Mental Health Specialist Trainee
Job Location:
Park Forest, IL - USA
Yearly Salary:
Posted:
Application Deadline:
Vacancies:
Job Summary
Job Requisition ID:54346
Opening Date: 05/12/2026
Closing Date: 05/26/2026
Agency:Department of Human Services
Class Title:MENTAL HEALTH SPECIALIST TRAINEE - 26928
Skill Option:None
Bilingual Option:None
Salary: Anticipated Salary (Effective 7/1/2026): $4568 - $6133 per month ($54816 - $73569 per year)
Job Type: Salaried
Category:Full Time
County: Cook
Number of Vacancies: 1
Bargaining Unit Code:RC062 Technical Employees AFSCME
Merit Comp Code:
This position is a union position; therefore provisions of the relevant collective bargaining agreement/labor contract apply to the filling of this position.
While not requireda Resume/Curriculum Vitae (CV) is recommended. When applicable titles that require specific coursework professional license or certification will include a notation requesting the appropriate document(s) be uploaded in theAdditional Documentssection of yourapplication. Failure to upload requested transcripts license and/or proof of certification when specified may result in ineligibility. Please note that the Department of Human Services must verify proof of higher education for any degree earned (if applicable) regardless of vacancy title before any offer can be extended.
All applicants who want to be considered for this position MUST apply electronically through the website. State of Illinois employees should click the link near the top left to apply through the SuccessFactors employee career portal.
Applications submitted via email or any paper manner (mail fax hand delivery) will not be considered.
Why Work for Illinois
Working with the State of Illinois is a testament to the values of compassion equity and dedication that define our state. Whether youre helping to improve schools protect our natural resources or support families in need youre part of something biggersomething that touches the lives of every person who calls Illinois home.
No matter what state career youre looking for we offer jobs that fit your life and your scheduleflexible jobs that provide the gold standard of benefits. Our employees can take advantage of various avenues to advance their careers and realize their dreams. Our top-tier benefits and great retirement packages can help you build a rewarding career and lasting future with the State of Illinois.
Under immediate supervision for a period of no less than six months and not to exceed twelve months participates in a structured training program to develop skills in data collection and analysis of behavioral data within developmental disabilities and behavioral health services. Assists in reviewing and monitoring individualized behavior plans while maintaining accurate evaluative data to inform care.
- For a period of no less than six months and not to exceed twelve months receives instructions and training in the ability to review assess and monitor behavioral programs.
- Observes individuals response to treatment and reports to the Clinical and Behavioral Director on findings.
- Observes meetings with clinical/behavioral department staff and individuals family members/guardians regarding the responses to individuals treatments.
- Completes informal classroom training and on-the-job training regarding behavioral programs and the assessments of individuals and their behavioral needs.
- Performs other duties as required or assigned which are reasonably within the scope of the duties enumerated above.
- Requires knowledge skill and mental development equivalent to completion of four (4) years of college.
- Two (2) years of professional experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities.
- Two (2) years of professional experience performing professional psychological/behavioral activities.
- Two (2) years of professional experience working with residential treatment programs services policies and procedures.
- Two (2) years of professional experience reviewing medical records and previous psychological evaluations to assist in conducting assessments to target behaviors of individuals/patients.
- Two (2) years of professional experience documenting with strong attention to detail.
- Two (2) years of professional experience utilizing critical thinking skills while multi-tasking.
- Requires ability to pass the IDHS background check.
- Requires ability to pass a drug screen for drugs prohibited from recreational use under Illinois Law.
- The conditions of employment listed here are incorporated and related to any of the job duties as listed in the job description.
Work Hours:Monday - Friday 8:30am - 5:00pm 1-hour unpaid lunch
Unit 1/Clinical Services
Headquarter Location:114 N Orchard Dr Park Forest Illinois 60466
Division of Developmental Disabilities
Ludeman Developmental Center
Clinical and Behavioral Services
Work County:Cook
Posting Group:Health Services; Social Services
About the Agency:
The Illinois Department of Human Services serves families in need across Illinois. Our mission is providing equitable access to social services supports programs and resources to enhance the lives of all who we serve. We are committed to the core values of Human Dignity Equity Community Urgency Transparency and Kindness.
As a State of Illinois employee you will receive a robust benefit package that includes the following:
- A Pension Program
- Competitive Group Insurance Benefits including Health Life Dental and Vision Insurance
- 3 Paid Personal Business Days annually
- 12 Paid Sick days annually (Sick days carry over from year to year)
- 10-25 days of Paid Vacation time annually - (10 days in year one of employment)
- Benefit time modified for part-time 12-hour & non-standard work schedules (as applicable)
- 13 Paid Holidays annually 14 on even numbered years
- Flexible Work Schedules (when available dependent upon position)
- 12 Weeks Paid Parental Leave
- Deferred Compensation Program - A supplemental retirement plan
- Optional Pre-Tax Programs such as Medical Care Assistance Plan (MCAP) Dependent Care Assistance Plan (DCAP)
- Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program eligibility
- GI BillTraining/Apprenticeship Benefits eligibility for qualifying Veterans
- 5% Salary Differential for Bilingual Positions
- Commuter Savings Program (Chicago only)
For more information about our benefits please follow this link: INSTRUCTIONS
Use the Apply button at the top right or bottom right of this posting to begin the application process.
If you are not already signed in you will be prompted to do so.
State employees should sign in to the career portal for State of Illinois employees a link is available at the top left of thehomepage in the blue ribbon.
Non-State employees should log in on the using the View Profile link in the top right of thehomepage in the blue ribbon. If you have never before signed in you will be prompted to create an account.
If you have questions about how to apply please see the following resources:
State employees: Log in to thecareer portalfor State employees and review theInternal Candidate Application Job Aid
Non-State employees: on click Application Procedures in the footer of every page of the website.
State employees should include temporary assignment in the application profile. Temporary assignment verification forms can be uploaded to the Additional Documents section.
The main form of communication will be through email. Please check your junk mail spam or other folder for communication(s) regarding any submitted application(s). You may receive emails from the following addresses:
Required Experience:
Intern
