1

Program Director Substance Abuse Jobs in Worcester, MA

Program Director

Marlborough, MA · On-site

$54K - $57K/yr

... Program Director is responsible for: * Overseeing the strategic and day-to-day operations of the ... Minimum of three years of experience in a substance abuse, mental health, or other related ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Program Director Substance Abuse information

See Worcester, MA salary details

$39.9K

$93.6K

$145.2K

How much do program director substance abuse jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for program director substance abuse in Worcester, MA is $93,637.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,900.00 and $118,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a program director substance abuse?

A Program Director for Substance Abuse oversees the planning, implementation, and management of substance abuse treatment programs. They ensure compliance with regulations, manage staff, develop policies, and coordinate resources to support individuals in recovery. Their role includes budgeting, performance evaluation, and improving program effectiveness. They often work in rehabilitation centers, healthcare facilities, or community organizations to provide comprehensive addiction treatment services.

What are some common challenges faced by program directors in substance abuse treatment settings?

Program Directors in substance abuse treatment often face challenges balancing regulatory compliance, managing diverse teams, and ensuring high-quality client care. They may encounter resource limitations, staff burnout, or evolving treatment protocols that require ongoing adaptation and problem-solving. Collaborating effectively with clinical staff, administrative personnel, external agencies, and clients’ families is essential to address complex needs and support recovery. Staying organized and maintaining a client-centered focus helps directors navigate these challenges and drive program success.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a program director substance abuse?

To thrive as a Program Director Substance Abuse, you need a solid background in behavioral health, team leadership, program management, and typically a master's degree in counseling, social work, psychology, or a related field. Familiarity with electronic health record systems, state licensure (such as LCSW, LPC, or CADC), and regulatory compliance tools is often required. Strong communication, problem-solving, and motivational skills set standout directors apart by aiding staff development and client engagement. These qualifications ensure effective oversight of treatment programs, regulatory compliance, and positive client outcomes in a complex healthcare environment.

What are popular job titles related to Program Director Substance Abuse jobs in Worcester, MA?

For Program Director Substance Abuse jobs in Worcester, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Program Director Substance Abuse jobs in Worcester, MA look for?

The top searched job categories for Program Director Substance Abuse jobs in Worcester, MA are:

What cities near Worcester, MA are hiring for Program Director Substance Abuse jobs?

Cities near Worcester, MA with the most Program Director Substance Abuse job openings:

Infographic showing various Program Director Substance Abuse job openings in Worcester, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $93,637 per year, or $45 per hour.

Substance Abuse Counselor- Men's RRS

Veterans Inc.

Worcester, MA • On-site

$22.25 - $30/hr

Per diem

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

Are you motivated by knowing you've made a difference in someone's life and in our community? Do you have a passion for helping those in substance abuse recovery? If you answered yes, then you may have what it takes to be part of the Veterans Inc. team!

We provide client-centered care and recovery-oriented treatment within a therapeutic environment. We are looking for innovative staff for our licensed Men's Residential Rehabilitation Services (RRS) Program, which is open to both veterans and the community.

We are looking for a goal oriented, skilled, and hardworking professional to fill the role of Substance Abuse Counselor. The primary goal of this position is to provide support and substance abuse counseling services to substance abuse treatment program patients to help ensure that the major objectives of their treatment are attained. This position works as a member of a multidisciplinary team to provide clients with necessary program information, and is responsible for providing clients with direct individual and group counseling, education, clinical or case management services to assist clients with treatment plans and goals.

We are looking for Per Diem employees.
WHAT YOU'LL BE RESPONSIBLE FOR DAY TO DAY:

  • Performs intake, evaluation, orientation, admissions, treatment planning, counseling, documentation, discharge planning and referral of substance abusing clients. Assesses all new intakes to determine presence and extent of substance abuse issues and mental health illness; completes evaluation report.
  • Assists client through individual, group, substance use or mental health use disorder counseling.
  • Develops and documents individualized treatment plans that address the needs of substance abuse client population. Collects statistics as required for reports; prepares required reports and paperwork and maintains audit ready client files.
  • Refers clients to appropriate treatment modality based on assessment. Recommends treatment plans for clients to program manager and criminal justice officials.
  • Develops and facilitates process groups and educational programs.
  • Ensures compliance with legal issues including but not limited to client confidentiality and risk management; ensures compliance with federal, state, and local regulations.
  • Attends and participates in all meetings as required.
  • Performs special projects and other duties as assigned.

WHAT YOU MUST HAVE:

  • Minimum of Bachelor's degree in Human Services, Social Work, Sociology, or related field from an accredited institution. Master's degree in related field highly preferred.
  • Certification in alcohol and drug counseling, LADC I or II preferred.
  • Experience or education in substance abuse treatment and mental health disorders required. 2+ years of experience working in substance abuse treatment/mental health disorders is preferred.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of military culture, experience in working with veteran population and an understanding of veterans-related needs and issues preferred.
  • Must be able to successfully pass a CORI/Background records check.
  • Compliance with Veterans Inc. COVID-19 Vaccination Policy. Religious and Medical Exemptions are considered

WHAT WE CAN OFFER YOU:

Comprehensive Benefits Package for FT employees includes:

  • BCBS Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • Employer Paid Short and Long-Term Disability and Life Insurance.
  • $2500 Medical Opt-Out program if you have medical coverage through another source.
  • Retirement Plan (403B) with a $2000 Match
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Tuition Reimbursement Program
  • Paid Parental Leave

For more information, or to apply now; visit our website. Please do not mail, email, or fax your cover letter/resume as we are limited to only accepting completed applications through our career page. Mailed, emailed, or faxed cover letter, resume, and applications will not be reviewed.

Veterans Inc. is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, gender identity or protected Veteran status. If you need assistance completing an application please contact careers1@veteransinc.org.

We do not accept unsolicited resumes from agencies. Agencies are requested not to contact Veterans Inc. with recruiting inquiries.