Director of Vocational Services

Job Opening Announcement: Director of Vocational Services

Location: Northern Hills Training Center
Reports to: Chief Executive Officer
Employment Type: Full Time

Position Summary

Northern Hills Training Center (NHTC) is seeking a dedicated and experienced Director of Vocational Services to provide leadership and oversight for all vocational services including Career Exploration, Small Group Vocational Employment, Group Supported Employment, and Individual Supported Employment, and sheltered workshop. This position is responsible for ensuring high-quality, person-centered services that promote skill development, meaningful employment, and community inclusion.

The Director of Vocational Services ensures compliance with all applicable regulations while supporting staff, monitoring outcomes, and advancing NHTC’s mission of empowering individuals to achieve independence and meaningful participation in their communities.  Also responsible for overseeing the sub-minimum wage certificate, Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) implementation, and maintaining strong relationships with state agencies, school districts, and community employers.

Key Responsibilities

Program Leadership & Oversight

• Direct and oversee vocational, employment, and day service programs, including center-based and community-based services


• Ensure services are person-centered and aligned with individualized service plans and employment goals


• Monitor program effectiveness and service outcomes

Compliance & Quality Assurance

• Ensure programs comply with South Dakota licensing standards, Medicaid requirements, CQL, and organizational policies


• Oversee documentation, service delivery, and billing practices to ensure accuracy, completeness, and compliance


• Participate in audits, reviews, and corrective action planning as needed

Staff Leadership & Development

• Supervise and support program managers, supervisors, and vocational staff


• Assist with hiring, onboarding, training, and performance management


• Promote a positive, inclusive, and accountable workplace culture

Employment & Community Partnerships

• Develop and maintain relationships with employers, community partners, and case managers


• Support community employment opportunities and job development efforts


• Represent NHTC in workforce and community collaboration efforts

Data, Documentation & Reporting

• Oversee the collection and maintenance of program and service data using spreadsheets and web-based systems


• Monitor performance metrics, service utilization, and outcome data


• Provide regular reports to executive leadership


• Complete required paperwork and collect data for submission to the Department of Labor for sub‑minimum wage certificate approval


• Conduct time studies for individuals participating under the sub‑minimum wage certificate at least every six months


• Conduct prevailing wage analyses to ensure fair compensation


• Review payroll and make corrections as needed


• Schedule and conduct sub‑minimum wage reviews with external State employees


• Ensure compliance with WIOA and Section 511 regulations as current organizational practice


• Research and implement upcoming vocational and employment‑related laws


• Maintain open communication with the State Vocational Rehabilitation Director, State staff, and school districts


• Obtain and maintain certification as a Certified Employment Support Professional


• Develop and maintain positive relationships with community employers to secure contract and supported employment opportunities

Compensation & Benefits

• Northern Hills Training Center offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience, along with a comprehensive benefits package that may include health insurance, retirement plan, paid time off, and professional development opportunities.

How to Apply

• Interested candidates should submit a cover letter and résumé to the BambooHR posting or directly to [email protected]


• Northern Hills Training Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce.