Behavioral Health Program Specialist

To be considered for this position you must complete the state application and attach all required documents through the Montana State Careers site at  www.statecareers.mt.gov.

The Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) has a career opportunity within the Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities Division.

This role is responsible for developing, implementing, and overseeing behavioral health programs and initiatives aimed at reducing reliance on physical health systems, state hospitals, and local law enforcement, including the Crisis Diversion Grant program. Crisis Diversion Grants provide statutorily obligated funding through contracts awarded via Request for Proposal (RFP) to eligible county and federally recognized tribal governments to support the implementation of crisis intervention and jail diversion services. The Crisis Diversion Grant program supports Montana communities that are focusing on diverting individuals experiencing behavioral health crises from jail and the Montana State Hospital and enhancing system-level support.

This position is responsible for overseeing the Crisis Diversion Grant RFP and contracting process, the management of contracts and budgets, invoice processing, policy development, and ensuring compliance with Department, State, Federal, and other applicable regulations. The role will collaborate directly with county and tribal governments, local behavioral health and crisis coalitions, behavioral health care providers, and various statewide partners and stakeholders.

This role facilitates virtual and in-person meetings as needed to provide technical assistance, develop and review performance metrics to evaluate program effectiveness, support data-driven decisions to implement and improve crisis response and jail diversion services. Reviewing and synthesizing regular reporting and strategic policy revisions are essential aspects of the role, ensuring that programs align with national standards and effectively address the needs of underserved populations.

Why Join DPHHS

Our mission at DPHHS is serving Montanans in their communities to improve health, safety, well-being, and empower independence. By joining our department, you will have the opportunity to perform meaningful work in public service to our state and its residents.

The State of Montana's comprehensive benefits package includes healthcare coverage, retirement plans, paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays, work/life balance, and eligibility to participate in the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program. In addition, DPHHS is the largest state agency with a wide range of advancement opportunities whether you are joining the workforce or have several years of experience.

Qualifications for this Career Opportunity

• General knowledge of fiscal and program management principles.

• General knowledge of behavioral health service delivery and reimbursement systems.

• Knowledge of program development and quality improvement practices.

• Knowledge of federal and state laws related to Medicaid programs and contracts.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including public speaking.

• Meet minimum qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in human services, public health, behavioral health, or related fields.

  • Two years of professional experience in health care, public health, behavioral health, or general program management.

  • Other combinations of related education and experience may be considered on a case-by-case basis.

How to Apply

To be considered for a DPHHS position, submit the following required documents with your application on the State of Montana Careers website. When submitting the required documents, you must check the "relevant document" box to ensure your attachments are uploaded correctly to your application for this position.

• Cover Letter

• Resume

• References

Successful applicants will be subject to background checks relevant to the position and must pass reference checks before an offer will be extended. DPHHS is an equal opportunity employer. Women, minorities, and people with disabilities are encouraged to apply. For a copy of the full job description or if you need a reasonable accommodation in the application or hiring process, contact DPHHS Human Resources listed below.

Additional Information

This position may be eligible for partial telework within the state of Montana. Specific conditions will be provided by the supervisor and must adhere to state policy.

This position is open until filled with frequent screening of applicants.