Director, Substance Use Full Time

About The Position

Requirements

• Comprehensive knowledge of substance use disorders, evidence-based treatment modalities (including medication-assisted treatment), and recovery-oriented systems of care.
• Demonstrated leadership and supervisory skills, with the ability to mentor program managers and clinical staff across multiple service lines.
• Knowledge of ASAM criteria and the continuum of substance use care, including outpatient and intensive outpatient levels.
• Familiarity with Illinois DBHR regulations, licensing standards, and Medicaid/billing requirements for substance use programs.
• Excellent communication, collaboration, and relationship-building skills for working with internal teams, community partners, and persons served.
• Ability to analyze program data, identify trends, and implement quality improvement strategies.
• Proficiency in clinical documentation and electronic health record systems.
• Cultural humility and commitment to equitable, inclusive service delivery for diverse populations.
• Ability to navigate complex organizational and community systems with diplomacy and effectiveness.
• Meets the definition of a Mental Health Professional (MHP) as defined by the Illinois Division of Behavioral Health and Recovery (DBHR).
• Current licensure as a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) and/or clinical licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) or Licensed Social Worker (LSW).
• Minimum of 21 years of age.
• A valid driver’s license, reliable means of transportation, and proof of automobile insurance.

Nice To Haves

• Meets the definition of Qualified Mental Health Professional (QMHP) as defined by Illinois DBHR upon hire, or ability to obtain QMHP status within one year of hire date.
• Experience in a director-level or other leadership role within a behavioral health or substance use treatment setting.
• Demonstrated experience with outreach program development and community engagement strategies.

Responsibilities

• Provide direct supervision and support to the Program Manager of Substance Use Services, fostering a culture of accountability, professional growth, and person-centered care.
• Provide clinical and administrative oversight of all outpatient levels of care for substance use, including standard outpatient, intensive outpatient (IOP), and other ASAM-level services.
• Oversee the Medication Assisted Recovery (MAR) Program, ensuring evidence-based practices, regulatory compliance, and integration with the broader continuum of care.
• Serve as a strategic leader in the planning, development, and implementation of outreach initiatives designed to expand access to substance use services for underserved individuals in the community.
• Build and maintain collaborative relationships with community partners, referral sources, healthcare providers, and other stakeholders to support service expansion and continuity of care.
• Monitor program outcomes, quality indicators, and compliance with DBHR, CARF, and other applicable regulatory standards; implement performance improvement initiatives as needed.
• Ensure accurate and timely clinical documentation and performance standards are upheld across all substance use programs in accordance with agency and regulatory requirements.
• Participate in consultation and provide guidance to clinical staff on complex or high-risk cases.
• Stay current on emerging trends, legislation, and best practices in substance use treatment and communicate relevant developments to staff and leadership.

Benefits

• Generous time off: vacation, sick, personal, and holidays
• Wellness benefits: paid wellness days, EAP, fitness reimbursement
• Comprehensive insurance: health, dental, vision, flex spending accounts
• Retirement: 401(k) and Roth options
• Professional growth: tuition assistance and continuing education
• Loan forgiveness eligibility through NHSC