Behavioral Health Specialist - QMHP; Assistance

Initial Posting Date: 09/03/2025

Final date to receive applications: 09/03/2025

Agency: Oregon Youth Authority

Salary Range: $6,420.00 - $8,967.00

Position Type: Employee

Position Title: Behavioral Health Specialist 2 - QMHP (Relocation Assistance)

Employers:
Oregon Youth Authority (OYA). We are looking for full‑time Qualified Mental Health Professionals (QMHPs) to provide comprehensive mental and behavioral health services to youth at the Mac Laren Youth Correctional Facility. The role includes collaboration with psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) and psychologists to create a supportive treatment environment within the assigned living unit.

Your mission is to cultivate a positive and dynamic atmosphere that encourages youth to take responsibility, develop healthy habits, lead productive lives and engage in socially acceptable behavior. Working alongside the Living Unit Manager (LUM) and Case Coordinator (CC) you will offer strong leadership and implement evidence‑based interventions within a group living setting.

We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds.

Additional Information

• Multiple Positions
  :
  This recruitment will fill multiple positions, including limited duration, temporary, and permanent positions.
• Open Until Filled
  :
  The recruitment will remain open until filled but may close at any time when an adequate number of applications have been received.
• Representation
  :
  This position is represented by the Service Employees International Union (SEIU/OPEU).
• Comprehensive and equitable base salary offer within the listed range based on your experience, skills and education. For more information on pay equity, .
• The salary range listed is the non‑PERS participating rate. If you are already a participating PERS member or become eligible, the salary range will increase by 6%. Please review the Classification and Compensation page for more details.
• This position receives annual increases on the anniversary date until the maximum of the salary range is reached.
• Please save a copy of this job announcement for your reference, as it may not be available after the job closes.

Note: Please ensure you have provided a thorough and updated application as it pertains to the position for which you are applying. Your application materials will be used to determine salary based on a pay equity assessment. For further information, please visit the Pay Equity Project homepage.

At OYA, diversity, equity, and inclusion are central to everything we do. We support cultural competence, develop teams, and cultivate leaders in ways that are equitable to everyone, especially people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, and other marginalized communities. Our DEI work aligns with a culture of positive human development, safe and supportive environments where everyone is held accountable. The end goal is to protect the public and reduce crime by holding youth accountable and providing opportunities for reformation in safe environments.

Join our Recruitment team during our OYA Career Chat Sessions every other Wednesday, 11 am‑11:30 am PST.  to register for OYA Career Chats.

OYA values its employees. We offer a great work/life balance with flexible schedules on most positions and a competitive benefits package, including low‑cost, high‑coverage health insurance, generous time‑off, and a competitive retirement plan.

• A Bachelor's degree in nursing or occupational therapy AND licensed by the State of Oregon AND three years of progressively responsible experience related to the series concept;
  OR
• A Master’s degree in psychology, social work, recreational, art or music therapy, or behavioral health science AND two years of progressively responsible experience related to the series concept.

• Driver's license required: Driving is an essential function. A valid driver license and acceptable driving record are required. Pre‑employment driving record checks will be conducted.
• Eligible for certification as Qualified Mental Health…