Behavioral Health Supervisor

Behavioral Health Supervisor

Position Summary:

This position is a dynamic leadership role focused on guiding and empowering a team that supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and complex mental health needs. As the Behavioral Health Supervisor, you will oversee residential operations, drive staff development, and ensure the delivery of high-quality, person-centered services. Your leadership will shape the culture of care, foster collaboration across interdisciplinary teams, and promote best practices in behavioral health support. While occasional direct support may be required, your primary focus will be on mentoring staff, coordinating care strategies, and ensuring compliance with health, safety, and behavioral protocols.

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree or higher degree required, preferably in psychology, social work, human services, social services or related field from an accredited college or university. Relative experience may be considered in place of degree.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience supporting individuals with IDD and/or mental health needs.
• Experience in behavior consultation, crisis intervention, and medication effects preferred.

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Ability to pass drug test
• Ability to pass criminal background test
• Strong relationships, interpersonal, facilitation and communication skills.
• Strong communication, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.

Physical Requirements:

• Lifting requirements may exceed 50 pounds during medical and safety emergency situations.
• Depending on the needs of the person, may push or pull a person in their wheelchair and/or use proper lifting techniques with assistance from a mechanical lift.

Duties/Responsibilities:

Leadership & Supervision

• Supervise and mentor Behavioral Health Technicians, fostering a culture of accountability, empathy, and professional growth.
• Conduct regular performance evaluations and implement improvement plans when necessary to support staff development.
• Collaborate closely with HR on recruitment, second interviews, and onboarding to ensure team alignment and readiness.
• Deliver ongoing training, coaching, and support to staff, reinforcing best practices in behavioral health and person-centered care.
• Work in partnership with the internal case manager to ensure consistency in service delivery, alignment with individual support plans, and timely communication regarding participant needs and progress.
• Facilitate interdisciplinary collaboration by coordinating with nursing staff, psychologists, and other internal departments to ensure holistic care.
• Lead team meetings and case reviews to promote shared understanding, problem-solving, and continuous improvement across the team.

Behavioral Health Support

• Ensure the implementation of individualized behavior support plans, ensuring alignment with therapeutic goals and person-centered strategies.
• Collaborate with internal case managers, psychologists, psychiatrists, and other professionals to integrate recommendations from diverse modalities.
• Guide staff in applying behavior intervention techniques, including de-escalation strategies, crisis response protocols, and positive reinforcement models.
• Promote skill-building and emotional regulation by coaching staff on how to support individuals in developing coping mechanisms and achieving personal milestones.
• Ensure that all behavioral health practices are trauma-informed, respectful, and tailored to the unique needs and communication styles of each participant.

Scheduling & Time Management

• Coordinate and manage staff schedules to ensure adequate coverage across all shifts, including weekends and holidays, while maintaining compliance with staffing ratios and individual support needs.
• Review and approve timesheets weekly, ensuring accuracy and timeliness in payroll processing.
• Collaborate closely with internal case managers and workforce managers to align staffing with individual plans, behavioral support strategies, and therapeutic recommendations.
• Monitor team capacity and proactively adjust schedules to accommodate changes in participant needs, staff availability, and program priorities.
• Provide on-call support during emergencies or unexpected staffing gaps, demonstrating flexibility and commitment to continuity of care.
• Utilize scheduling tools and systems to track attendance, manage shift changes, and communicate updates effectively across the team.

Health & Safety Oversight

• Ensure adherence to medication administration protocols, including documentation, storage, and staff training, in alignment with regulatory standards and individual care plans.
• Comply with the implementation of health and safety procedures, including emergency preparedness plans, infection control measures, and risk mitigation strategies.
• Conduct regular safety drills (e.g., fire, severe weather, medical emergencies) and ensure results are documented, reviewed, and used to improve response protocols.
• Maintain and monitor emergency supplies, first aid kits, and safety equipment, ensuring accessibility and readiness at all times.
• Promote a culture of safety and wellness by modeling best practices, encouraging staff accountability, and continuously evaluating health-related procedures for improvement.
• Residential & Environmental Management
• Oversee home settings, ensuring that living environments are safe, clean, and conducive to the physical and emotional well-being of participants.
• Implement and follow meal preparation supports specific to each participant.
• Coordinate with internal case managers and support teams to ensure that daily living tasks—such as hygiene, mobility, cooking, and household tasks—are carried out in a respectful and empowering manner.
• Provide guidance and oversight to staff in supporting participants with personal care routines, promoting independence while ensuring dignity and safety.
• Foster a home-like atmosphere that reflects the preferences and needs of the participants, encouraging personalization and comfort.
• Collaborate with maintenance and transportation teams to address repairs, vehicle upkeep, and logistical needs in a timely and organized manner.

Documentation & Compliance

• Ensure the timely and accurate completion of all required documentation, in alignment with agency protocols and regulatory standards.
• Lead efforts to maintain compliance with internal policies, state regulations, and health department standards, including the Administrative Rules of South Dakota (ARSD).
• Collaborate with internal case managers and interdisciplinary teams to ensure documentation reflects individualized support plans, behavioral strategies, and therapeutic recommendations.
• Uphold strict confidentiality standards in all aspects of service delivery, safeguarding sensitive information related to participants, families, and staff.

Team Collaboration & Communication

• Actively participate in interdisciplinary team meetings, contributing to service planning, problem-solving, and the development of individualized support strategies.
• Foster strong, transparent communication across all levels of the team—including behavioral health technicians, internal case managers, medical professionals, and administrative staff—to ensure consistency and alignment in service delivery.
• Lead by example in cultivating a collaborative work culture rooted in mutual respect, accountability, and shared commitment to person-centered care.
• Encourage open dialogue and feedback among team members to identify challenges, celebrate successes, and continuously improve practices.