Clinical Director

ABOUT NWRC

Northwest Regional Council (NWRC) is a multi-service agency that covers the Washington counties of Island, San Juan, Skagit and Whatcom, with offices in Bellingham and Mount Vernon, Washington.  NWRC’s slogan: “Human services with you at the center” encapsulates its focus on creating new solutions to navigate the challenges of aging and disability, proactive paths to behavioral health and recovery, and new partnerships between healthcare and social services.

We are seeking applicants for a Clinical Director to lead our clinical programs! The first review date for this position is Monday, October 19th, 2026. 1st & 2nd interview dates are projected to be 10/27 and 11/09. 

JOIN US

NWRC’s values are centered on the concepts of respect, inclusiveness, and striving to foster a healthy work environment for all employees. With these values in mind, we will do our part to support and further diversity, equity, and inclusion not only in our workplace, but in our communities. Toward this goal, we invite candidates from all backgrounds and perspectives to apply and help shape the future of NWRC.

CLINICAL PROGRAM

The Clinical Programs at NWRC are those focused on in-person social work and behavioral health interventions. This includes developing plans based on client goals. Care Coordinators, Behavioral Health Clinicians and other Specialists in our clinical unit utilize collaboration to effectively provide a variety of services for clients across our region.

A DAY IN THE LIFE

The Clinical Director provides strategic leadership and operational management of region-wide clinical programs that include the Care Coordination and Behavioral Health programs. In addition to oversight of NWRC's direct services, the position provides strategic direction for contracted providers, as well as the wider organization by participation in the Management Team. This position will lead new program development, including direct supervision of pilot projects and the research and data analysis involved. As a member of the Management Team and the Department Head Team, this position contributes to agency-wide planning, budget development, monitoring and problem solving. 

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

10-Step pay range: $96,740- $126,229/ annually

NWRC salary ranges are comprised of a 10-Step scale. On their employment anniversary, employees are eligible for an annual pay increase to the next step in the associated salary range, subject to satisfactory performance. In addition to the annual pay increases, NWRC assesses cost of living adjustments (COLA) on an annual basis, subject to Governing Board approval. New employees at NWRC usually start at the first step in the position’s assigned salary range. NWRC may consider a higher step when evaluating the candidate’s experience, training, or proven capability. Internal equity will be reviewed and prioritized when determining a starting pay rate.

As a full-time, permanent, exempt role, this position is eligible for the following benefits: 

• 100% Employer paid medical for individual employee plans and up to 95% paid medical for dependent coverage plans, with multiple plan options


• 100% Employer paid Dental and Vision for the employee and eligible dependents with multiple plan options
  


• Washington State Public Employees Retirement System (PERS 2 or PERS 3)


• 100% Employer paid Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for employee & dependents


• Life and Long-term Disability insurance, including voluntary buy-up options


• Vacation Leave, accrued at 8hrs/month & increasing with longevity


• Sick Leave, accrued at 8hrs/month


• 13 Paid Holidays Annually


• 3 Paid Wellness Days Annually


• Voluntary Flex Spending Plans for health and/or child/elder care


• Voluntary Deferred Compensation Program


• Alternative Work Schedules


• Hybrid Work Environment


• $200 annual reimbursement for WA State Department of Health licensure fees


• 4% premium pay offered for Certified Social Services Interpreters 

Note:  NWRC meets the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) definition of a public service organization.

SCHEDULE & LOCATION

NWRC strives to offer employees schedule flexibility while balancing the needs of their role within the agency with their personal lives. The Clinical Director will work with the Executive Director to develop a schedule that includes regular, in person time in both the Skagit and Whatcom office's as well as optional remote days after successful completion of the 6-month trial service period. 

QUALIFICATIONS

Education/Experience: 

•    Master's degree in behavioral or health sciences or related field.
•    Two years of experience providing direct human services to clients, preferably in a community setting
•    A minimum of three years' experience supervising and managing within social, health and/or human services field,          preferably in the field of long-term services and supports, behavioral health, or care coordination.
•    Experience working within Medicaid systems preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Demonstrated ability to assess client needs with consideration of the values of diverse groups: understand social and cultural contexts, understand the role of historical and personal trauma, community, family and personal experience in wellness and recovery, as well as institutional barriers to services.


• Knowledge of principles, methods and procedures for diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation of mental dysfunctions, to provide counseling and guidance, or interest and ability to learn.


• Basic knowledge of issues related to aging and disability; work effectively with those experiencing complex needs and multi-system involvement.


• Demonstrates an ability to engage and work effectively with communities of color, people with disabilities, LGBTQIA+, and other marginalized communities, utilizing culturally responsive skills and practices.


• Demonstrated ability, willingness and commitment to support an environment that advocates and creates a sense of belonging for individuals of all ethnicities, genders, ages, and backgrounds.


• Committed to social justice by prioritizing knowledge building as it relates to equity in the workplace, and being able to apply an equity lens to decision-making.


• Working knowledge of the Credentialing process of clinical providers.


• Ability to work independently, with good judgment and minimal supervision.


• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with coworkers, community agencies, and the general public using courtesy, tact, and rapport.


• Ability to maintain a positive, solution-focused demeanor when responding to conflicts or problems.


• Demonstrated ability to maintain a high level of confidentiality.


• Demonstrated ability to work with computers (Microsoft Suite: Word, Excel, Outlook, etc.).and other basic computer skills, including the ability to utilize electronic medical record systems.


• Skill and/or fluency in speaking other languages, i.e. Spanish or Russian, are desired but not required.

Licenses/Certificates/Special Requirements:

• Valid, unencumbered, current credential issued by the Department of Health as a:
  
  
  
  • Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), or
  
  
  • Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), or
  
  
  • Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) or
  
  
  • Equivalent field
    
  
  
  
  


• Substance Use Disorder Professional (SUDP) preferred 
  


• Completion of clinical supervision training preferred; required within one year of hire .


• Must have a valid Washington State driver's license, a vehicle available for work related travel, and appropriate liability insurance.

RECRUITMENT & SELECTION PROCESS

NWRC is committed to continuous improvement in our recruitment and selection practices. We strive to provide a respectful, inclusive and transparent candidate experience, while reducing barriers and supporting equitable access to employment opportunities. We prioritize timely, clear communication with candidates to reduce uncertainty and our selection process is comprised of job-related evaluation methods that are reviewed by multiple hiring team members. Applicants may request reasonable accommodation at any stage of the hiring process.