Assistant Director

About the role

The Assistant Director supports the overall operations of an assigned substance use treatment program. Key responsibilities include leading and overseeing operations, providing clinical oversight, supervising staff, monitoring program performance, and collaborating with internal and external partners.

Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee the day-to-day operations of the assigned substance use treatment program to ensure delivery of high-quality client care and full compliance with contractual, regulatory, and accreditation standards.
• Provide clinical oversight by reviewing client records, treatment and discharge plans, conducting case reviews, and facilitating clinical staff meetings to ensure consistent, effective treatment practices.
• Supervise, coach, and develop clinical and support staff, including hiring recommendations, performance evaluation, training, scheduling, and disciplinary actions to ensure efficient staffing and strong team performance.
• Maintain a small caseload and provide individual, group, and family counseling sessions as needed to support continuity of care and address staffing gaps.
• Aid in program development by refining policies, procedures, and services, and supporting implementation of new or enhanced programming.
• Support budget planning and oversight by monitoring expenditures, controlling costs, and recommending adjustments to maintain financial performance.
• Investigate and resolve client, staff, or visitor concerns and incidents, ensuring appropriate documentation and escalation when necessary.
• Collaborate with internal teams and external partners to manage program census, optimize resource utilization, and maintain strong referral relationships.
• Serve as a liaison to community organizations, referral sources, and stakeholders, and support outreach, presentations, and public relations efforts.
• Compile, analyze, and report operational and clinical data to support program evaluation, compliance monitoring, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Stay current on industry best practices and participate in professional development and committee work as assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Social Work, Counseling, or a related behavioral health field required.
• Minimum of 100 hours of documented clinical training in counseling theory and practice.
• Current certification/licensure as a substance abuse counselor in the state of employment (or eligibility required).
• 5–7 years of progressive experience in the substance use treatment field.
• Minimum of 2 years of supervisory experience.
• Experience within relevant treatment settings (e.g., residential, outpatient, corrections, or youth services).

Skills & Competencies

• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Advanced knowledge of counseling techniques, treatment planning, and case management.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and conflict resolution skills.
• Ability to analyze data, ensure compliance, and implement corrective action plans.
• Strong organizational and decision-making abilities.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to communicate effectively with clients, staff, and stakeholders.
• Ability to document and review records accurately.
• Ability to operate standard office equipment, including computers and phones.

Benefits at Gateway Foundation

• Health and Wellness: Medical, dental, and vision insurance for employees and dependents; Employee wellness program; Employee assistance programs.
• Financial Wellbeing: 403(b) Retirement Plan with 3% employer match; Short-term and Long-term Disability and Life and AD&D Insurance; Flexible Spending Accounts for medical and dependent care; Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF).
• Flexibility and Time Off: 18 paid time off days per year; 9 paid company holidays; Work-life-balance.
• Personal Development: Training & Development Programs; Tuition Reimbursement; eLearning access to online courses that provide CEU’s and job-related training; Clinical Supervision.