Adult Outpatient Program Manager

Job Description

Job Description

Adult Outpatient Program Manager

Location: 3645 E McLeod Rd Bellingham, WA - Whatcom County
FLSA Status: Exempt
Supervisory Responsibilities: Yes
Reports to: Director of Whatcom County Outpatient
Union: No

About the Role

The Program Manager directs the ongoing operations of outpatient behavioral health services within an assigned program area. This leadership role provides clinical and administrative supervision to staff, ensures efficient program operations, and supports high-quality, accessible, and compliant care.

The Program Manager collaborates across disciplines and departments to ensure continuity of care, operational effectiveness, and achievement of program goals, and serves as a key leader supporting staff development and program performance.

Key ResponsibilitiesLeadership & Program Operations

• Oversee day-to-day program operations to ensure efficient service delivery and access to care.
• Provide clinical and administrative supervision, including hiring, onboarding, training, coaching, and performance evaluation.
• Develop and maintain staffing plans to meet service demand and productivity expectations.
• Ensure services are delivered in accordance with agency policies, regulatory requirements, and payer expectations.
• Develop and implement staff training plans and conduct annual evaluations.
• Maintain compliance with all building, health, fire, and safety standards.
• Oversee business operations including billing, data management, and compliance requirements.
• Participate in budget development and monitor budget, policies, and productivity standards.
• Ensure clinical documentation meets agency and regulatory guidelines.
• Support quality improvement initiatives based on client satisfaction, outcomes, and performance indicators.
• Foster a positive, solution-focused team environment aligned with Compass Health values.

Clinical & Community Leadership

• Provide crisis intervention, consultation, and operational support to staff and other programs as needed.
• Coordinate services with health plans, hospitals, courts, law enforcement, community organizations, and other partners.
• Represent Compass Health in community meetings, committees, and external partnerships.
• Serve as backup to the Director for meetings, presentations, and leadership responsibilities.
• Develop and share expertise in Evidence-Based Practices and behavioral health services with staff.

Program Expectations

• Participate in regularly scheduled supervision and team meetings.
• Maintain compliance with required trainings, certifications, and licensing standards.
• Adhere to ethical and professional standards consistent with agency policy and state regulations.
• Ensure protection of client protected health information in accordance with HIPAA and agency policies.
• Demonstrate commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and multicultural competency.
• Demonstrate alignment with Compass Health’s Strategic Intention, Core Values, and Core Competencies.

What You BringEducation & Experience

• MA, MS, or MSW degree in a Behavioral Science related field.
• Qualifies as a Mental Health Professional (MHP) as defined by Washington Administrative Code (WAC).
• Current Washington State licensure (or equivalent) preferred.
• Dual certification in Chemical Dependency Treatment preferred.
• Minimum of four (4) years of direct clinical service experience in a behavioral health setting.
• Experience providing treatment planning, therapy, case management, and crisis intervention.
• Previous supervisory or management experience preferred.
• Knowledge of or ability to learn Evidence-Based Practices.
• Washington State Approved Supervisor Training required prior to providing clinical supervision.
• Must obtain Agency Affiliated Counselor status if not already licensed.
• Valid Washington State Driver’s License and current insurance required.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Strong leadership, administrative, and clinical supervision skills.
• Ability to plan, organize, direct, and manage program operations.
• Ability to work effectively with individuals experiencing complex needs and multi-system involvement.
• Strong conflict resolution and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent organizational and communication skills.
• Proficiency with electronic medical record systems and general computer use.
• Ability to pass required background checks.

What We Offer

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Account (FSA) options
• Employer-paid Life and Long-Term Disability Insurance
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Generous Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Paid Holidays
• 403(b) Retirement Plan with Employer Match
• Professional Development Funds
• Education Leave Opportunities
• Employee Wellness Programs
• Opportunities for Growth and Advancement
• A mission-driven culture dedicated to improving lives and strengthening communities

About Compass Health

Compass Health is Northwest Washington's behavioral healthcare leader, providing comprehensive mental health, substance use disorder, and supportive housing services to individuals and families across Snohomish, Skagit, Island, San Juan, and Whatcom counties.

Our mission is to provide exceptional care that changes lives and strengthens communities through innovative, person-centered behavioral health services.

Learn more at

Physical Demands / Work Environment

This position operates primarily in a clinical office environment and may require outreach to community settings including client homes, hospitals, medical facilities, schools, jails, courts, and community organizations.

While performing the duties of this position, employees must occasionally lift and/or move up to 20 pounds and regularly sit, stand, walk, speak, and use close vision. The work environment is generally moderate in noise level.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Compass Health is an Equal Opportunity Employer, supporting equity regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, or disability unless based on a bona fide occupational qualification.