HEALTH DISTRICT MANAGER

Anticipated starting salary: $71,027.01. This is a safety-sensitive position located in Pine Bluff, AR, serving the following counties: Arkansas, Jefferson, Lee, Monroe, Phillips, Prairie, and St. Francis. Frequent in-state and some out-of-state travel required; occasional work outside of standard business hours may be required.

About the Role

The Health District Manager is a key regional leadership position within the Arkansas Department of Health (ADH) responsible for providing technical assistance, monitoring program implementation, and promoting public health initiatives across a designated multi-county health district. This classification directs operations at local health units (LHUs), ensuring that agency programs are executed effectively and in alignment with state and federal guidelines.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical assistance and leadership to LHU administrators and staff to implement public health programs such as immunizations, maternal and child health, environmental health, infectious disease prevention, and emergency preparedness.
• Monitor program performance and public health outcomes across LHUs; analyze trends and identify areas for improvement.
• Ensure compliance with applicable state and federal regulations, agency policies, and quality assurance standards.
• Manage district budgets, staff allocations, contracts, and operational resources in collaboration with central office teams.
• Coordinate emergency response efforts within the district, including natural disasters, disease outbreaks, and public health threats.
• Serve as the primary liaison between the district and ADH central office leadership, elected officials, community partners, and the public.
• Promote community engagement, health education, and outreach initiatives that support population health goals.
• Supervise district-level staff and local health unit administrators; provide guidance, performance evaluation, and professional development opportunities.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in public health, health administration, environmental health, nursing, social work, life sciences, or a related field, plus three (3) years of experience in a public health, administrative, or program coordination setting.
• Valid Arkansas Driver’s License.
• Must carry a cell phone 24/7/365.
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office Programs, including Word, Excel, and Outlook.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s Degree in Public Health.
• Supervisory/leadership experience and program management experience.
• Knowledge of Arkansas public health laws, administrative rules, and federal funding guidelines.
• Experience with data-informed decision-making and using performance metrics to guide strategy.

Skills

• Operational planning, priority setting, and resource coordination.
• Core public health functions and programs, particularly as delivered through local health units.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, including the ability to effectively interact with staff, partners, and community members.
• Ability to assess challenges, identify root causes, and implement practical solutions in a timely manner.

Pay

Salary range: $71,027 - $105,120.