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Behavioral Health Operations Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

Provides strategic, operational, and administrative leadership for the Behavioral Health Department * Provides leadership and direction for all Behavioral Health programs and services. * Directly ...

Director of Behavioral Health

Boston, MA ยท On-site

$140K - $175K/yr

Provides strategic, operational, and administrative leadership for the Behavioral Health Department * Provides leadership and direction for all Behavioral Health programs and services. * Directly ...

Director of Behavioral Health

Boston, MA ยท On-site

$140K - $175K/yr

The Director of Behavioral Health provides strategic, operational, administrative, and clinical leadership for Fenway Health's Behavioral Health Department, a multidisciplinary department of more ...

Director of Behavioral Health

Boston, MA ยท On-site

$150 - $200/hr

Provides strategic, operational, and administrative leadership for the Behavioral Health Department * Provides leadership and direction for all Behavioral Health programs and services. * Directly ...

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Behavioral Health Operations information

See Boston, MA salary details

$10

$26

$53

How much do behavioral health operations jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for behavioral health operations in Boston, MA is $26.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.73 and $30.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is behavioral health operations?

Behavioral health operations refer to the management and coordination of services, personnel, and resources within organizations that provide mental health and substance use treatment. This role involves overseeing workflows, ensuring regulatory compliance, optimizing patient care delivery, and improving operational efficiency. Professionals in behavioral health operations may also manage budgets, staff training, and quality improvement initiatives to support the overall mission of behavioral health organizations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in behavioral health operations?

To thrive in Behavioral Health Operations, you need a solid understanding of healthcare administration, behavioral health regulations, and experience in program management, often supported by a degree in healthcare administration, public health, or a related field. Familiarity with electronic health records (EHR) systems, data analytics tools, and compliance management software is typically required. Strong leadership, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills enable success in coordinating teams and ensuring quality care. These competencies are crucial for optimizing operational efficiency, regulatory compliance, and positive outcomes for patients and staff.

What are some common challenges faced in behavioral health operations, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Behavioral Health Operations often encounter challenges such as coordinating care across multidisciplinary teams, maintaining compliance with changing healthcare regulations, and optimizing workflow efficiency in fast-paced environments. Addressing these challenges requires strong organizational skills, adaptability, and clear communication with clinical staff, administrators, and external partners. Leveraging technology and standardized processes can help streamline operations, while ongoing training ensures teams remain compliant and effective in delivering quality behavioral health services.

What is the difference between Behavioral Health Operations vs Behavioral Health Clinician?

AspectBehavioral Health OperationsBehavioral Health Clinician
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree or related experience; certifications varyRequires a license (e.g., LCSW, LPC, LMFT) and relevant clinical certifications
Work EnvironmentAdministrative settings, clinics, hospitals, or community organizationsDirect patient care in clinics, hospitals, or outpatient settings
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in healthcare organizations managing programs and operationsUsed by licensed professionals providing therapy and assessments
Search & Comparison IntentFocuses on management, coordination, and operational rolesFocuses on clinical treatment and patient interaction

Behavioral Health Operations roles primarily involve managing programs, coordinating services, and overseeing administrative functions within behavioral health organizations. In contrast, Behavioral Health Clinicians provide direct patient care, including therapy and assessments. Both roles are essential but differ significantly in responsibilities, credentials, and work environment.

What job categories do people searching Behavioral Health Operations jobs in Boston, MA look for?

The top searched job categories for Behavioral Health Operations jobs in Boston, MA are:

What cities near Boston, MA are hiring for Behavioral Health Operations jobs?

Cities near Boston, MA with the most Behavioral Health Operations job openings:

Infographic showing various Behavioral Health Operations job openings in Boston, MA as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, and 23% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $54,580 per year, or $26.2 per hour.

Lead Behavioral Health Specialist - Behavioral Health

Dimock

Boston, MA โ€ข On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Lead Behavioral Health Specialist - Behavioral HealthApproved Salary: $22-$25/hrSchedule: Full-time; onsite in Roxbury, MA; may include evenings, weekends and holidaysReports To: Program DirectorPosition Type: Non-SupervisoryThe Dimock Center seeks an experienced, recovery-oriented professional who brings strong judgment, communication skills, and a commitment to supporting residents and colleagues. As a Lead Behavioral Health Specialist, you will serve as a senior resource to Recovery Specialists and other direct-care staff, helping maintain consistent residential operations, supporting recovery programming, mentoring staff, and promoting a safe, respectful, person-centered environment. This is a non-supervisory leadership role focused on modeling, mentoring, communication, and operational support.The Dimock Center is a federally qualified community health center dedicated to healing and uplifting individuals, families, and communities. We aim to redefine healthy communities by ensuring equitable access to comprehensive healthcare and education while fostering a culture of respect, excellence, and inclusion.Our Behavioral Health Services provide residential and outpatient treatment for individuals with mental illness, developmental disabilities, or substance use disorders-programs that often save lives.Summary/ObjectiveThe Lead Behavioral Health Specialist is an experienced residential recovery professional who provides direct recovery-oriented support to residents while serving as a senior resource to the Behavioral Health Specialist team. You will support daily residential operations, recovery programming, admissions, orientations, discharges, safety practices, and resident engagement. In the absence of the Behavioral Health Specialist Supervisor, you may assume designated operational and coverage responsibilities, including assisting with schedules, coordinating shift coverage, communicating staffing needs, and supporting day-to-day team operations. The Lead Behavioral Health Specialist does not have formal supervisory authority and refers personnel matters to the appropriate supervisor.Essential FunctionsMaintain a safe, respectful, structured, and recovery-oriented residential environment.Provide direct recovery-oriented support to residents and promote personal responsibility and independence.Serve as a senior resource and role model for Recovery Specialists and other direct-care staff.Support daily program operations, including admissions, orientations, transitions, and discharge processes.Assist with staff orientation, peer mentoring, and consistent implementation of program practices.Monitor resident well-being and communicate clinical, behavioral, safety, or other concerns to appropriate staff.Use therapeutic communication and de-escalation techniques to manage stressful encounters and reinforce program expectations.Conduct safety checks and property searches in accordance with program guidelines.Assist residents with daily needs while promoting independence and engagement in recovery.Maintain accurate documentation and support administrative processes.Help create a welcoming, inclusive, and recovery-oriented community environment.In the absence of the Behavioral Health Specialist Supervisor, assist with designated scheduling and shift coverage responsibilities.Communicate staffing needs, operational concerns, and other issues to appropriate leadership.Support continuity of residential services and day-to-day functioning of the Behavioral Health Specialist team.Collaborate effectively with clinical and residential staff to support resident care and program operations.Maintain professional boundaries and confidentiality in all interactions.Perform other duties consistent with the position and needs of the residential program.CompetenciesKnowledge of substance use disorders, co-occurring disorders, and the needs of vulnerable populations.Knowledge of trauma-informed care and recovery-oriented practices.Nonjudgmental, compassionate, and person-centered approach.Strong communication and writing skills.Ability to handle stressful encounters and effectively de-escalate behaviors.Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.Ability to provide leadership through experience, modeling, mentoring, communication, and support.Ability to work collaboratively with residents, peers, clinical staff, and program leadership.Ability to maintain professionalism, sound judgment, confidentiality, and appropriate boundaries.Work EnvironmentResidential behavioral health and recovery setting. Ability to respond effectively to behavioral and operational situations within the residential environment. Must have a valid driver's license, reliable transportation, and willingness to transport clients in a personal vehicle. Proof of automobile insurance meeting minimum coverage requirements of $100,000/$300,000 is required.Physical DemandsFrequent standing, sitting, walking, and lifting throughout the workday. Ability to lift and carry up to 20 pounds.Required QualificationsHigh school diploma or GED required.Minimum of three years of experience working in a recovery setting required.Experience working with individuals with co-occurring disorders required.Experience providing supervision or staff leadership preferred.Bachelor's degree in a related field or equivalent experience/training preferred.Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LADC) credential preferred.CPR and First Aid certification required within 90 days of hire.Important NoteThis is a non-supervisory lead position. The Lead Behavioral Health Specialist does not have authority to hire, terminate, formally discipline, conduct employee performance evaluations, approve time off, or otherwise exercise formal supervisory authority. Personnel concerns are referred to the appropriate supervisor.EEO StatementThe Dimock Center values diversity and is committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of age, color, disability, ethnicity, marital status, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other legally protected status.
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