Pediatric Psychiatric Registered Nurse

We are one of California's largest and most successful social services organizations supporting children, youth and their families through a wide range of social services. We are committed to ensuring that every child is loved, every family is supported and every individual has the tools to succeed. Our services are delivered through six divisions: Foster Care and Adoption, Transitional Aged Youth, Residential, Home-based Services, Behavioral Health, and Family and Community.

We are seeking a compassionate and skilled Pediatric Psychiatric Registered Nurse (RN) to support youth and adolescents in our residential and outpatient behavioral health programs. These youth often experience acute emotional, behavioral, or psychiatric challenges, and may be at risk of harming themselves or others. As a key member of a multidisciplinary team, the RN provides direct care, conducts health and risk assessments, administers medications, and responds to crisis situations in a trauma-informed, youth-centered environment. This role requires strong clinical judgment, a calm demeanor under pressure, and a deep commitment to the safety and well-being of vulnerable youth.

**This position is based in Santa Cruz, CA with an expectation of on-site presence, including oversight of evening and weekend coverage schedules as needed.

Responsibilities:
*Clinical Assessment, Risk Monitoring & Crisis Response

• Conduct comprehensive nursing assessments, including evaluation for self-harm, suicidal ideation, aggression, and other behavioral health risks.
• Monitor youth for changes in physical or mental health, and intervene early to prevent escalation of risk.
• Provide immediate care during medical or psychiatric emergencies, including administering emergency medications and supporting crisis protocols.
• Maintain constant awareness of youth presenting with high-risk behaviors and collaborate to implement individualized safety plans.

*Integrated Care & Interdisciplinary Collaboration

• Work closely with therapists, psychiatrists, physicians, and program staff to coordinate individualized care plans for youth with complex needs.
• Support intake and discharge processes, ensuring accurate review of medical histories, immunizations, and risk factors.
• Participate in care team meetings to advocate for youth health needs and to communicate changes in condition or treatment response.
• Provide medical updates and clinical insights to caregivers, case managers, and external providers as appropriate.

*Medication Administration & Health Education

• Administer prescribed medications safely and document accurately, following agency and licensing guidelines.
• Educate youth on medication compliance, potential side effects, and the importance of self-care.
• Ensure secure handling, storage, and tracking of medications in accordance with regulatory standards.
• Promote youth understanding of wellness, hygiene, nutrition, reproductive health, and other age-appropriate health topics.

*Supportive Environment & Youth Empowerment

• Build positive, trust-based relationships with youth through trauma-informed engagement and consistent support.
• Encourage youth to develop self-advocacy and health awareness skills as part of their healing and recovery.
• Provide youth-centered, culturally sensitive care that honors their lived experience and mental health journey.
• Participate in ongoing professional development in areas such as trauma-informed care, youth resilience, and de-escalation strategies.

Qualifications:

• Current and valid Registered Nurse (RN) license in California
• Minimum of 2 years of nursing experience, preferably in pediatric, adolescent, behavioral health, or residential care settings.
• Experience working with youth and teens in mental health or developmental disability programs strongly preferred.
• Knowledge of psychiatric medications, adolescent development, and trauma-informed care principles.
• Ability to perform comprehensive health assessments and manage nursing interventions independently.
• Strong clinical judgment and decision-making skills in fast-paced or crisis situations.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to interact effectively with youth, families, and multidisciplinary teams.
• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification required; Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS)
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and adhere to professional and ethical standards.
• Flexibility to work varied shifts, including evenings, weekends, and on-call as needed.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation may be required for some outpatient or community-based roles.