Licensed Nurse and Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing Certification within 6 months of hire

The essential functions for this position include the ability to lift, carry, push, and pull 50-100 pounds on a daily basis and 25-50 pounds frequently; as well as stand, walk and sit for long periods of time. The conditions of work may involve exposure to communicable diseases, hazards of radiation, and injury from intractable patients or sharp instruments.

Must be able to work three 12-hour shift per week, 7:00pm – 7:00am; may include some weekends per departmental needs.

The University of Kentucky Healthcare (UKHC) Enterprise is seeking a Behavioral Health Specialist. The Behavioral Health Specialist will support the care of adult and pediatric patients on medical surgical units who have psychiatric, behavioral, and/ or substance use issues. This nurse will act as an expert resource and work collaboratively with the psychiatric and addiction consult services. This nurse will support patient care through direct nursing consultation, coaching/mentoring, learning needs assessment, formal and informal education, and providing guidance to the nurses and team. This nurse will lead Behavioral Health Emergency Response Team (BERT) responses to psychiatric emergencies within the Kentucky Children’s Hospital, Good Samaritan, and Chandler Medical Center.

The University of Kentucky considers the health, safety and well-being of our entire community to be a top priority. In alignment with this priority, all new hires must provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination or obtain an approved medical or religious exemption as a condition of employment. For areas that fall under the federal CMS mandate, start of employment cannot occur until two weeks after receiving the full COVID-19 vaccination series or upon obtaining an approved exemption. Only vaccines approved by the World Health Organization can be accepted.

The ideal candidate will be an experienced RN, hold a BSN, and will have strong interpersonal skills. Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing Certification within one year of hire.

BSN required, MSN preferred along with nursing experience in behavioral health setting(s).

The University of Kentucky is committed to a diverse and inclusive workforce by ensuring all our students, faculty, and staff work in an environment of openness and acceptance. We strive to foster a community where people of all backgrounds, identities, and perspectives can feel secure and welcome. We also value the well-being of each of our employees and are dedicated to creating a healthy place to work, learn and live. In the interest of maintaining a safe and healthy environment for our students, employees, patients and visitors the University of Kentucky is a Tobacco & Drug Free campus.

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we strongly encourage veterans, individuals with disabilities, women, and all minorities to consider our employment opportunities.

Any candidate offered a position may be required to pass pre-employment screenings as mandated by University of Kentucky Human Resources. These screenings may include a national background check and/or drug screen.