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Psychiatric Nursing Assistant Jobs in Riverside, CA

Nursing Assistant Program Director

Irvine, CA · On-site

$81K - $107K/yr

Nursing Assistant Program Director We are looking for an Assistant Program Director to join our ... psychiatric nursing, obstetrics or pediatrics within the past five (5) years. * Must hold a valid ...

Nursing Assistant Program Director

Irvine, CA · On-site

$81K - $107K/yr

Nursing Assistant Program Director We are looking for an Assistant Program Director to join our ... psychiatric nursing, obstetrics or pediatrics within the past five (5) years. * Must hold a valid ...

Nursing Assistant

Hemet, CA · On-site

$36K/yr

Must have at least 6 months of general nursing assistant experience performing simple personal ... psychiatric, or operating room technician. OR Combination of education and experience that when ...

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Psychiatric Nursing Assistant information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$12

$23

$35

How much do psychiatric nursing assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for psychiatric nursing assistant in Riverside, CA is $23.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.08 and $27.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a psychiatric nursing assistant?

Psychiatric nursing assistants are healthcare professionals who provide basic care and support to patients with mental health disorders in hospitals, psychiatric facilities, or other healthcare settings. They assist patients with daily activities, monitor their behavior, help maintain a safe environment, and report changes in patients’ conditions to nurses or other medical staff. Their work is vital in supporting both patients and the broader mental health care team. Psychiatric nursing assistants may also participate in therapeutic activities and help with crisis intervention under supervision.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a psychiatric nursing assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Psychiatric Nursing Assistant, you need a foundational understanding of mental health care, basic nursing skills, and often a high school diploma or CNA certification. Experience with electronic health records (EHRs), patient monitoring systems, and safety protocols for behavioral health settings is typically required. Strong communication, patience, emotional resilience, and de-escalation abilities help you connect with patients and support clinical teams. These skills are crucial for ensuring patient safety, delivering compassionate care, and maintaining a therapeutic environment in mental health facilities.

What are some common challenges faced by psychiatric nursing assistants, and how are they typically addressed in the workplace?

Psychiatric Nursing Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing patients exhibiting aggressive or unpredictable behaviors and coping with emotionally demanding situations. To address these, most facilities provide thorough training in de-escalation techniques, crisis intervention, and safety protocols. Regular team debriefings, access to mental health support, and a strong emphasis on teamwork help create a supportive work environment. Open communication with nurses, therapists, and supervisors is encouraged to ensure staff well-being and patient safety.

What is the difference between Psychiatric Nursing Assistant vs Certified Nursing Assistant?

AspectPsychiatric Nursing AssistantCertified Nursing Assistant
CredentialsTypically requires a state-approved training program and certificationRequires completion of a state-approved CNA training program and certification
Work EnvironmentSpecializes in mental health facilities, psychiatric units, and behavioral health settingsWorks in hospitals, nursing homes, and long-term care facilities
Job DutiesAssists with mental health patient care, monitors behavior, and provides emotional supportProvides basic patient care, assists with daily activities, and monitors vital signs

While both roles involve patient care and require certification, Psychiatric Nursing Assistants focus on mental health settings and behavioral support, whereas Certified Nursing Assistants work across a broader range of healthcare environments providing general patient care.

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Psychiatric Nursing Assistant jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Psychiatric Nursing Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Psychiatric Nursing Assistant job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,308 per year, or $23.2 per hour.

Nursing Assistant Program Director

Irvine, CA • On-site

New Solutions
51 - 200 employees

$81K - $107K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

Nursing Assistant Program Director
We are looking for an Assistant Program Director to join our team.
This position will work with and functions under the supervision of the Campus Program Director of the Vocational Nursing Program.
  • Assists the Director with planning, developing, managing, updating and evaluating all aspects of the program
  • Assists with preparing data and other written materials for all required state and Board requirements, reports, proposals, self-studies, surveys, and site visits
  • Assists with identifying and obtaining outside resources for the nursing program
  • Assesses the ability of the agency to provide clinical experience that meet the objectives for application of theory and clinical course objectives
  • Ensures Facility Approval Applications are completed and approved prior to initiating clinical rotations
  • Ensures that student theory and clinical evaluations are completed in a timely manner by assigned faculty
  • Maintains evaluations by students, clinical sites representatives, and faculty at completion of each clinical rotation
  • Assist with strategic planning and assessment of instructional initiatives to ensure quality of program
  • Makes continuous efforts to improve quality of instruction
  • Ensures that clinical assignments, clinical rotation matrixes and calendars are completed in a timely manner
  • Ensures that faculty is consistently following policies and guidelines as related to student clinical rotation experience.
  • Reviews student learning material on an ongoing basis
  • Ensures that student records are maintained according to policies.

Requirements
  • A masters or higher degree from an accredited college or university (including course work in nursing, education, or administration).
  • A minimum of three (3) years experience leading a nursing program.
  • A minimum of three (3) years experience as a full-time faculty in pre- or post-licensure nursing program.
  • A minimum of one (1) year experience teaching in an online teaching and learning environment.
  • A minimum four (4) year of continuous full-time experience as a registered nurse providing direct patient care in geriatrics, medical-surgical, mental health psychiatric nursing, obstetrics or pediatrics within the past five (5) years.
  • Must hold a valid, active license issued by the California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN).

Benefits
  • Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
  • Retirement Plan (401k, IRA)
  • Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
  • Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
  • Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity)
  • Short Term & Long Term Disability
  • Training & Development