Mental Health Technician Trainee

at Illinois Department of Human Services in Park Forest, Illinois, United States

Job Description

Agency: Illinois Department of Human Services

Job Requisition ID: 48821

Location: Park Forest, Illinois, 60466

Opening Date: 8/26/2026

Closing Date: 8/27/2027

Salary: Anticipated Salary: $4,272 - $5,641 per month ($51,264 - $67,692 per year)

County: Cook

Number of Vacancies: 60

***MUST APPLY ONLINE ***

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 required, a 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 the Additional Documents section of your application. 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. 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 you’re helping to improve schools, protect our natural resources, or support families in need, you’re part of something bigger—something that touches the lives of every person who calls Illinois home.
No matter what state career you’re looking for, we offer jobs that fit your life and your schedule—flexible 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.

Position Overview

The Division of Developmental Disabilities is seeking to hire a Mental Health Technician Trainee for the Ludeman Developmental Center located in Park Forest, Illinois for a period of time from six and not to exceed twelve months, receive instruction and training in caring for individuals with developmental disabilities. Completes classroom and on-the-job training.  Performs beginning level direct care functions in the care and habilitation of individuals with developmental disabilities, on assigned unit under supervision during trainee period. 

Essential Functions

• For a period of time from six (6) and not to exceed twelve (12) months, receives instruction and training in caring for individuals with developmental disabilities.
• Completes on the job training assignments totaling a minimum of 120 hours in formal classroom training and a minimum of 400 hours in on-the-job training.
• Supervises and escorts individuals during activities including self-help activities such as toileting, bathing, dressing, eating and laundry, education or medical/nursing events and appointments on and off campus.
• Performs basic housekeeping assignments. Including mopping, cleaning tables, removing trash, lifting up to 50 pounds unassisted, etc., to maintain a clean, safe and home-like environment of assigned residential area including set up and serving of meals.
• Performs other duties as required or assigned which are reasonably within the scope of the duties enumerated above.

Conditions of Employment

• Requires the ability to lift up to 50 pounds unassisted. 
• Requires the ability to work after business hours, weekends, and holidays.
• Requires the ability to utilize office equipment, including personal computers.
• Requires the ability to physically restrain individuals as necessary to prevent injury to individual or others.
• Requires the ability to travel.     
• Requires ability to pass standard Physical Agility testing.
• Requires ability to pass the IDHS background check.
• Requires ability to pass a drug screen for drugs prohibited from recreational use under Illinois Law.

*All conditions of employment listed are incorporated and related to any of the job duties as listed in the job description.

Work Hours: 24/7 Variable shifts.

Work Location: 114 N Orchard Dr, Park Forest, Illinois, 60466

Division of Developmental Disabilities

Ludeman Developmental Center

Staff Development Unit

Agency Contact: DHS.HiringUnit@illinois.gov

Posting Group: Health Services; Social Services

* Please note, trainee positions are filled on a continuous basis. There may be extended wait times between application and job offer.

About the Agency:

The Illinois Department of Human Services serves families in need all 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.