Community Based Program Specialist – Behavioral Health (Tribal)

State of Nebraska•Lincoln, NE

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Behavioral Health, is seeking a personable and organized professional to support community-based behavioral health services in partnership with the Omaha Tribe of Nebraska, Santee Sioux Nation, Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska, and Ponca Tribe of Nebraska. The position combines culturally responsive relationship-building with contract administration, program monitoring, and technical assistance. The role requires listening, learning, and building trust while respecting each Tribal Nation’s sovereignty, distinct laws, traditions, and priorities. Limited travel within Nebraska is required.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree, or equivalent coursework or training, in public administration, social or behavioral sciences, healthcare, human services, or another program-related field.
Professional experience working in a human/social service or healthcare agency with responsibility for planning or evaluating services, programs, or operational policies and practices may substitute for the education requirement.
Valid driver’s license.
Knowledge of contract administration, budgeting, program monitoring, and compliance.
Knowledge of audit and records-review practices, including reviewing supporting documentation, identifying discrepancies, and documenting findings.
Knowledge of cultural responsiveness and the importance of recognizing the distinct laws, practices, and priorities of each Tribal Nation.
Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills, including listening, establishing trust, and following through on commitments.
Clear, respectful written and verbal communication skills.
Attention to detail in reviewing contracts, billings, budgets, and audit records.
Organization, documentation, time-management, and meeting-facilitation skills.
Analytical thinking and problem-solving skills to identify concerns and support appropriate corrective actions.
Ability to approach partnerships with cultural sensitivity, curiosity, professionalism, and an open mindset.
Ability to learn and explain program requirements while respecting each Tribe’s sovereignty and distinct circumstances.
Ability to balance supportive partner relationships with contract-monitoring and accountability responsibilities.
Ability to manage multiple contracts, deadlines, and priorities with appropriate guidance.
Ability to work independently, seek clarification when needed, and take initiative during periods of lower activity.
Ability to build consistent, dependable partnerships through ongoing communication and follow-through.

Nice To Haves

One or more years of experience in human services, behavioral health services, public health, public administration, healthcare administration, or a related field.
Experience managing contracts or grants, monitoring budgets, reviewing billings, or conducting audits.
Experience working collaboratively with Tribal Nations, Native-serving organizations, or culturally diverse communities.
Knowledge of, or interest in learning about, Nebraska’s public behavioral health services network.
Understanding of Nebraska contracts and grants management.
Demonstrated cultural awareness and respect for Tribal sovereignty.

Responsibilities

Plan, coordinate, and evaluate community-based behavioral health program activities.
Build and maintain respectful working relationships with Tribal Nations, Native-serving organizations, DHHS Tribal Liaisons, and other partners, recognizing each Tribe’s sovereignty and distinct laws, practices, and priorities.
Provide technical assistance to tribal staff and leaders, including guidance on program requirements and policy clarifications.
Manage tribal behavioral health contracts, Rural Health Transformation Program contracts, and other assigned contracts; monitor deliverables, timelines, compliance, and contractor performance.
Facilitate monthly meetings with tribal partners to review contract activities, address questions and concerns, and coordinate follow-up.
Monitor budgets, review monthly billings and supporting documentation, and resolve discrepancies.
Conduct annual audits and other reviews as directed, document findings, and track corrective actions.
Support policy development and compliance with applicable program, regulatory, and contractual requirements.
Maintain accurate and organized contract files, meeting records, audit documentation, and program reports.
Manage priorities independently, prepare for deadlines, improve processes, expand program knowledge, and follow up with partners.
Participate in limited travel within Nebraska.