Program Manager

Join McAlister Institute, a 49-year beacon in San Diego's Recovery Community.

McAlister Institute is seeking an experienced and mission-driven Program Manager to lead and oversee our Kiva Residential Recovery Center. Reporting directly to the Chief Programs Officer, this leadership role is responsible for program operations, contract compliance, staff supervision, quality assurance, community outreach, and the delivery of high-quality substance use disorder (SUD) and co-occurring mental health services.

The ideal candidate is a strong leader with experience managing behavioral health programs in a residential setting, supervising clinical staff, ensuring contract compliance, and fostering a client-centered, trauma-informed treatment environment.

Benefits for YOU:

• 13 paid annual holidays, including your birthday; 12 paid vacation days, paid sick leave
• 403(b) Retirement Plan + up to 6% Employer Match
• Health Insurance available the first of the month following 30 days of employment – 85% of SHARP medical premiums paid by McAlister
• EAP for you and members of your household
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness eligibility

Key Responsibilities:

Operational Oversight

• Oversee daily program operations and ensure high-quality service delivery.
• Monitor client documentation and ensure compliance with County, State, DHCS, and agency standards.
• Develop and maintain service schedules, educational workshops, process groups, and behavioral health programming.
• Ensure timely incident reporting and follow-up.
• Maintain a safe, welcoming, and trauma-informed environment for clients and staff.
• Serve as the primary liaison between the program, corporate offices, community agencies, and referral partners.
• Average of 60 clients

Program Leadership & Contract Management

• Provide leadership consistent with McAlister Institute's mission, values, and goals.
• Manage program operations and ensure compliance with County contracts, Statements of Work, budgets, and performance objectives.
• Collaborate with executive leadership to monitor program budgets and fiscal performance.
• Participate in contract monitoring, site visits, audits, and quality assurance reviews.
• Develop and implement corrective action plans when program goals or contract requirements are not being met.
• Ensure all licenses, certifications, reports, and required documentation remain current and compliant.
• Conduct community outreach and presentations representing both the program and McAlister Institute.

Staff Leadership & Development

• Supervise a team of 30 counselors, senior staff, childcare staff, and other program personnel.
• Recruit, hire, onboard, train, mentor, and evaluate staff.
• Conduct regular supervision meetings and annual performance evaluations.
• Ensure staff maintain required certifications, trainings, and professional development plans.
• Promote a culture of accountability, wellness, professionalism, and continuous improvement.
• Ensure staff compliance with documentation, reporting, and funding requirements.

Community Engagement

• Build and maintain strong relationships with referral sources, community partners, and County stakeholders.
• Participate in grant-related activities, tours, presentations, and fundraising initiatives.
• Represent the organization professionally within the behavioral health community.