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Psychiatric Associate Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Completion of either a Bachelor's or Associate's degree in Nursing and two years of nursing ... psychiatric nursing; good knowledge of relevant social & economic factors influencing client ...

The Psychiatric Technician provides a safe and therapeutic environment for the client's learning ... Bachelor's degree in a related field (BA, BS, BSW, BSC/BSP) preferred; candidates with an Associate ...

Special License - IL License to Practice Medicine - Psychiatry & Neurology Bilingual Option: None ... The Associate Director will monitor, supervise and coordinate the clinical psychiatric and medical ...

ASSOCIATE MEDICAL DIRECTOR

Elgin, IL · On-site

$275K - $299K/yr

Special License - IL License to Practice Medicine - Psychiatry & Neurology Bilingual Option: None ... The Associate Director will monitor, supervise and coordinate the clinical psychiatric and medical ...

ASSOCIATE MEDICAL DIRECTOR

Elgin, IL · On-site

$275K - $299K/yr

Special License - IL License to Practice Medicine - Psychiatry & Neurology Bilingual Option: None ... The Associate Director will monitor, supervise and coordinate the clinical psychiatric and medical ...

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Psychiatric Associate information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$35.1K

$114.9K

$232.5K

How much do psychiatric associate jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for psychiatric associate in Chicago, IL is $114,851.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,100.00 and $135,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a psychiatric associate?

Psychiatric Associates are mental health professionals who assist in the care and treatment of patients with psychiatric disorders. They work under the supervision of psychiatrists, nurses, or other licensed clinicians in hospitals, mental health facilities, or outpatient settings. Their duties often include monitoring patient behavior, providing therapeutic support, assisting with daily activities, and helping to implement treatment plans. Psychiatric Associates play a vital role in ensuring patient safety and supporting recovery. They may also participate in crisis intervention and help facilitate group or individual therapy sessions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a psychiatric associate?

To thrive as a Psychiatric Associate, you need a background in psychology or mental health, strong observational skills, and often a relevant associate's or bachelor's degree. Familiarity with electronic health records (EHRs), crisis intervention techniques, and patient monitoring tools is typically required. Compassion, patience, and effective communication are critical soft skills for building rapport and managing challenging behaviors. These abilities ensure safe, supportive care for patients and contribute to effective interdisciplinary teamwork in mental health settings.

What are some of the common challenges psychiatric associates face when working with patients in acute care settings?

Psychiatric Associates in acute care settings often encounter fast-paced environments where patients may present with severe symptoms or crises. Managing unpredictable behaviors, maintaining safety, and building trust with patients who may be experiencing distress can be challenging. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams is essential to ensure consistent, compassionate care, but balancing documentation, patient interaction, and teamwork requires strong organizational skills. Despite these challenges, the role offers meaningful opportunities to make a difference in patients' recovery journeys.

What is the difference between Psychiatric Associate vs Psychiatric Technician?

AspectPsychiatric AssociatePsychiatric Technician
Required CredentialsAssociate degree in mental health or related fieldHigh school diploma or equivalent; some certifications
Work EnvironmentHospitals, mental health clinics, residential facilitiesInpatient units, psychiatric hospitals, residential care
Employer & Industry UsageHealthcare providers, mental health organizationsPsychiatric hospitals, mental health facilities
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for similar roles assisting in mental health careSimilar responsibilities but different certification requirements

Psychiatric Associates and Psychiatric Technicians both work in mental health settings, assisting with patient care. The main difference lies in their credentials: Psychiatric Associates typically hold an associate degree, while Psychiatric Technicians may only need a high school diploma and certification. Both roles are vital in hospitals and clinics, but the Associate role often involves more advanced responsibilities and education.

What are the most commonly searched types of Psychiatric jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Psychiatric jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Psychiatric Associate job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $114,851 per year, or $55.2 per hour.

Other

Medical, PTO

Posted 29 days ago


Dupage County Health Department rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

455th of 849 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Psychiatric Nurse

Are you a Registered Nurse who has a passion for helping those in their most vulnerable moments? Are you looking for ways to give back to the community?

Your skills, experience, and compassion are needed on our team! We are excited to offer the opportunity to work as a Psychiatric Nurse in our Behavioral Health Services department. We have current availability to work at our Southeast Public Health Center, located in Westmont, IL on a full-time basis. This is a 37.5 hour per week position scheduled to work Monday through Friday from 8:00 am-4:30 pm with one late shift per week, either 9:00 am-5:30 pm or 10:30 am-7:00 pm on Tuesday or Thursday. The hiring range for this position is $60,300 to $72,300, depending on experience.

This position comes with an outstanding, full benefits package designed to support your personal and professional well-being. As a DuPage County Health Department employee, you'll enjoy 12 paid holidays, three weeks of vacation annually, paid sick time, and tuition and certification reimbursement to help you continue growing in your career. We also offer 12 weeks of paid parental leave so you can be there for life's most important moments. The position is pension-eligible through the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF), giving you peace of mind with a guaranteed retirement plan. Plus, you may qualify for the Federal Student Loan Forgiveness Program, making your financial future even brighter.

Responsibilities
  • Performs nursing and case management activities for clients with behavioral health and substance use disorders including:
    • Assists clients in getting medication refills
    • Collaborates with psychiatric prescribers to provide client care
    • Consults with interdisciplinary team and clients and their families regarding medical and medication issues
    • Reviews lab results, including for clients on clozapine therapy
  • Participates in emergency response activities as assigned
  • Administers long-acting psychotropic medications and medications for medication-assisted treatment
  • Monitors client vital signs
  • Performs medication reconciliations
Requirements

Completion of either a Bachelor's or Associate's degree in Nursing and two years of nursing experience; or an equivalent combination of training and experience. Must have a current Registered Nurse license from the State of Illinois.

The preferred candidate would demonstrate good knowledge of practices & principles of nursing & psychiatric nursing; good knowledge of relevant social & economic factors influencing client behavior; good knowledge of local health resources; good knowledge of medical records preparation & maintenance techniques; working skill in instructing others in treatments & practices; working skill in making group presentations in health education; working skill in maintaining medical documentation; working skill in delegating & assigning work to others; working skill in analyzing client needs; working skill in verbal & written communication; working skill in developing & maintaining positive & professional relationships with internal & external customers; working skill in operating a personal computer, applicable software & peripheral equipment

Supplemental Information

Equal Opportunity Employer DuPage County Health Department is an equal-opportunity employer. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.


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