LPN / LVN - Psychiatric
Jobot
Santa Cruz, CA
5x8 hrs, Days, Evenings, Nights

We are a youth non-profit social services organization seeking a Licensed Vocational Nurse / Psychiatric Technician to provide clinical oversight and compassionate care to the youth in our brand new crisis stabilization unit in Santa Cruz, CA.

SHIFT AVAILABILITY:

• 7-3:30
• 3-11:30
• 11-7:30

Key Responsibilities:

Client Care & Supervision:
- Provide direct care and supervision to youth at the Crisis Stabilization Unit.
- Administer medications and monitor for side effects or changes in client condition.
- Coordinate clients’ medical, physical, and dental needs, including referrals and linkages to community providers.
- Deliver health screening, education, and counseling focused on prevention, wellness, and mental health.
- Provide daily living assistance and supportive behavioral interventions to clients.

Medical & Clinical Support:
- Consult with physicians and pharmacists regarding client medication needs.
- Manage prescription call-ins and medication documentation.
- Oversee and implement communicable disease and infection control policies.
- Provide training to staff on health and safety protocols.
- Participate in treatment planning meetings and multidisciplinary care coordination.

Documentation & Communication:
- Accurately document interventions, medical issues, progress, and behavioral observations. 
- Communicate effectively with treatment team members, supervisors, and client families.
- Attend required staff meetings, trainings, and clinical consultations.

Qualifications:
- Graduate of an accredited School of Nursing or Medical Assistant program.
- Current Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) 

- Psychiatric Technician certification is highly preferred
- Minimum of one year of professional nursing or medical assistant experience.
- CPR/BLR and First Aid certification
- Minimum of two years’ experience working with children, adolescents, and families with emotional or behavioral challenges.
- Mental health background and experience working with youth or adolescents preferred.
- Experience in an inpatient, residential, or clinical setting strongly desired.
- Must be at least 21 years of age.
- Strong knowledge of crisis assessment, trauma-informed care, and safety planning.
- Meets all state-required employment conditions, including:
- DOJ fingerprint and Child Abuse Index clearance
- TB/Health physical
- Valid CA Driver’s License, acceptable driving record, and proof of insurance
- Knowledge of federal, state, and local regulations related to CSU operations and Medicaid/EPSDT.
- Familiarity with the DSM-V and psychotropic medications.
- Understanding of substance abuse issues and mental health care.
- Strong writing and documentation skills.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Word and standard office software.
- Ability to establish and maintain professional boundaries with clients and staff.

Work Environment & Schedule:
- This position operates within a Crisis Stabilization Unit (CSU) clinical environment in Santa Cruz, CA.
- Schedule: Full-time, flexible shifts including evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.
- May require occasional travel for training or collaboration with partner agencies.