Program Supervisor

The

Program Supervisor

is a hands-on leadership role responsible for overseeing a team of Recovery

Support staff within a residential substance use disorder (SUD) treatment facility. This individual

ensures safe, compassionate, trauma-informed support services for clients by coordinating daily

operations, providing direct supervision, and modeling excellence in client care. The Supervisor will

also perform the duties of an RSS as needed, promoting continuity of care and staff accountability.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Leadership Responsibilities



Supervise, coach, and evaluate Recovery Support Specialists; ensure compliance with monthly

supervision and annual performance review requirements.



Collaborate with nursing, clinical, and administrative teams to ensure integrated, client-

centered care.



Develop and maintain the RSS staffing schedule; ensure appropriate coverage and alignment

with team strengths and competencies.



Lead orientation and onboarding for all new RSS staff, ensuring completion of training within

the first 60 days.



Develop and facilitate training materials, in-service education, and ongoing skill development

for the RSS team.



Monitor team adherence to facility policies, safety protocols, and therapeutic best practices.

Client Support and Direct Care



Conduct comprehensive client orientations within 48 hours of admission, covering program

rules, expectations, and support services.



Facilitate psychoeducational and life skills groups to support recovery and reintegration.



Support clinical processes including intake, UA administration, transportation, and recreational

programming.



Monitor and de-escalate behavioral issues, applying trauma-informed and ethical response

strategies.



Maintain detailed documentation of incidents, client progress, and shift activities per

organizational policy.



Ensure safe oversight of daily routines including housekeeping, meals, and medication lines.



Perform all other duties as assigned.

Qualifications and Knowledge

Required



Experience training, mentoring, or onboarding new staff.



Must obtain First Aid/CPR within 30 days of hire.



Valid driver’s license required; must meet all state-specific licensing requirements and be

eligible to transport patients in accordance with state regulations and company policy. Must

maintain an acceptable driving record.

Preferred



Certification as a Peer Recovery Support Specialist (PRSS).



Medication Technician/Medication Aide state certification preferred

Education and experience

Required



Bachelor’s degree in human services, behavioral health, psychology, or related field OR at least

2 years’ experience in behavioral health/SUD support services.



Minimum 1 year of supervisory or team leadership experience.



Demonstrated knowledge of 12-Step programming and/or co-occurring disorders preferred.



Valid driver’s license and insurable driving record.

Key Competencies

Trauma-Informed Practice

Demonstrates sensitivity to the effects of trauma and integrates

principles of safety, trustworthiness, choice, collaboration, and empowerment into interactions with

clients and staff.

Client-Centered Communication

Uses active listening, clear language, and affirming tone to

support clients’ recovery and emotional regulation.

Crisis De-escalation and Behavioral Observation

Recognizes early warning signs of agitation or

risk, applies de-escalation techniques, and communicates effectively with clinical staff.

Ethical Decision Making

Consistently applies facility policies and professional standards to resolve

complex or sensitive situations while preserving client dignity.

Cultural Humility and Inclusivity

Maintains awareness of one’s own biases; respects diverse

identities and adapts support strategies to meet client needs.

Work Conditions/Physical and Mental Requirements

Work Environment

Indoor, climate-controlled clinical setting. Qualifications and Knowledge

Required



Experience training, mentoring, or onboarding new staff.



Must obtain First Aid/CPR within 30 days of hire.



Valid driver’s license required; must meet all state-specific licensing requirements and be

eligible to transport patients in accordance with state regulations and company policy. Must

maintain an acceptable driving record.

Preferred



Certification as a Peer Recovery Support Specialist (PRSS).



Medication Technician/Medication Aide state certification preferred

Education and experience

Required



Bachelor’s degree in human services, behavioral health, psychology, or related field OR at least

2 years’ experience in behavioral health/SUD support services.



Minimum 1 year of supervisory or team leadership experience.



Demonstrated knowledge of 12-Step programming and/or co-occurring disorders preferred.



Valid driver’s license and insurable driving record.

Key Competencies

Trauma-Informed Practice

Demonstrates sensitivity to the effects of trauma and integrates

principles of safety, trustworthiness, choice, collaboration, and empowerment into interactions with

clients and staff.

Client-Centered Communication

Uses active listening, clear language, and affirming tone to

support clients’ recovery and emotional regulation.

Crisis De-escalation and Behavioral Observation

Recognizes early warning signs of agitation or

risk, applies de-escalation techniques, and communicates effectively with clinical staff.

Ethical Decision Making

Consistently applies facility policies and professional standards to resolve

complex or sensitive situations while preserving client dignity.

Cultural Humility and Inclusivity

Maintains awareness of one’s own biases; respects diverse

identities and adapts support strategies to meet client needs.

Work Conditions/Physical and Mental Requirements

Work Environment

Indoor, climate-controlled clinical setting.

Physical Demands

Regular sitting, walking, standing, and use of hands. May involve lifting

(

Cognitive/Emotional Requirements

Requires high-level critical thinking, emotional resilience, and ethical judgment in complex clinical

situations.

Must balance clinical demands, documentation accuracy, and interdisciplinary communication.

Performance Expectations

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Demonstrates reliable attendance and punctuality.

Recognized as a “go-to” staff member and trusted shift leader.

Effectively trains and supports new team members.

Maintains calm, professional presence during crises or incidents.

Models’ adherence to program expectations, boundaries, and client engagement best practices.

Equal Opportunity Statement

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and value diversity and inclusion. All qualified applicants will

receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation,

gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or

any other characteristic protected by applicable law. We are committed to creating an inclusive

environment for all employees.