Mental Health Specialist

BEHAVIORAL HEALTH SERVICES – MENTAL HEALTH SPECIALIST

Salary may be negotiable within the range listed above, based on position requirements and successful candidate's qualifications, subject to appropriate authorization.

This recruitment is open to the public for a minimum of five (5) business days and will remain open on a continuous basis until 11:59 p.m. (PST) on the day the County’s needs are met. Applicants are encouraged to apply immediately as this recruitment may close at any time without further notice.

The County of Orange Health Care Agency provides culturally competent behavioral health services. The Behavioral Health Services (BHS) function serves all eligible county residents with substance use disorder and mental health care.

Positions may require shift work (day, night, swing, and weekend). Some assignments may require active AOD certification at time of application and throughout employment.

• Serve participants experiencing homelessness or at risk, delivering outreach, education, crisis management, case management, skill‑building workshops, referral and linkage to resources, and transportation support.
• Track and document participant engagement and data to demonstrate outcomes.

• Evaluating adults with psychiatric symptoms lasting less than 23.5 hours.
• Providing crisis stabilization and telephone consultations.
• Assessing adults, recommending and administering treatment and medication.
• Referring clients to appropriate facilities for care and treatment.
• Providing counseling services as needed.

• Bachelor’s degree in psychology, counseling, social work or related behavioral science field.
• At least three (3) years of field experience providing participant‑related services for mental health and/or substance use disorders.
• For Outreach and Engagement positions: at least two (2) years of experience working with homeless or at‑risk populations.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.

• Strong desire to work with homeless populations; bilingual skills in Spanish, Vietnamese, Korean, or Farsi are desirable.
• Competencies include: field service provision, service coordination, data collection, assessment and individualized service planning, group facilitation, and proficiency with office software.
• Excellent communication skills, confidentiality, adaptability, and interpersonal skills for building trust and managing stress.

• Must read, drive, and use computer applications; stand, walk, and maintain mobility for long periods.
• Will interact with participants in emotional or hostile situations, work in office, secure facilities, and field sites, and sometimes evenings/weekends.

Human Resource Services will screen applications for minimum qualifications. Qualified candidates will complete an online assessment. HRS will establish an eligible list and may invite selected candidates for interview.

The County provides preferential consideration to veterans and eligible spouses.

Orange County, as an equal employment opportunity employer, encourages applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply.