Program Director-3.1 Substance Abuse Treatment

Job Description

Job Description

Program Director- 3.1 Substance Abuse Treatment \

Job Title: Program Director 

Location: Survival House, Hagerstown, Maryland 

Facility Type: New 3.1 Substance Abuse Treatment Center 

Expected Opening Date: February 2026

Opportunity 

We are opening a brand-new ASAM 3.1 Clinically Managed  Residential Substance Use Treatment Facility, and we are seeking an experienced Program Director to build, launch, and lead the program from the ground up.

This role is responsible for setting up the entire facility for successful opening, including:

• Developing all policies and procedures

• Ensuring full COMAR 10.63 compliance

• Preparing for state licensing inspections

• Hiring and training staff

• Creating operational systems

• Establishing clinical and case management structure

• Coordinating with outside providers (IOP, MAT, mental health)

• Leading the program once residents arrive

This is a hands-on leadership role for someone who understands residential SUD treatment and is confident in building a program from scratch.

Key Responsibilities

Program Development & Facility Launch

• Create and implement all required policies, procedures, manuals, and operational systems for a new 3.1 program

• Prepare the facility for state licensing and regulatory inspections

• Build the program structure, including daily schedules, house rules, documentation workflows, staffing patterns, and emergency plans

• Establish relationships with referral sources, MAT clinics, courts, and community partners

• Ensure compliance with COMAR 10.63, ASAM standards, and ethical guidelines

Leadership & Staff Management

• Recruit, hire, and onboard staff such as support staff, CPRS, case managers, and house managers

• Train all employees on policies, documentation expectations, crisis response, safety, and client engagement

• Provide ongoing supervision, coaching, scheduling, and performance management

• Lead team meetings and maintain a positive, recovery-focused culture

Compliance & Quality Assurance

• Maintain complete compliance with Maryland regulations, licensing requirements, and internal standards

• Develop systems for incident reporting, grievances, safety checks, and chart audits

• Ensure accurate and timely documentation across all departments

• Oversee client files, treatment plans, intakes, and discharges

• Prepare the program for state audits and continuous quality improvement (CQI)

Client Care Oversight

• Ensure clients receive high-quality recovery support, case management, and structured residential services

• Work collaboratively with external providers (IOP, MAT, mental health clinicians)

• Support crisis management, conflict resolution, and resident concerns

• Ensure the program maintains a safe, structured, and therapeutic living environment

Operations & Administrative Oversight

• Oversee daily facility operations, staffing coverage, and house procedures

• Maintain compliance logs (fire drills, safety checks, UAs, transportation records, etc.)

• Assist with budget planning, supply ordering, and resource allocation

• Manage bed availability, intake flow, and communication with referral partners

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Health, Human Services, Social Work, Psychology, or related field (Master’s preferred)

• Minimum 3–5 years of experience in substance use treatment, residential services, or behavioral health leadership

• Strong knowledge of COMAR 10.63, ASAM criteria, and Maryland licensing requirements

• Proven experience in developing or managing a treatment or recovery program

• Ability to lead teams, manage crises, and create structure in a new environment

• Excellent communication, organization, and documentation skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Licensed professional (LMSW, LGPC, LCPC, LCSW-C) or certified addiction counselor (CAC-AD/CSC-AD)

• CPRS or experience supervising peer recovery staff

• Experience opening a new treatment program or sober living environment

• Familiarity with Medicaid billing and documentation standards

Work Environment

• Full-time, on-site leadership role

• Must be available for emergency calls and occasional off-hours needs

• Fast-paced start-up environment requiring flexibility, creativity, and strong problem-solving

Compensation

• Competitive salary based on experience

• Benefits package available after initial startup period

• Performance Bonus awarded upon successful program startup and opening

Application Process 

If you are a passionate, motivated, and forward-thinking leader who is ready to make a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals overcoming substance use challenges, we encourage you to apply. Please submit your resume and a cover letter to the email below, highlighting your relevant experience and your vision for building a strong, effective, and client-centered treatment program from the ground up.

We look forward to the opportunity to meet with you, learn more about your vision and goals, and welcoming a dedicated Program Director who will help shape the future of our Survival House family.

In the subject line, please include:
Program Director – Your Full Name

Email: View email address on ziprecruiter.com

**Survival House is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to fostering an inclusive, supportive, and empowering workplace for all employees.**