Program Director- 3.1 Substance Abuse Treatment
Job Title: Program Director
Location: Survival House, Hagerstown, Maryland
Facility Type: New 3.1 Substance Abuse Treatment Center
Expected Opening Date: February 2026
www.survivalhousemd.com
Opportunity
We are opening a brand-new ASAM 3.1 Clinically Managed Residential Substance Use Treatment Facility, and we are seeking an experienced Program Director to build, launch, and lead the program from the ground up.
This role is responsible for setting up the entire facility for successful opening, including:
Developing all policies and procedures
Ensuring full COMAR 10.63 compliance
Preparing for state licensing inspections
Hiring and training staff
Creating operational systems
Establishing clinical and case management structure
Coordinating with outside providers (IOP, MAT, mental health)
Leading the program once residents arrive
This is a hands-on leadership role for someone who understands residential SUD treatment and is confident in building a program from scratch.
Key Responsibilities
Program Development & Facility Launch
Create and implement all required policies, procedures, manuals, and operational systems for a new 3.1 program
Prepare the facility for state licensing and regulatory inspections
Build the program structure, including daily schedules, house rules, documentation workflows, staffing patterns, and emergency plans
Establish relationships with referral sources, MAT clinics, courts, and community partners
Ensure compliance with COMAR 10.63, ASAM standards, and ethical guidelines
Leadership & Staff Management
Recruit, hire, and onboard staff such as support staff, CPRS, case managers, and house managers
Train all employees on policies, documentation expectations, crisis response, safety, and client engagement
Provide ongoing supervision, coaching, scheduling, and performance management
Lead team meetings and maintain a positive, recovery-focused culture
Compliance & Quality Assurance
Maintain complete compliance with Maryland regulations, licensing requirements, and internal standards
Develop systems for incident reporting, grievances, safety checks, and chart audits
Ensure accurate and timely documentation across all departments
Oversee client files, treatment plans, intakes, and discharges
Prepare the program for state audits and continuous quality improvement (CQI)
Client Care Oversight
Ensure clients receive high-quality recovery support, case management, and structured residential services
Work collaboratively with external providers (IOP, MAT, mental health clinicians)
Support crisis management, conflict resolution, and resident concerns
Ensure the program maintains a safe, structured, and therapeutic living environment
Operations & Administrative Oversight
Oversee daily facility operations, staffing coverage, and house procedures
Maintain compliance logs (fire drills, safety checks, UAs, transportation records, etc.)
Assist with budget planning, supply ordering, and resource allocation
Manage bed availability, intake flow, and communication with referral partners
Required Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Health, Human Services, Social Work, Psychology, or related field (Master’s preferred)
Minimum 3–5 years of experience in substance use treatment, residential services, or behavioral health leadership
Strong knowledge of COMAR 10.63, ASAM criteria, and Maryland licensing requirements
Proven experience in developing or managing a treatment or recovery program
Ability to lead teams, manage crises, and create structure in a new environment
Excellent communication, organization, and documentation skills
Preferred Qualifications
Licensed professional (LMSW, LGPC, LCPC, LCSW-C) or certified addiction counselor (CAC-AD/CSC-AD)
CPRS or experience supervising peer recovery staff
Experience opening a new treatment program or sober living environment
Familiarity with Medicaid billing and documentation standards
Work Environment
Full-time, on-site leadership role
Must be available for emergency calls and occasional off-hours needs
Fast-paced start-up environment requiring flexibility, creativity, and strong problem-solving
Compensation
Competitive salary based on experience
Benefits package available after initial startup period
Performance Bonus awarded upon successful program startup and opening
Application Process
If you are a passionate, motivated, and forward-thinking leader who is ready to make a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals overcoming substance use challenges, we encourage you to apply. Please submit your resume and a cover letter to the email below, highlighting your relevant experience and your vision for building a strong, effective, and client-centered treatment program from the ground up.
We look forward to the opportunity to meet with you, learn more about your vision and goals, and welcoming a dedicated Program Director who will help shape the future of our Survival House family.
In the subject line, please include:
Program Director – Your Full Name
Email: kevin@survivalrecovery.com
**Survival House is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to fostering an inclusive, supportive, and empowering workplace for all employees.**