Entry Level* Health Care Services Trainee - Wheat Ridge Regional Center

Department Information

Current Colorado residents only.

The Wheat Ridge Regional Center provides comprehensive services and support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The unit focuses on promoting an active learning approach and creating a safe, healthy environment. Services are provided 24/7 in compliance with state and federal regulations.

Provide necessary supports to promote personal growth, participation, contribution, and capability for people with disabilities.

The Health Care Service Trainee I (HCST I) gives hands‑on direct support to individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities, helping them achieve the highest level of independence in health, safety, and activities of daily living (eating, bathing, dressing, and personal hygiene). The role involves maintaining a therapeutic milieu, ensuring safety and security, and delivering psychiatric and behavior‑based treatment.

• Personal protective equipment: gloves, gowns, surgical masks, N95 masks, and protective eyewear.
• Infection control emphasis through robust training and cleaning schedules.
• Management support.

• Coaching and mentoring individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities.
• Assisting with personal care and domestic skill development.
• Implementing behavior programs to reduce problem behaviors and teach replacement skills.
• Responding to crises using approved verbal and physical interventions.
• Providing therapy/treatment support.
• Ensuring accurate documentation.
• Supervising and supporting individuals at home.
• Providing transportation and support in the community.
• Attending required training sessions.
• Collaborating with an interdisciplinary team.
• Working nights, weekends, and other required shifts.

Unique opportunity to receive fully paid training with no prior healthcare experience required.

• Upon orientation, employees begin training to administer medication.
• After completing coursework and a competency check with a nurse, promotion to HCST II with a $1 hourly increase.
• After 6 months as Qualified Medication Administration Personnel (QMAP), promotion to Health Care Technician I with an additional $1 hourly increase.
• Further career opportunities include Mentor/Health Care Technician II, Line Charge/Health Care Technician III, and Residential Coordinator/Health Care Technician IV.
• One‑year eligibility for partial tuition reimbursement.

• Experience:
  
  None.
• Education:
  
  None.
• Must provide two supervisor/mentor references after interview.

• High School Diploma or GED.
• Experience working with people with developmental/intellectual disabilities.
• Experience working with people with mental health diagnoses.

• Effective oral and written communication.
• Instructional skills for personal care guidance.
• Listening and teaching skills.
• Willingness to learn.

• State of Colorado residency required at time of application and throughout employment.
• High school diploma or GED within one year of employment for progression.
• Must possess a valid, non‑restricted Colorado driver’s license.
• Must meet physical requirements (lift 50 lbs, bend, squat, etc.).
• Must be at least 18 years old.
• Vaccinations and TB test required upon hire.
• 24/7 availability for shift work and travel to remote sites with state vehicle if available.
• Background checks: CBI name checkout, fingerprint, ICON Colorado court database, Medicare fraud database, reference checks, license verification, drug screen, PREA, Trails check, CAPS, etc.
• Former state employees with disciplinary issues must disclose details and may be disqualified if incomplete.

The State of Colorado is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to building inclusive, innovative work environments and provide employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, medical condition, creed, ancestry, national origin, marital status, genetic information, military status, or any other protected status in accordance with applicable law.