Licensed Psychiatric Technician

Job description:

Under the supervision of a registered nurse and mental-health clinicians, the Licensed Psychiatric Technician (LPT) provides direct, hands-on care to persons with psychiatric, emotional, and behavioral disorders. The LPT performs assessment-related tasks within the California LPT scope of practice, implements treatment plans, administers medications per policy, monitors and documents patient behavior and clinical status, and participates as a member of the multidisciplinary treatment team.

Key responsibilities / duties:

(Adapt/select per facility - this list blends state scope + common San Diego employer practice.)

• Provide direct patient care and assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs): bathing, dressing, feeding, toileting, mobility.
• Observe, monitor and document patient mental/behavioral status, report clinically significant changes to RN/MD/clinician.
• Administer medications and maintain accurate medication records consistent with facility policy and LPT scope.
• Carry out basic assessments (vital signs, behavioral observations, standardized instruments as trained) and implement behavior/treatment plans.
• Provide crisis intervention, de-escalation and, when trained, participate in safe-hold/seclusion procedures per policy; ensure patient and staff safety.
• Facilitate therapeutic and recreational group activities and skills training to support rehabilitation and community reintegration.
• Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings, document progress notes, and contribute to discharge and aftercare planning.
• Maintain infection control, safe environment, and follow mandated reporting and confidentiality (HIPAA) guidelines.

Minimum qualifications

• Current and active California Licensed Psychiatric Technician (LPT) credential issued by the Board of Vocational Nursing & Psychiatric Technicians (BVNPT). (Must provide license number).
• Completion of an approved psychiatric technician training program OR equivalent education/experience required by BVNPT.
• Experience: Minimum 3+ years of Licensed Psychiatric Technician is required.
• High school diploma or GED.
• Current CPR / First Aid certification (BLS preferred).
• Ability to pass background checks and pre-employment health screenings (TB, immunizations) and drug screening where required.
• Excellent communication, observational, and de-escalation skills; ability to work night/rotating shifts and respond to emergencies.

Preferred / desirable

• Prior experience working in acute psychiatric inpatient settings, emergency psychiatry, forensic psychiatry, child/adolescent programs, or community behavioral health.
• Training in trauma-informed care, suicide risk assessment, Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) familiarity, CPI/Non-Violent Crisis Intervention.
• Spanish or other language proficiency (useful in San Diego region).

Working conditions & physical demands

• Work in close contact with patients who may be unpredictable, agitated, or violent at times; personal protective and safety procedures required.
• Shift work including nights, weekends, and holidays; overtime may be needed during staffing shortages.
• Frequent standing, walking, assisting patients with transfers; occasional lifting of patients (facility training/procedures required).

Job Types: Full-time, Contract

Pay: $50.00 - $56.00 per hour

Schedule:

• 8 hours shift
• Day shift
• Thursday to Monday

Work Location: In person

Join our team and make a significant impact on the lives of our patients through your expertise.

Job Types: Full-time, Contract

Pay: $50.00 - $56.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40 per week

Work Location: In person