DSHS OHBH Mental Health Technician 3

State of Washington • King County – Tukwila, WA

6d • Onsite

About The Position

Olympic Heritage Behavioral Health (OHBH) is seeking a Mental Health Technician 3 to provide nursing care and support to patients experiencing acute psychiatric and physical health challenges. Working under the direction of a Registered Nurse (RN), this role supports patient safety, recovery, and well-being while helping maintain a safe therapeutic environment for patients with complex needs and high-risk behaviors.

OHBH is a 74-bed state-operated facility in Tukwila, Washington, serving civilly committed patients. Its multidisciplinary team provides evidence-based treatment focused on stabilization, recovery, and preparing patients for a successful transition back into the community. The position is performed on-site; opportunities performed at this location at least three days a week may be eligible for an additional 5% premium pay. King County employees receive 5% premium pay and may receive a free ORCA transportation card.

Applicants should include an updated resume and three professional references with contact information. A background check, including criminal record history, may be conducted. Employees driving on state business must have a valid driver’s license; employees using a privately owned vehicle for state business must maintain liability insurance. The employer is an equal opportunity employer and emphasizes fairness, access, and social justice in its work.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Three years of experience in a psychiatric or mental health setting.
• Ability to de-escalate crisis situations and respond therapeutically to patients exhibiting angry, aggressive, or high-risk behaviors.
• Ability to provide respectful, non-threatening care that protects patient rights, promotes independence, and supports recovery.
• Knowledge of mental illness, recovery principles, group behavior, and group facilitation techniques.
• Ability to communicate effectively with patients, coworkers, supervisors, and the public, including sharing relevant patient observations with clinical staff.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary team and resolve conflicts calmly and professionally.
• Knowledge of infection control practices, universal precautions, and applicable hospital policies, procedures, and regulatory standards.
• Skill in safely and proficiently operating computers, copy machines, metal detectors, and patient lifting equipment.

Responsibilities

• Provide direct nursing care and maintain a safe therapeutic environment by monitoring patient behavior, responding to behavioral concerns, and de-escalating situations as needed.
• Observe and document patient conditions and activities, including vital signs, eating habits, behaviors, and responses to therapeutic interventions.
• Communicate changes in patient condition and relevant clinical observations to Registered Nurse staff, and provide care according to established treatment plans.
• Orient, mentor, and train newly assigned staff on ward or living unit administrative tasks and procedures.
• Follow hospital policies, procedures, and applicable state and federal regulations and standards.
• Escort and transport patients as needed.
• Monitor ward or living unit supplies and equipment, maintain inventories, and rotate stock to prevent expiration.
• Assist patients with personal property, valuables, and funds.
• Conduct environmental rounds and coordinate maintenance requests and contractor access to help ensure a safe environment.

Benefits

• King County employees receive 5% premium pay in addition to the advertised salary.
• King County employees are eligible to receive a free ORCA card for transportation use.
• Opportunities performed on-site at this work location at least three days a week may be eligible for an additional 5% premium pay.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: High school or GED