Provide compassionate mental health care in an unconventional setting We are seeking caring and compassionate Mental Health Nurses to join our health care team at the Hamilton-Wentworth Detention Centre. Mental Health Nurses who work in corrections practice a wide range of nursing skills in an unconventional setting. They play an key part of the rehabilitation process by helping patients in custody achieve independence and self-care. This helps increase the chance of a patient leaving custody successfully re-entering the community.
About the job As a Mental Health Nurse with the Hamilton-Wentworth Detention Centre, you will work collaboratively as a member of the inter-professional health care team and apply your specialized knowledge. You can expect the typical day to include activities such as:
Conducting mental health assessments for the purposes of triage and on-going care
Monitoring treatment plans and response to health care interventions
Communicating with community care providers to obtain mental health histories and facilitate transitional care
Coordinating care with other members of the health care team, such as primary care, psychiatry, social work and psychology
Sharing your expertise and contributing to mental health program development
Applying your knowledge of crisis prevention and intervention
Practising in accordance with the College of Nurses of Ontario Practice Standards, Ministry expectations, and the security requirements of the institution
What you bring to the team Mandatory requirements You are currently a Registered Nurse in good standing with the College of Nurses of Ontario.
The successful candidate will be required to be registered for a mental health nurse certification program upon job offer and complete certification requirements within a specified period.
The ministry will accept the following certification or proof of enrolment:
Canadian Nurses Association – Current Psychiatric and Mental Health Certification
Centre for Addiction and Mental Health - Concurrent Disorders Certification
Accredited Colleges in Canada – Mental Health Certification
Specialized Mental Health Knowledge and Experience You have knowledge of:
mental illness, mental health nursing theory, community mental health resources,



evidence-based practices and current treatment options acquired through enrolment in or completion of a post-diploma/post-degree certificate program in mental health, and supplemented by continuing education in mental health/psychiatry
mental health evidence-based practices and current treatment options and experience completing comprehensive mental health assessments
You can interpret and apply relevant legislation such as the Mental Health Act, Regulated Health Professions Act, Health Care Consent Act, and Personal Health Information Protection Act
Clinical Assessment, Critical Reasoning and Analytical Skills collect, interpret and evaluate health information for mental health assessments and treatment and care plans
evaluate responses to planned interventions, and modify interventions in collaboration with the inter-professional team
respond to emergency situations and implement appropriate interventions
Communication and Interpersonal Skills present information clearly and concisely
adapt your communication style for diverse populations
work collaboratively with others
encourage patient participation in their plan of care
document care and progress through progress notes, care plans, and summaries
support patients in achieving identified treatment goals
Hours of Work The hours of work are 40 hours per week. You are expected to work rotating shifts in a health care unit that provides 7 days per week service, up to 24 hours a day
What we offer You will have the opportunity to provide essential mental health care to a marginalized and often stigmatized population, helping patients in custody manage their mental health issues and supporting their rehabilitation and chances of successfully re-entering the community
The unconventional setting and complex cases challenge you to adapt and grow professionally,



enhancing problem-solving abilities and offering a unique set of experiences and learning opportunities
By improving the health and well-being of patients in custody, you will contribute significantly to improving their health outcomes and contribute to public health and safety
Working as a mental health nurse in a correctional facility can be highly rewarding for several reasons:
The Ontario Public Service is one of Ontario's largest employers. Employees work for various ministries, with offices in more than 70 cities across the province. We offer:
a career that can grow across ministries and job functions
flexible learning and developmental opportunities, including education and mentorship programs
many employee networks offering support for and education about underrepresented groups
Additional information Address: 4 English Temporary, duration up to 12 months, 165 Barton St E, Hamilton, West Region, Vulnerable Sector Check, Credit History Check, Local Police Databases Search, PIP/NICHE/RMS
1 English Permanent, 165 Barton St E, Hamilton, West Region, Vulnerable Sector Check, Credit History Check, Local Police Databases Search, PIP/NICHE/RMS
Understanding the job ad - definitions
Schedule: 4-7
Category: Health and Social Services
Posted on: Tuesday, August 18, 2026
Note: About security checks:
A criminal or other federal offence record does not automatically disqualify you from the position. We consider each situation based on the position's responsibilities.
If a check is needed and you've lived outside of Canada in the past 5 years for 6 or more months in a row, or if you are not a Canadian resident, you'll need to provide an out-of-country police clearance certificate from the country you lived in.
Employment screening checks are only reviewed and evaluated by the Transition and Security Office, which also maintains them and keeps them strictly confidential.
Remember: The deadline to apply is Tuesday, September 1, 2026 11:59 pm EDT . Late applications will not be accepted.
We thank you for your interest. Only those selected for further screening or an interview will be contacted.
The Ontario Public Service is an inclusive employer. Accommodation is available under the Ontario's Human Rights Code .
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📌 Mental Health Nurse (Ontario)
🏢 Solicitor General | Solliciteur général
📍 Ontario