Program Director

MHA (Mental Health Association); Chicopee (MA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 62,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health Care Plan

Retirement Plan

Paid Time Off

Family Leave

Long Term Disability

Job summary

The Program Director at MHA oversees daily operations of multiple housing programs, providing leadership, supervision, and strategic direction to ensure recovery-oriented, trauma-informed, and person-centered services.

This role partners with funders, maintains budgets, drives program development, and ensures compliance with licensing and accreditation. A strong candidate will mentor staff, build community relationships, and advance Housing First principles.

Qualifications

• Requires high school diploma or equivalent; bachelor's degree preferred.
• Minimum 5 years of supervisory experience in housing, homelessness, or tenancy preservation.
• Lived experience of homelessness and/or recovery preferred.
• Bilingual/Bicultural candidates encouraged to apply.
• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills; able to manage multiple programs and teams.

Responsibilities

• Provide clinical and administrative leadership to Program Supervisors.
• Oversee daily operations of multiple housing programs in alignment with Housing First and harm-reduction principles.
• Review and approve participant assessments, referrals, placements, and support needs.
• Monitor program budgets and ensure responsible fiscal management.
• Ensure accurate documentation to meet licensing, funding, and CARF accreditation requirements.
• Oversee staff hiring, training, performance evaluations, supervision, and professional development.
• Coordinate with funders and external stakeholders; participate in audits, site visits, and program reviews.
• Lead the implementation of new programs and major program changes with senior leadership.
• Build and maintain partnerships with state and local agencies to support program success.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Organizational skills

Staff supervision

Budget management

Bilingual/Bicultural

Program development

Multisite program oversight

Housing First principles

Trauma-informed care

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Bachelor's degree preferred

Job description

Position Summary

The Program Director oversees and manages the daily operations of multiple housing programs, providing leadership, supervision, and strategic direction. The role ensures the delivery of recovery-oriented, trauma-informed, and person-centered services aligned with the mission of MHA and in compliance with all applicable regulatory, contractual, and accreditation requirements. The Program Director supports staff growth, maintains budget oversight, drives program development, and fosters strong relationships with funders and community stakeholders.

Pay Range: $60,000 - $62,000 annually

Schedule: Monday through Friday 9am-5pm (40hrs)

Key Responsibilities

• Provide clinical and administrative leadership to Program Supervisors, ensuring high-quality services aligned with Housing First and harm-reduction principles.
• Oversee daily operations of multiple housing programs, ensuring compliance with organizational, regulatory, and funder requirements.
• Review and approve participant assessments, referrals, placements, and support needs.
• Monitor program budgets and promote responsible fiscal management.
• Ensure accurate and timely documentation to meet licensing, funding, and CARF accreditation requirements.
• Oversee staff hiring, training, performance evaluations, supervision, and professional development.
• Coordinate with funders and external stakeholders and participate in audits, site visits, and program reviews.
• Lead the implementation of new programs and major program changes in collaboration with senior leadership.
• Build and maintain partnerships with state, local, and community agencies to support program success.
• Lead team meetings, promote best practices in housing and behavioral health, and support MHA's mission, values, and organizational initiatives

About The Division Of Supportive Housing

The Division of Supportive Housing (DSH) provides safe, stable housing and individualized wraparound services for individuals who have experienced chronic homelessness, many of whom are also navigating challenges related to substance use, incarceration, or trauma. DSH programs focus on long-term stability and help participants transition to independent, permanent housing. Through person-centered care, housing navigation, and community-based supports, we empower individuals to build a foundation for recovery, self-sufficiency, and a better quality of life.

Equal Opportunity Statement

The Mental Health Association is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Requirements

• Valid driver's license, reliable vehicle, acceptable driving record, and sufficient insurance
• High school diploma or equivalent required; Bachelor's Degree preferred
• Minimum 5 years of supervisory experience in housing, homelessness, or tenancy preservation required
• Lived experience of homelessness and/or recovery from mental health or substance use conditions preferred
• Bilingual/Bicultural candidates strongly encouraged to apply
• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple programs and teams effectively
• Proficiency in managing program budgets and reporting requirements
• Knowledge of Housing First, trauma-informed care, harm-reduction, and person-centered planning approaches

Benefits

• Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
• Retirement Plan (403B, IRA)
• Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
• Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity)
• Long Term Disability
• $60,000 - $62,000 annually