The Manager of the Mental Health Clinic plays a critical role in expanding access to high-quality mental health care in underserved communities. By leading the clinic’s launch, guiding daily operations, and ensuring trauma-informed, culturally responsive practices, this role directly impacts client outcomes and community well-being. The manager ensures that services are not only clinically effective but also sustainable, compliant, and aligned with CARE Center NJ’s mission. Their leadership creates a foundation for healing, dignity, and hope for individuals and families facing mental health challenges.

The Program Manager’s responsibilities are distributed across several key areas:

Clinic Launch & Strategic Planning 

• Lead the launch of clinic operations, including strategic planning, workflow design, vendor coordination, and physical setup.
• Recruit and onboard a skilled, diverse team, ensuring alignment with the clinic’s mission and delivery of trauma-informed care.
• Secure and maintain all necessary credentials, including licensing, accreditation, and compliance with legal and ethical standards.
• Develop and oversee client intake, care coordination, and crisis response systems that ensure appropriate, timely, and safe service delivery.
• Implement quality assurance measures to monitor clinical performance, client satisfaction, and continuous improvement.
• Cultivate referral and community partnerships to expand access, integrate services, and ensure long-term client support.

Leadership & Operations

• Manage daily clinic operations, ensuring timely, trauma-informed, and high-quality care.
• Lead and support a mission-aligned team through effective supervision, staffing, and resource coordination.
• Foster a collaborative, culturally responsive clinic culture with clear communication.
• Oversee EHR implementation and technology systems to support compliance and efficiency.

Budget Development & Financial Oversight 

•       Develop and manage clinic budgets in partnership with leadership and finance.
•       Monitor spending, ensure compliance with fiscal policies, and track variances.
•       Oversee vendor contracts, procurement, and invoice approvals.
•       Provide accurate financial reports to support planning, grants, and board updates.
•       Identify cost-saving strategies and forecast financial needs for clinic growth.
•       Ensure adherence to funding guidelines and maintain audit-ready financial controls.

Program & Community Development

• Develop partnerships with local organizations to expand access and reduce stigma.
• Design mental health programs rooted in community needs and impact data.
• Represent the clinic in public forums, coalitions, and educational events.

Compliance & Workforce Support 

• Ensure adherence to HIPAA, OSHA, and other regulatory requirements.
• Promote staff development, well-being, and retention through coaching and training.
• Implement quality assurance measures and maintain risk mitigation systems.

Sustainability & Impact – Success Standard 

• Cultivate diverse funding sources and pursue innovative financial models to ensure long-term sustainability.
• Support grant writing, donor engagement, and strategic planning to align resources with clinic goals.
• Use data and feedback systems to evaluate program impact, guide decision-making, and strengthen client-centered services.
• Develop clear, compelling impact reports and dashboards to communicate outcomes to funders and stakeholders.  

Minimum Requirements:

•      Master’s degree in Social Work, Counseling, Psychology, or related field; licensure required (LCSW, LPC, LMFT)
• Minimum 5 years’ experience in behavioral health or clinical program leadership   
• Proven track record in launching or managing community-based mental health services           
• Experience in grant-funded program management and reporting                                   
• Demonstrated success in staff supervision, operations, and strategic planning 

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, and Other Characteristics:

• Strong leadership, team development, and interpersonal skills                                                                                                         
• Proficient in budgeting, financial tracking, and vendor oversight.
• Understanding of crisis response, case management, and care coordination.
• Excellent written and verbal communication                                                                       
• Knowledge of mental health regulations and compliance standards                                 
• Experience with EHR systems and clinic operations                                                           
• Familiarity with Medicaid/insurance billing and behavioral health funding                       
• Strong critical thinking and problem-solving abilities                                               
• Cultural competence and ability to work with diverse populations                            
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and basic data reporting tools 

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bilingual (Spanish or other language common in northern NJ communities) 
• Experience starting new programs or facilities in the health or nonprofit sector         
• Familiarity with integrated care models and wraparound services                                   
• Background in nonprofit or mission-driven organizations                                      
• Experience with community outreach and partnership development

AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT (ADA)

• In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the CARE Center of New Jersey is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities.

• If you require an accommodation during the interview process and/or to perform the essential functions of your job, please notify the Human Resources Department as soon as possible.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY (EEO)

• The CARE Center of New Jersey is an equal opportunity employer.

WHAT WE OFFER

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 403b retirement plan with company match 
• Company paid basic life insurance and personal accidental insurance
• Paid time off
• A host of fringe benefits
• A fun and welcoming work environment