Are you passionate about supporting individuals in their mental health journeys? Portland, Oregon offers a thriving market for QMHA (Qualified Mental Health Associate) professionals, connecting you to meaningful opportunities and competitive pay. This in-depth, SEO-friendly guide covers everything you need to know about QMHA jobs in Portland—from roles and C2C requirements in USA to salaries, career growth, and frequently asked questions. Get ready to make your mark in the world of mental health support.
Key Takeaways
- Wide Array of Roles: QMHA jobs Portland Oregon range from Behavioral Health Associate and Case Manager to Housing Coordinator and Mental Health Technician.
- Impressive Earnings: Average annual salary is around $141,113, with potential to reach up to $306,485 for top earners.
- Flexible Work Environments: Opportunities exist within community health centers, non-profits, residential facilities, and remote crisis response teams.
- Growth & Impact: Portland’s active job market allows for professional development, skill specialization, and advancement.
- Accessible Requirements: Generally, require a bachelor’s degree in social services/related fields and QMHA certification through Oregon’s established pathways.
What is a QMHA and Why Are These Jobs in Demand?
Qualified Mental Health Associates (QMHAs) are certified professionals dedicated to delivering support and skill-building services under licensed clinicians. They are crucial to the behavioral health ecosystem, helping clients achieve treatment goals, develop social connections, and access community resources.
With Oregon’s sustained commitment to behavioral health, QMHA jobs Portland Oregon are ample in number and QMHAs have become indispensable in community programs for youth, adults facing addiction, homelessness, or trauma, and culturally specific populations. Portland, in particular, boasts dozens of active opportunities due to its dynamic social service and healthcare sectors.
Main QMHA Job Titles & Work Settings in Portland
Explore a variety of roles tailored for qualified associates:
- Behavioral Health Associate
- Outpatient and Crisis Case Managers
- Supportive Housing Services Coordinator
- Med Tech (Residential Mental Health)
- Intensive Mental Health Housing Coordinator
- Skills Trainer
- Mental Health Technician
You can find these positions at organizations like Asian Health & Service Center, A Village for One, Telecare Corporation, Cascadia Health, and Native American Rehabilitation Association, among others.
QMHA jobs Portland Oregon Responsibilities
Typical duties include:
- Assisting clinicians with treatment plan execution
- Facilitating skills training, case management, and educational groups
- Supporting clients in accessing community resources, housing, and wellness services
- Documenting client progress and maintaining confidential records
- Conducting mental health assessments
- Collaborating with a multidisciplinary team to promote recovery
Roles may be tailored to specific populations, such as working with Black women overcoming addiction, youth at risk, or culturally diverse communities.
What Are the Qualifications to Become a QMHA jobs Portland Oregon?
The state of Oregon maintains clear standards:
- Education: Bachelor’s degree in a social services, psychology, or related field
- Experience: At least 1 year of qualifying experience or supervised hours (often 1,000 hours), especially for degree pathway candidates
- Certification: QMHA certification or active registration with the Oregon Mental Health & Addiction Certification Board (MHACBO)
- Skills: Ability to support individuals under stress, manage case records, collaborate with teams, and use computer systems for documentation
- Other: May require background checks, drug screening, and eligibility for federal health programs
QMHA Salary & Benefits in Portland, Oregon (2025)
Compensation is highly competitive:
| Position Level | Annual Salary | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Top Earners | $306,485 | $147 |
| 75th Percentile | $214,200 | $103 |
| Average | $141,113 | $68 |
| 25th Percentile | $48,800 | $23 |
Benefits often include paid holidays, health/dental/vision insurance, 403(b) retirement plans, paid vacation, and sick leave.
How to Get Certified as a QMHA in Oregon
Follow these main steps:
- Obtain a qualifying bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience.
- Register for QMHA certification through MHACBO.
- Complete required supervised hours (typically 1,000 hours for degree pathway).
- Pass any necessary assessments and background checks.
- Apply for jobs via trusted platforms like Indeed, ZipRecruiter, MHACBO, or specific provider sites.
Where to Find QMHA jobs Portland Oregon?
Search and apply for QMHA roles using leading platforms:
- Indeed.com
- ZipRecruiter
- MHACBO.org
- USA staffing
- LinkedIn Jobs
- Direct employer websites
Openings range from full-time and part-time to remote and temporary positions.
Career Paths & Growth Opportunities
Advancement options for QMHAs include:
- Senior Case Manager
- Team Supervisor
- QMHP (Qualified Mental Health Professional)
- Clinical Specialist
- Housing Service Expert
Professional development and credentialing offer access to higher pay and specialized roles across community, residential, and outpatient mental health programs.
Application Tips to Stand Out
- Customize your resume to highlight relevant education, experience, and QMHA registration.
- Showcase skills in crisis intervention, documentation, cultural competency, and teamwork.
- Mention extra language proficiency or specialized experience (ex: working with SPMI—severe and persistent mental illness).
- Prepare for behavioral and scenario-based interviews focusing on empathy and problem-solving.
FAQs
What is the average QMHA salary in Portland, Oregon?
The average salary for a QMHA in Portland is $141,113 per year, with experienced professionals earning up to $306,485 annually.
What qualifications do I need to become a QMHA?
You typically need a bachelor’s degree in a related field, 1,000 supervised hours of experience, and Oregon QMHA certification.
What types of employers hire QMHAs in Portland?
Employers include community health centers, non-profits, outpatient clinics, residential facilities, and crisis intervention teams.
What career advancement opportunities exist for QMHAs?
You can move up to senior case manager, team supervisor, or pursue further credentials like Qualified Mental Health Professional (QMHP).
Where can I find QMHA job listings?
Check leading platforms such as Indeed, ZipRecruiter, MHACBO, LinkedIn, and direct employer websites for current openings.
Ready to launch your career as a QMHA in Portland, Oregon? Start your journey today and make a lasting difference in your community
