Program Manager - Overdose Prevention & Recovery Services

Program Manager – Overdose Prevention & Recovery Services

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Program Manager – Overdose Prevention & Recovery Services

Salary

$68,702.40 - $106,267.20 Annually

Location

Des Moines - 50319 - Polk County, IA

Job Type

Full-time

Job Number

26-03290

Agency

400 Health & Human Services - Behavioral Health

Opening Date

06/05/2026

Closing Date

6/15/2026 11:59 PM Central

LinkedIn Tag

#LI-POST

Point of Contact

Pam Dolezal - View email address on click.appcast.io

• Description

• Benefits

• Questions

Job Description

Only applicants who meet the Minimum Qualification Requirements and meet all selective requirements will be placed on the eligible list.

Position Title: Program Manager – Overdose Prevention & Recovery Services

Join Us in Saving Lives and Strengthening Recovery Across Iowa

Are you driven by purpose? Passionate about creating healthier communities? Ready to make a measurable impact in preventing overdoses and expanding recovery opportunities statewide?

The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services is seeking a mission-focused Program Manager to lead some of our state’s most critical efforts to reduce substance-related harms and support recovery. This role offers the opportunity to shape programs, influence systems change and work alongside dedicated professionals committed to improving the lives of Iowans.

What You’ll Do

As a key leader in the Division of Behavioral Health, you will guide statewide initiatives funded through the Overdose Data to Action (OD2A) project and opioid settlement funds. You will help drive the direction of Iowa’s prevention and recovery ecosystem by:

• Leading flagship statewide projects that prevent overdoses and expand access to meaningful recovery supports.

• Advancing evidence-based strategies across Iowa’s continuum of care.

• Guiding and supporting staff who are on the ground implementing prevention and recovery initiatives.

• Partnering with local, state, and national organizations to innovate, collaborate, and bring best practices to Iowa.

• Ensuring programs are effective, accountable, and continuously improving to meet the needs of communities.

• This is a role for someone who wants to lead with purpose and help build a healthier, more resilient Iowa.

Your Impact

You will directly influence programs that:

• Expand Recovery Housing, Recovery Community Centers, Recovery Cafés, and Recovery Support Services.

• Strengthen statewide prevention infrastructure through training, technical assistance, and workforce development.

• Increase public awareness through media, communications, and community outreach.

• Improve the quality and performance of service providers statewide.

• Advance data-driven decision-making by working closely with epidemiologists and project teams.

• Support strategic planning, policy development, and systems improvement across the Division of Behavioral Health.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead major prevention and recovery initiatives, including project planning, design, and implementation.

• Oversee contracts, budgets, compliance requirements, and performance monitoring.

• Conduct site visits, support providers, and ensure fidelity to evidence-based practices.

• Develop RFPs, manage procurement processes, and support funding strategy.

• Coordinate statewide partnerships and represent the Division at meetings and industry workgroups.

• Develop prevention materials, resources, public awareness messaging, and digital content.

• Facilitate training, workgroups, advisory committees, and collaborative meetings.

• Support high-quality reporting for state and federal funders.

• Identify system barriers and recommend innovative solutions that strengthen Iowa’s prevention-treatment-recovery continuum.

Who Thrives in This Role

This position is ideal for someone who:

• Is energized by public service and community impact.

• Thinks strategically and executes effectively.

• Builds strong partnerships and leads with collaboration.

• Values data, evidence-based practice, and continuous improvement.

• Enjoys managing complex projects with statewide reach.

• Is passionate about prevention, recovery, and behavioral health.

Benefits

Working for the State of Iowa comes with its perks. In addition to a competitive salary, you'll enjoy a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being and professional growth:

• Health, Dental, and Vision Coverage: Health and dental insurance packages to keep you and your family healthy at a low cost with outstanding coverage!

• Paid Time Off: Take time to recharge with paid time off, including vacation (96 hours/year to begin, increasing with years of service), sick leave (144 hours/year), and paid holidays (9 days/year).

• Retirement Plans: Participate in retirement plans such as IPERS (employees contribute 6.29% and the State of Iowa contributes 9.44%) as well as our Retirement Investors Club (RIC), Employer Sponsored Retirement Plan (the State of Iowa matches dollar for dollar up to $75/month).

• Flexible Spending Accounts: Take advantage of flexible spending accounts for medical and dependent care expenses.

• Insurance Coverage: Benefit from life insurance and free long-term disability insurance for added peace of mind.

• Employee Assistance Program: Access resources and support through our Employee Assistance Program for personal and professional challenges.

• Employee Discount Programs: Enjoy discounts on a variety of goods and services through our employee discount programs.

For additional information on benefits click here.

Click hereto see how we compare with other employers or offers by using our Total Compensation Calculator.

Background Checks

Applicants will be required to complete a background check to be considered for this position.

The State of Iowa is an EEO/AA Employer

HHS values those with “lived experience” and encourages adults who were fostered as youth, foster parents, and/or parents who were in the DHS system to apply. Minorities, women, persons with disabilities and veterans are encouraged to apply (Hearing and Speech Impaired – Relay Iowa View phone number on click.appcast.io TDD).

E-Verify and Right to Work

The State of Iowa participates in E-Verify, a federal program that helps employers confirm the employment eligibility of all newly hired employees. Within the required timeframe, new hires will be verified through the E-Verify system to ensure authorization to work in the United States. The State of Iowa also complies with the federalRight to Worklaws, which protect employees’ rights to work without being required to join a labor organization. For more information, please visit

Selectives

Public Health

6 months’ experience, 12 semester hours, or a combination of both related to improving, maintaining, and protecting the general condition of health within society, either on a personal, institutional, organizational, or community basis. Experience may be gained from direct provision of health care or from other ancillary programs and support mechanisms such as government public health departments.

AND

Social Work• 6 months’ experience as a Social Worker or 6 months’ experience in the following areas: • Activities Specialist (in a therapeutic capacity) • Youth Counselor • Treatment Program professionals • Psychologist and Psychology Assistant • Drug Abuse and Correctional Counselor • Probation/Parole Officer • Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor • School Counselor

AND

Substance Abuse Programs

6 months’ experience, 12 semester hours, or a combination of both in prevention programs, clinical substance abuse, or preventative abuse (counselors, treatment workers) that includes: • Applicants who develop and/or present programs designed to inform a population on the use, abuse, and dependency of alcohol or other drugs. • Initiation, design and/or review of education curriculums, which include alcohol/drug, related information (pharmacology, reasons for use, chemical dependency, etc.). • Presentations to professionals, community organizations, youth in school, on chemical dependency. • Preparation of media campaigns, including newspaper articles and public service announcements on prevention of substance abuse. • Training of youth, parents, and professionals in assertiveness training (“saying no” strategies), communication skills, assertive discipline, decision-making, peer helping, employee assistance programming, and/or student assistance programming. • Consultation with community organizations or other human service providers to develop prevention programming. • Provide OWI classes to first-time offenders. • Inform the public of the effects of chemical dependency on families.

Minimum Qualification Requirements

Applicants must meet at least one of the following minimum requirements to qualify for positions in this job classification:

1. Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a degree in any field,andexperience equal to four years of full-time professional-level workin program administration, program development, program operations, or management.

2. A total of eight years of education and/or full-time experience (as described in number one), where thirty semester hours of accredited college or university course work in any field equals one year of full-time experience.

3. All of the following (a, b, and c): a. Two years of full-time professional-level work experience in program administration, program development, program operations, or management; and b. A total of four years of education and full-time experience (as described in part a), where thirty semester hours of accredited college or university course work in any field equals one year of full-time experience; and c. A total of two years of graduate-level education and full-time experience (as described in part a), where twenty-four semester hours of accredited graduate college or university course work in a public-service-related area (e.g., public or business administration, social work, public health, law, education, engineering) equals one year of full-time experience. Graduation from the Iowa Certified Public Manager Program is also equivalent to one year of full-time experience or education.

4. Current, continuous experience in the state executive branch that includes twelve months of full-time work as an Executive Officer 1 or comparable specific management-level position.

For additional information, please click on thislink to view the job description ( .

Why Choose the State of Iowa?

At the heart of our commitment to excellence is a dedication to our most valuable asset – our employees. Discover the outstanding benefits that set us apart as an employer of choice.

Our Robust Benefits Package Includes:

Competitive Compensation:

Enjoy a competitive salary that reflects directly on your skills and expertise.

Keep in mind, your wage is just one part of your total compensation. Unlock the complete value of your employment with the State of Iowa by using our user-friendlyTotal Compensation Calculator ( .Gain insights into your comprehensive annual compensation, including salary and State-provided benefits.

Health and Wellness:

Prioritize your well-being with our comprehensive health plans, including medical, dental, and vision coverage. Enjoy the peace of mind knowing that the State of Iowa covers 90% of the premiums, providing you and your loved ones with excellent coverage at a remarkably low cost.

Retirement Planning:

We are proud to offer the Iowa Public Employees Retirement System (IPERS). A defined benefit plan, IPERS benefits are guaranteed for life, meaning once you retire, you will receive the same monthly benefit for the remainder of your life (once vested). We invest in your long-term financial well-being, so you can retire with peace of mind.Click here to learn more about IPERS ( .

Paid Time Off:

Life is unpredictable, and at the State of Iowa, we understand the importance of work-life balance. Our leave policies, including paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave with unlimited accrual, ensure you have the flexibility you need for personal and family matters.

Professional Development:

Elevate your career with continuous learning opportunities. We support your growth through training programs, workshops, and tuition reimbursement.

Employee Assistance Program (EAP):

We care about your well-being beyond the workplace. Access confidential counseling, resources, and support through our Employee Assistance Program.

Diversity and Inclusion:

Be part of a diverse and inclusive workplace that embraces all backgrounds and perspectives. We believe diversity is a strength that drives innovation.

Join Us - Elevate Your Career:

Ready to elevate your career with the State of Iowa?Click here ( to explore more about our unparalleled benefits and discover what makes us unique. Your success is our priority!

01

Do you understand that the answers to all of the following questions must be truthful, honest, and accurate to the best of your ability? Please read all questions and answers thoroughly and make sure you understand them completely.Ensure the answers to your questions match the information filled out on your application and the attachments you have uploaded. If the answers to your questions are inconsistent with your application information or uploaded attachments, you will be given zero points for the question.Knowingly misrepresenting the facts when submitting any information related to an application, examination, certification, appeal, or any other facet of the selection process will result in your disqualification from this application and future employment with the state of Iowa.

• Yes - I understand and agree.

• No

02

PLEASE READ CAREFULLY

Have you filed a registration statement pursuant to the federal Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938, as amended, 22 U.S.C. §611 et seq?

• No - I have NOT filed a registration statement pursuant to the federal Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938, as amended, 22 U.S.C. §611 et seq

• Yes - I HAVE filed a registration statement pursuant to the federal Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938, as amended, 22 U.S.C. §611 et seq

03

Have you graduated from an accredited four year college or university? IF YES- How many years do you have of full-time professional level work in program administration, program development, program operations, or management?

• I have not graduated from an accredited four year college or university

• Less than two years of the identified experience

• Two years to less than four years of the identified experience

• Four years or more of the identified experience

04

How many years do you have of COMBINED post high school education AND/OR experience in full-time professional level work such as program administration, program development, program operations, or management? 30 semester hours equals one year of experience.

• I do not have any of the education and/or experience

• Less than four years of the combined education and/or experience

• Four years to less than eight years of the combined education and/or experience

• Eight years or more of the combined education and/or experience

05

Have you graduated from the Iowa Certified Public Manager Program?IF YES- How many years do you have of COMBINED post high school education AND/OR experience in full-time professional level work such as program administration, program development, program operations, or management.? 30 semester hours equals one year of experience.

• I have not graduated from the Iowa Certified Public Manager Program

• Less than four years of the combined education and/or experience

• Four years to less than seven years of the combined education and/or experience

• Seven years or more of the combined education and/or experience

06

Are you a current State of Iowa employee? IF YES - How many months do you have of continuous experience in the state executive branch as an Executive Officer 1 or a comparable management level position?

• I am not a State of Iowa employee

• Less than 12 months of experience as an Executive Officer 1 or a comparable management level position

• 12 months or more of experience as an Executive Officer 1 or a comparable management level position

07

Have you graduated from an accredited four year college or university? IF YES - How many years do you have of COMBINED GRADUATE level (post bachelor's degree) course work in a public-service-related area (e.g., public or business administration, social work, public health, law, education, engineering) AND/OR full-time professional level work such as program administration, program development, program operations, or management? Twenty-four hours of the identified graduate level course work equals one year of experience. A MAXIMUM of 48 semester hours of graduate course work may be counted.

• I have not graduated from an accredited four year college or university

• Less than four years of the combined graduate education AND/OR experience

• Four years or more of the combined graduate education AND/OR experience

08

Does your application demonstrate that you have 6 months' experience as a Social Worker or 6 months' experience in the following areas:

• Activities Specialist (in a therapeutic capacity)

• Youth Counselor

• Treatment Program professionals

• Psychologist and Psychology Assistant

• Drug Abuse and Correctional Counselor

• Probation/Parole Officer

• Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor

• School Counselor?

• Yes

• No

09

Does your application demonstrate that you have 6 months' experience, 12 semester hours, or a combination of both in prevention programs, clinical substance abuse, or preventative abuse (counselors, treatment workers) that includes:

• Applicants who develop and/or present programs designed to inform a population on the use, abuse, and dependency of alcohol or other drugs.

• Initiation, design and/or review of education curriculums, which include alcohol/drug, related information (pharmacology, reasons for use, chemical dependency, etc.).

• Presentations to professionals, community organizations, youth in school, on chemical dependency.

• Preparation of media campaigns, including newspaper articles and public service announcements on prevention of substance abuse.

• Training of youth, parents, and professionals in assertiveness training ("saying no" strategies), communication skills, assertive discipline, decision-making, peer helping, employee assistance programming, and/or student assistance programming.

• Consultation with community organizations or other human service providers to develop prevention programming.

• Provide OWI classes to first-time offenders.

• Inform the public of the effects of chemical dependency on families?

• Yes

• No

10

Does your application demonstrate that you have 6 months' experience, 12 semester hours, or a combination of both related to improving, maintaining, and protecting the general condition of health within society, either on a personal, institutional, organizational, or community basis? (Experience may be gained from direct provision of health care or from other ancillary programs and support mechanisms such as government public health departments).

• Yes

• No

11

If you answered "Yes" to the Selective questions above - please list exactly HOW you meet it: list exact classes and credit hours, employer, dates and hours per week and exact duties. Please do not paste or state - See application or resume. If you answered no to the question above please type in "No" in the box below.]

Required Question

Employer

State of Iowa

Agency

400 Health & Human Services - Behavioral Health

Address

Lucas State Office Building

321 E. 12th Street

Des Moines, Iowa, 50319

Website

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