatric Assistant Do?

As a psychiatric assistant, your responsibilities involve supporting people with mental health issues at a mental health care facility. You provide basic medical care by monitoring vital signs and dispensing medications. Your duties include assisting patients with bathing, dressing, and eating. You aid in facility management by keeping patient rooms and common areas clean and safe. Finally, you work with the clinical staff to help patients learn coping and life skills through educational and recreational programs and provide transportation to and from group activities. Job qualifications include an interest in social work or psychology and a desire to help others.

What is the difference between Psychiatric Assistant vs Mental Health Technician?

AspectPsychiatric AssistantMental Health Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certificationHigh school diploma or equivalent; certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentHospitals, mental health clinics, psychiatric unitsHospitals, residential facilities, community mental health centers
Job DutiesAssist patients with daily activities, monitor behavior, support treatment plansAssist with patient care, observe and report patient progress, support therapeutic activities

Both Psychiatric Assistants and Mental Health Technicians work in mental health settings, providing patient support and care. While their roles overlap in assisting with daily activities and monitoring patients, Psychiatric Assistants often focus more on basic care and support, whereas Mental Health Technicians may have additional responsibilities in observing and reporting patient progress. Both roles typically require similar credentials and are employed in similar environments.

Do psychiatric aides wear scrubs?

Psychiatric aides typically wear scrubs or uniforms that are comfortable and easy to clean, suitable for a healthcare environment. Wearing scrubs helps maintain hygiene and allows staff to be easily identified by patients and colleagues. The specific attire may vary depending on the facility's dress code policies.

What is a psychiatric assistant?

A psychiatric assistant is a healthcare worker who supports mental health professionals by assisting with patient care, monitoring symptoms, and helping with daily activities in mental health facilities. They often work under supervision and may need basic training or certification in mental health support or patient care.

Do psych techs make more than CNAs?

Psychiatric technicians, or psych techs, generally earn higher wages than certified nursing assistants (CNAs) due to their specialized training and work in mental health settings. However, salaries can vary based on location, experience, and employer, with psych techs often requiring additional certifications or skills related to psychiatric care. Overall, psych techs tend to have higher pay than CNAs in most healthcare environments.

What are some common challenges psychiatric assistants face when working with patients, and how can they be addressed?

Psychiatric assistants often encounter challenges such as managing unpredictable patient behaviors, de-escalating tense situations, and maintaining personal boundaries while providing compassionate care. These challenges can be addressed through thorough training in crisis intervention, strong communication skills, and regular team debriefings to share strategies and support. Building rapport with patients and collaborating closely with nurses, therapists, and other mental health professionals also helps create a safer, more supportive environment for everyone involved.
More about Psychiatric Assistant jobs
What are popular job titles related to Psychiatric Assistant jobs in Rio Rancho, NM? For Psychiatric Assistant jobs in Rio Rancho, NM, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Psychiatric Assistant jobs in Rio Rancho, NM look for? The top searched job categories for Psychiatric Assistant jobs in Rio Rancho, NM are:
What cities near Rio Rancho, NM are hiring for Psychiatric Assistant jobs? Cities near Rio Rancho, NM with the most Psychiatric Assistant job openings:
Psychiatric Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Psychiatric Assistant job openings in Rio Rancho, NM as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% As Needed, 76% Full Time, and 18% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,554 per year, or $20.9 per hour.

Assistant Professor in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry

University of New Mexico

Albuquerque, NM • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life

Re-posted 2 days ago

University Of New Mexico rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 55 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

96th of 614 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Assistant Professor in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
Posting Number
req36820
Employment Type
Faculty
Faculty Type
Clinician Educator
Hiring Department
Psychiatry Psych (451A)
Academic Location
School of Medicine
Benefits Eligible
The University of New Mexico provides a comprehensive package of benefits including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance. In addition, UNM offers educational benefits through the tuition remission and dependent education programs. See the Benefits home page for more information.
Position Summary
The UNM Department of Psychiatryand Behavioral Sciences is eager to put together the right package for anindividual with a passion for child and adolescent psychiatry and teaching,coupled with an interest in joining a team of talented, caring and committedfaculty members.
Applications are beingaccepted for an academic faculty psychiatrist, suitable for appointment at therank of Assistant Professor-Clinician Educator for a position in our Child and AdolescentPsychiatry Division. The successfulcandidate can take full advantage of opportunities available in our vibrant andactive academic community.
As an attending psychiatrist in ourChild and Adolescent Psychiatry Division, the person(s) selected will have avoice in developing the division's direction as well as opportunities formulticultural clinical care and scholarly and collaborative research activitiesacross the Health Sciences Center campus. There are many opportunities for professionaldevelopment in leadership, administration, and education, including mentoringand supervision of medical students, residents, fellows, and trainees in relateddisciplines.
Salary and academic rank arecommensurate with experience and academic background.
Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications:
  • Medical Doctor (or equivalent)degree;
  • Board certified or board eligible inChild and Adolescent Psychiatry;
  • Clinical experience - minimum 1 year;
  • Eligible for licensure in the Stateof New Mexico;
  • Must be eligible to work in theUnited States.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Educational, teaching and supervisionexperience with residents, fellows and medical students.
  • A demonstrated commitment tocultivate an understanding of the rich and varied cultures of New Mexico and tothe success of the university's mission to serve local and global communities.

Application Instructions
Only applications submitted through the official UNMJobs site will be accepted. If you are viewing this job advertisement on a 3rd party site, please visit UNMJobs to submit an application.
A complete application will include a cover letter addressing each of the minimum and preferred qualifications and describing the applicant's accomplishments and future goals; a current CV; and the names, addresses and contact information for three professional references. For Additional Information Contact: Chandra Cullen, MD Vice Chair for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry CCullen@salud.unm.edu
For Best Consideration
For best consideration, please apply by 6/17/2026. This position will remain open until filled.
The University of New Mexico is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class.
HEJ Inclusive Workplace Upgrade

What University Of New Mexico employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply