JOB The Division of Public and Behavioral Health, Northern Nevada Adult Mental Health Services / Lakes Crossing Center (LCC), a maximum-security forensic facility/psychiatric hospital for mentally disordered criminal offenders in Sparks, Nevada is recruiting for several Forensic Specialist 1 positions. Forensic Specialists perform a combination of security and client care duties in a secure mental health facility for treatment/evaluation of the mentally disordered criminal offender and/or offenders whose competency requires evaluation. Incumbents perform in a trainee capacity and acquire the knowledge, skills, and abilities required in this occupation. A Forensic Specialist is a hybrid position, serving as a Nevada POST (Peace Officer Standards and Training) Certified Category III Peace Officer, and a Mental Health Professional. This exciting position offers incumbents the opportunity to serve the community in the health care and law enforcement settings, providing clinical support while maintaining safety and security. Incumbents in this series will be required to attend POST certification training. Forensic Specialists at LCC perform mental health and security duties with an emphasis on providing therapeutic treatment for clients in order to attain competency and be evaluated to stand trial for criminal charges. The Forensic Specialists also prepare clients for competency hearings and facilitate groups regarding legal processes; participate in therapeutic treatment groups and client sponsorships; assist clients in understanding the nature and seriousness of the charges that have been filed; assist assigned clients with eating, bathing, shaving, oral hygiene, grooming, dressing, movement and ambulation, and other basic activities of daily living; perform Peace Officer duties that include but are not limited to transportation of clients and community outings, and perform other duties as assigned. The Forensic Specialist 1 is the entry-level in the Forensic Specialist series, progression to Forensic Specialist 2 and 3 may occur with the recommendation of the appointing authority when minimum qualifications are met, and the incumbent is performing satisfactorily. Part of those minimum qualifications require obtaining Mental Health Technician (MHT) Certification through online college coursework.
Examination Process: Candidates that meet the minimum education and experience requirements of the position will be invited to enter the examination process as follows:
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A POST Category III physical fitness exam which consists of a vertical jump of 15 inches; Agility Run in 20.4 seconds; 20 push-ups (not timed); a 300 meter run in 74 seconds; and a 1.5 mile run in 17 minutes and 37 seconds.
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Extensive background investigation
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Pre-employment drug screening per NAC 284.4066
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Medical exam to include tuberculosis test
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Psychological examination
EXAMPLE OF DUTIES Graduation from high school or equivalent education and two years of general work experience, one year which was in a mental health, medical, correctional, law enforcement or related setting; OR one year of college coursework which included courses in health, behavioral science or criminal justice and one year of general work experience; OR an equivalent combination of education and experience as described above.
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
General knowledge of: proper grammar and punctuation in order to accurately prepare and present reports; basic arithmetic; psychotropic medications including desired effects and side effects; behaviors associated with mental illness; assaultive behavior interventions to include self-defense and non-violent control of aggression; laws, regulations and policies related to client rights.
Ability to: work alone
and as part of a team
under the direction of a supervisor; learn the custody/security policies and procedures of the facility to which assigned; establish rapport and develop positive interpersonal relationships with clients; differentiate between a personal and therapeutic relationship; accompany clients to scheduled appointments, individual and group therapy sessions and various activities; learn and participate in the mental health and/or medical treatment of clients in the facility to which assigned; record information in client charts clearly and accurately; stand and walk for extended periods of time which may include an entire shift; communicate orally and in writing; safely drive a motor vehicle using defensive driving techniques; understand and follow oral and written instructions, policies and procedures.
Recruiter Contact Information: Jennifer Kauble -
[email protected]