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Residential Program Director Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

... Residential Facility serving high-acuity clients experiencing acute mental health conditions ... Position: Program Director Type: Salary, Full-Time, Exempt Compensation: Up to $130k per year

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CADC Program Director

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$70K - $75K/yr

Instead, you will function in a proxy Program Director capacity, working with various detox, residential, PHP, and IOP treatment centers to support their day-to-day operational, staffing, and program ...

Provide individual and group supervision, coaching, training, and support to direct care staff ... Monitor program performance, contract requirements, and required data tracking and reporting

Director of Program Services Job Duties: As part of the Director of Program Services Team you will ... Minimum of 2 years of experience working in a Community Care Licensed community, Crisis Residential ...

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Residential Program Director information

See California salary details

$34K

$70.9K

$112.5K

How much do residential program director jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for residential program director in California is $70,859.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,300.00 and $88,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a residential program director?

A Residential Program Director is a professional responsible for overseeing the daily operations and management of residential programs, such as group homes, treatment centers, or assisted living facilities. They ensure that all residents receive appropriate care and support, supervise staff, manage budgets, and maintain compliance with regulatory standards. Their role often includes developing program policies, coordinating services, and engaging with families and community partners to provide a safe and supportive living environment. Residential Program Directors play a key leadership role in ensuring that programs meet their mission and the needs of the people they serve.

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

To thrive as a Residential Program Director, you need experience in program management, a background in social work or human services, and often a relevant degree or licensure. Familiarity with case management software, regulatory compliance systems, and budgeting tools is typically required. Strong leadership, problem-solving abilities, and excellent communication skills help in managing staff and addressing residents’ needs effectively. These competencies ensure programs run smoothly, meet regulatory standards, and foster a supportive environment for both staff and residents.

What are some common challenges faced by residential program directors, and how can applicants prepare to address them?

Residential Program Directors often navigate challenges such as balancing administrative duties with direct staff support, managing crisis situations, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. Effective communication and strong organizational skills are essential to handle staff scheduling, resident needs, and reporting requirements. Applicants can prepare by gaining experience in team leadership, learning regulatory guidelines relevant to residential care, and developing strategies for conflict resolution and stress management.

What is the difference between Residential Program Director vs Residential Case Manager?

AspectResidential Program DirectorResidential Case Manager
CredentialsRelevant degrees (e.g., social work, psychology), certifications in program managementRelevant degrees, certifications in case management or social work
Work EnvironmentOversees multiple programs, manages staff, strategic planningDirect client interaction, case planning, support services
Employer & Industry UsageFound in residential treatment centers, group homes, community programsCommon in similar settings, focusing on individual client needs

The Residential Program Director typically manages entire programs and staff, focusing on operational oversight, while the Residential Case Manager works directly with clients to develop and implement care plans. Both roles require relevant credentials and are integral to residential care settings, but differ mainly in scope and responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Residential Program jobs in California?

The most popular types of Residential Program jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Residential Program Director jobs?

Cities in California with the most Residential Program Director job openings:

Infographic showing various Residential Program Director job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,859 per year, or $34.1 per hour.

Director of Program Services

Crestwood Behavioral Health

Sacramento, CA • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Crestwood Behavioral Health rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 48 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

192nd of 898 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Title: Director of Program Services

Job Duties: As part of the Director of Program Services Team you will work with a collaborative, dedicated and skilled multi-disciplinary group of individuals to support compliance and established policies and procedures, regulations, and accreditation standards for the overall programs, while meeting all the respective reporting requirements.

Full-Time Position Hybrid with 75% Travel. Will need to visit campuses throughout California and will at times work remotely. 

Schedule: Full-Time

Qualifications: 

  • A minimum of 5 years of experience in a supervisory role in an inpatient mental health setting.
  • Minimum of 2 years of experience working in a Community Care Licensed community, Crisis Residential or Crisis Stabilization program required.
  • BA/BS in psychology, social work, or related field. 
  • MA/MS, CPRP, and/or Community Care Licensing Administrator's license preferred.
  • Demonstrate expertise in psychosocial rehabilitation principles and practices, recovery-based principles and practices, evidence-based practices, and current best and promising practices.
  • Demonstrate knowledge with applicable regulatory requirements and accreditation standards.

Crestwood Offers Comprehensive Benefits Packages to Full-Time Employees Including:

  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage
  • Life Insurance
  • Vacation
  • Paid Sick Leave
  • Sick Leave Buy Back
  • 401(k) Retirement
  • Scholarship Program
  • Qualifying Supervision for BBS Associates
  • Competitive Pay
  • Paid Holidays
  • Service Awards
  • Jury Duty Pay

What Crestwood Behavioral Health employees say

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Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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About Crestwood Behavioral Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Crestwood Behavioral Health, Inc., based in Sacramento, CA, US, is a recognized leader in the field of Behavioral Health. The company’s main offering includes a broad spectrum of services for adults with mental health needs, including campus-based services, day treatment programs, and community integration services. Established more than 50 years ago, Crestwood has a rich history grounded in a relentless pursuit of optimism, bravery, and an unwavering commitment to creating recovery-focused programs that uphold the rights and dignity of individuals living with mental health issues. Their mission is to provide a continuum of services that empower individuals living with mental health issues to realize recovery.

Industry

Offices of mental health practitioners

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Sacramento, CA, US

Year founded

1968

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