DEPARTMENT OF ECONOMIC SECURITY

Your Partner For A Stronger Arizona.

DES works with families, community organizations, advocates and state and federal partners to realize our collective vision: A thriving Arizona.

DES serves more than 3 million Arizonans. Our Mission is to strengthen individuals, families, and communities for a better quality of life.

MENTAL HEALTH PROGRAM SPECIALIST 3

Job Location:

Address: Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD)
3002 West Palmaire Avenue, Phoenix, Arizona 85051

Posting Details:

Salary: $50,000.00 to $52,000.00 

Grade: 17

Closing Date: November 26, 2025

Job Summary:

Would you like to be part of an amazing team that helps Arizonans thrive? At the Department of Economic Security (DES), we strengthen individuals, families, and communities for a better quality of life. DES is looking for individuals that are committed to service, community, and teamwork. To learn more about DES please visit des.az.gov; or click on the link here to view ‘Our DES’ video. Come join the DES Team!

The Department of Economic Security, Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD), is seeking an experienced and highly motivated individual to join our team as an Mental Health Program Specialist 3. DDD provides individuals with developmental disabilities, and their families, services and supports that are flexible, high quality, and member driven. These services provide individuals with opportunities to exercise their rights and responsibilities of independent decision-making and engagement in the community.

Applicants for this position cannot be licensed or certified by the DDD Office of Licensing Certification and Regulation, cannot have a principal interest in or have a spouse or close family with principal interest in a DDD Qualified Vendor Agreement, and cannot be employed or subcontracted by a DDD Qualified Vendor.

Job Duties:

Essential Duties and Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
• Flexibility in schedule (i.e., work different shifts, overtime, and change work locations) as these are 24-hour residential settings. Most schedules work nights, weekends, and holidays. Requires lifting/carrying at least 50 lbs. and pushing/pulling at least 50 lbs.
• Teaches transitional living skills (personal hygiene, home maintenance, utilization of public transportation, etc) and implements the Planning Document objectives and programs. Motivates member groups and coordinates educational and recreational activities for members. Provides direct personal care and assistance with daily living skills as needed.
• Functions as a Lead staff and acts in the absence of a supervisor in coordinating and directing the activities of assigned staff, scheduling and prioritizing work activities, and providing technical advice and assistance. Discusses the concerns expressed by members and family members and listens and offers suggestions in accordance with program goals and objectives.
• Monitors and assesses member behaviors and reports potential problems for members residing in the facility or in the family's home. Accounts for objects in the facility and in the family's home, which may present a danger to members or others. Follows and ensures staff compliance with policies regarding safety procedures.
• Attends Planning/Treatment Plan team meetings as an active member for clients in the facility and, as needed, for members residing in a family setting or other residential setting. Develops Behavioral Treatment Plans and other program strategies. Confers with and advises lower-level staff on the ongoing Treatment Plans for members.
• Assesses member needs and prepares progress reports. Collects member-related data and compiles and documents it in the required format. Notes other information pertinent to each individual. Conducts individual and/or group facilitation and/or assists in specialized therapy programs. Participates in providing therapeutic treatment. Interacts on a one-to-one basis with members in problem-solving.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities (KSAs):

Knowledge in:
• Mental health principles and techniques involved in treatment.
• Principles and techniques used in teaching people with developmental disabilities in the area of daily living skills.
• The methods/procedures and techniques used in developing Individual Treatment Plans for clients with developm