Program Director

Legal Services of Eastern Missouri Inc•St. Louis, MO

9d•$76,500 - $114,800•Hybrid

About The Position

Legal Services of Eastern Missouri, Inc. (LSEM) seeks a full-time Attorney Program Director for its Medicaid Defense Team in the Health and Welfare Program. This new program, funded by the City of St. Louis, will focus on City residents affected by HR1 (also called The One Big Beautiful Bill Act) and its changes to Medicaid eligibility. The City is also funding a parallel program at the Integrated Health Network, which will work with LSEM on HR1 implementation. The Program Director will supervise the City Grant Team, prepare grant reports for the funder, directly represent clients in individual cases, identify systemic trends in the Team’s caseload, and work on systems-based solutions. The role involves coordinating with the Integrated Health Network Team, engaging with public agencies and community coalitions, and advocating for clients in Medicaid matters, particularly state fair hearings and circuit court appeals. LSEM is a nonprofit law firm providing free legal assistance to people living with low income or low opportunity. It advances justice through legal representation, education, supportive services, systemic advocacy, impact litigation, and individual casework. The organization has provided civil legal assistance in 21 Missouri counties since 1956 and works with community agencies, task forces, coalitions, and volunteer lawyers. The position offers a salary range of $76,500–$114,800, with the specific salary determined by years of relevant experience. An in-person/remote hybrid work option is available. Applicants must submit a resume and cover letter; applications without a cover letter will not be considered. Applications will be considered until the position is filled.

Requirements

Juris Doctor (JD).
Admitted to practice in Missouri or eligible to be admitted.
Strong litigation and advocacy skills.
Ability to relate well to and work with low-income clients and collaborate with community stakeholders.
Excellent interpersonal skills and a strong ability to form collaborative partnerships.
Strong writing ability.
Knowledge of Microsoft Office and willingness to learn case management software.
Openness to creative and innovative ways of fulfilling the legal aid mission.

Nice To Haves

At least five years of experience as a practicing attorney is preferred.
Demonstrated commitment to public interest work or legal services for the poor is strongly preferred.
Previous experience or education in health or administrative law is preferred.
Previous supervision experience is preferred.

Responsibilities

Coordinate closely with the Integrated Health Network Team to develop a unified strategy for reaching City residents who need HR1-related assistance.
Supervise the Intake and Outreach Coordinator and three Healthcare Advocates, including conducting annual performance evaluations and regular case reviews.
Participate in regular meetings with the Integrated Health Network Team, the state Medicaid agency, and community advisory groups and state or national coalitions as needed.
Stay up to date on new policies and trends in HR1 implementation.
Advocate for clients in negotiations with the state Medicaid agency, with a focus on state fair hearings and circuit court appeals.
Perform grant reporting duties as needed.
Explore systems-based solutions to systemic issues identified through the Team’s work, including administrative advocacy, policy analysis, and potential litigation.
Directly represent clients in individual cases.
Identify systemic trends within the Team’s caseload.
Perform other duties as assigned.