Program Director

Full-Time, On-Site

Location: 3205 N Twyman Rd, Independence, MO 64058

Annual Salary: $80,000 to $90,000, depending on experience

Looking for a leadership role where you can make a real impact? Embark Independence is hiring a Program Director to lead a residential program serving adolescents. In this role, you’ll coach and develop frontline leaders, partner with families and clinicians, and ensure a safe, consistent, and well-run structured environment where both teens and staff can grow and succeed.

Responsibilities

• Partner with the Operations Director and leadership team to guide daily operations and program performance
• Supervise, coach, and develop residential leaders, including team supervisors and house managers
• Design and deliver ongoing training for frontline leaders, building consistency and accountability across shifts
• Create and maintain a structured leadership training program to strengthen team effectiveness
• Collaborate with families, clinicians, and internal teams to support a consistent residential experience
• Ensure compliance with state licensing, accreditation, and safety standards
• Manage staffing coverage, schedules, budgets, and program metrics
• Lead crisis response and operational risk management, participating in on-call coverage as needed
  
  
  

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Social Work, Education, or related field
• At least 3 years of leadership experience in residential treatment, behavioral health, or similar setting
• Strong understanding of adolescent development and trauma-informed care
• Proven ability to lead and develop teams with accountability and consistency
• Clear communication, sound judgment, and strong organizational skills
• Proven ability to plan, implement, and adjust in a fast-paced residential environment
• Valid Missouri driver’s license
• CPR/First Aid and CPI certification (or ability to obtain)
  
  
  

Benefits

• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance – Multiple plan options including PPO and HDHPs with HSA eligibility and company contributions.
• Paid Parental Leave – Up to 6 weeks fully paid for exempt employees
• Life & Disability Coverage – Company-paid life, AD&D, and long-term disability; voluntary life and optional short-term disability available.
• 401(k) with Company Match – Retirement savings with matching contributions after eligibility period.
• PTO & Holidays – Competitive PTO accrual plans and paid holidays throughout the year.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – Free, confidential support for life’s challenges.
  
  
  

Embark is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. We are committed to enriching the therapeutic and healing experience we offer through the diversity of our employees and community. We actively seek to recruit and support a broadly diverse staff who contribute to our excellence, diversity of viewpoints and experiences, and relevance in a global society.

Embark does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable laws. Accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities.

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