Program Director - Psychiatric Medical Institute for Children

Job DetailsJob Location: Children Square Campus - Council Bluffs, IA 51503 

Program Director – Psychiatric Medical Institution for Children (PMIC)

Salary Range: $80,000+ (Based on Relevant Experience and Education)

Shift: 8:00-5:00 (Based on Program Need)

Location: Children's Square Campus - Council Bluffs, IA

About CSI

Our story begins in Omaha in 1892, when, due to epidemics, poverty and the difficulties of pioneer life, many children were left in need of parental care. CSI met the need in a revolutionary way – putting the well-being of children first and working to be a voice for the voiceless. We seek to champion children and families by providing the mental, emotional and physical spaces they need to feel empowered and to thrive.

The merger of Children's Square and the Child Saving Institute allows us to offer more than 275 years of combined experience. We provide diverse programs and services, help strengthen families and communities and offer a spectrum of support for the people we serve. Our team is committed to finding the right path and combination of services to meet each child and every family where they are.

Child Saving Institute (CSI) is looking for someone who has a mind full of wonder and a heart-filled desire to make a difference! We’re on a mission to champion what’s best for each child and family.

About the Role

Child Saving Institute is seeking a dedicated and experienced Program Director to lead our Psychiatric Medical Institution for Children (PMIC) program. This leadership position oversees daily operations, ensures high-quality care, and drives program growth while maintaining compliance with regulatory standards.

Reporting to the Vice President of Residential Care, the Program Director plays a critical role in shaping services that support youth with complex behavioral and mental health needs.

Key Responsibilities

Program Leadership & Operations

Oversee day-to-day operations of the PMIC program.
Ensure services are fully compliant with licensing, accreditation, and contractual requirements.
Maintain 24/7 on-call coverage to support program needs.
Respond promptly and effectively to critical incidents, coordinating internal and external responses as needed.

Staff Management & Development

Provide first- and second-level supervision to Residential Supervisors and Crisis Response Specialists.
Lead hiring, onboarding, performance management, and performance evaluations.
Ensure all staff are trained and proficient in crisis prevention, de-escalation, intervention techniques, and CPR/First Aid.

Financial & Administrative Oversight

Assist in developing the annual program budget and monitor ongoing financial performance.
Ensure accurate, timely reporting and participation in assigned committees.
Implement and monitor program quality improvement initiatives.

Strategic Growth & Community Engagement

Partner with leadership to maintain accreditation and licensing in good standing.
Build and maintain relationships with community organizations and professional networks.
Identify service gaps and opportunities for program expansion.
Support grant writing, proposal development, and collaboration with external partners.

What makes CSI special…

GROWTH – Opportunities to lead program expansion and innovation
FUN – A supportive team culture that values connection and purpose
IMPACT – Meaningful work that directly improves the lives of children and families

Here’s who we are looking for…

Someone who:

Has a positive and reliable work ethic
Holds experience working with children and families
Demonstrates strong leadership and team management skills
Can oversee program operations, staff supervision, and compliance requirements

Bonus Points

Experience working in a PMIC or similar residential treatment setting
Background in program development, grant writing, or community partnerships

What You’ll Get:

Medical, dental and vision insurance options
Paid vacation and sick accruals
10 paid holidays per year
401(k) matching up to 5% and fully vested right away
Referral Bonuses
Tuition reimbursement
Birthing (up to 6 weeks) & non-birthing (up to 2 weeks) at full pay
The opportunity to be a part of a forward-thinking culture

 
QualificationsQualifications

Do you think you’d be a good fit for this role? Ideally, you are:


Master's Degree Preferred (bachelor's with Relevant Experience Considered) 
4+ Years in Residential Programming and/or Behavioral Health Units
2+ Years if Progressive Leadership Experience 
Skilled in supervision, performance management, and program oversight
Strong in written, verbal, and interpersonal communication