Recovery Shelter Program Director

Champlain Valley Office of Economic Opportunity • Burlington, VT

35d

About The Position

The Recovery Shelter Program Director (RSPD) plays a critical leadership role in operating and overseeing a 12–14 bed recovery-oriented shelter for individuals experiencing homelessness who are seeking a sober and supportive environment while they expand recovery efforts. The shelter integrates housing case management with substance use recovery support and mental health services in a trauma-informed, client-centered environment. The RSPD will be responsible for the comprehensive planning, implementation, daily operation, and evaluation of the Recovery Shelter Program. This includes ensuring 24/7 shelter coverage, supporting staff, coordinating recovery-oriented care, and developing strong partnerships with housing providers, behavioral health agencies, employment services and community resources. The RSPD will also ensure that the program aligns with CVOEO’s mission, funding requirements, and best practices in homelessness services, recovery, and integrated health, housing and social care. This position includes program leadership, staff supervision, grant and budget management, and direct service engagement as needed, and reports to the Emergency Services Director.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Human Services, Counseling, Public Administration, or related field (Master’s preferred) plus a minimum of two years of experience in program management, with at least two years in homeless services, recovery housing, or behavioral health. Equivalent education/experience considered.
• Demonstrated experience in program leadership and five-seven years of experience in supervision of staff, fiscal management, grant writing and administration.
• Commitment to valuing diversity and contributing to an inclusive working and learning environment
• Knowledge of homelessness, recovery, housing resources, and best practices in integrated care (e.g., trauma-informed care, recovery-oriented systems of care, harm reduction).
• Familiarity with federal, state, and local funding sources for homeless and recovery programs (e.g., HUD, ESG, state housing initiatives, SUD treatment funding).
• Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills, including report writing and presentations; bilingual abilities are a plus.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and oversee all operations of the 24/7 Recovery Shelter Program.
• Ensure the program integrates housing-focused case management with recovery support and mental health services.
• Establish and maintain program goals, objectives, and performance measures, regularly evaluating effectiveness and outcomes.
• Supervise case managers and shelter staff, ensuring consistent delivery of high-quality housing and recovery-oriented services.
• Recruit, supervise, train, and evaluate shelter staff and volunteers.
• Provide professional development, coaching, and mentoring to enhance staff skills in recovery-oriented practices, trauma-informed care, and de-escalation.
• Oversee delivery of comprehensive, client-centered shelter services, emphasizing recovery, housing stability, and wellness.
• Ensure shelter policies uphold sobriety requirements while supporting relapse prevention and recovery pathways.
• Ensure accurate and timely collection, entry, and reporting of guest data in compliance with funder and agency standards (e.g., HMIS).
• Prepare and submit regular programmatic and fiscal reports to funders, agency leadership, and stakeholders.

Benefits

• We offer a great working environment and an excellent benefit package including medical, dental and vision insurance, paid holidays, generous paid time off, a retirement plan and discounted gym membership.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director
• Number of Employees: 101-250 employees