Deputy Director of Division of Substance Use Programs

Overview

The Vermont Department of Health is seeking a Deputy Director for Substance Use Programming to support the leadership, strategy, and implementation of programs addressing substance use disorder (SUD). The Deputy Director will work closely with the Division Director to oversee program development, operations, partnerships, and evaluation of services aimed at prevention, harm reduction, treatment access, and recovery support.

This position plays a critical role in advancing equitable, evidence-based responses to substance use and strengthening community-based systems of care.

Key Responsibilities:

Program Leadership & Strategy

• Support strategic planning and implementation of substance use programs and initiatives.
• Assist in setting program priorities aligned with organizational goals and public health best practices.
• Oversee program performance, ensuring quality, effectiveness, and compliance with funding requirements.
• Lead implementation projects that address the ever evolving landscape of substance use programming.

Operations & Management

• Coordinate cross-program initiatives and ensure operational efficiency.
• Develop policies, procedures, and workflows to support program delivery.
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Partnerships & Community Engagement

• Build and maintain relationships with community organizations, healthcare providers, public agencies, and advocacy groups.
• Represent the organization in local, regional, and statewide coalitions addressing substance use.
• Support collaborative initiatives to expand prevention, treatment, and recovery resources.

Data, Evaluation & Reporting

• Monitor program outcomes and performance metrics.
• Work with evaluation and data teams to assess program impact and identify improvements.
• Prepare reports for leadership, funders, and stakeholders.

Funding & Compliance

• Assist with grant development, budgeting, and financial oversight.
• Ensure programs comply with federal, state, and local regulations and reporting requirements.

The Vermont Department of Health is committed to strengthening health systems and supporting our communities across the state. This position offers the opportunity to shape statewide substance use policy and programming and work with partners dedicated to improving health and wellbeing.

Who May Apply

This position, Deputy Director of Division of Substance Use Programs (Job Requisition #54602), is open to all State employees and external applicants.
If you would like more information about this position, please contact Emily Trutor at emily.trutor@vermont.gov.
Resumes will not be accepted via e-mail.  You must apply online to be considered.
Please note that multiple positions in the same work location may be filled from this job posting.
 

AHS BACKGROUND CHECKS:  Candidates must pass any level of background investigation applicable to the position.  In accordance with AHS Policy 4.02, Hiring Standards, Vermont and/or national criminal record checks, as well as DMV and adult and child abuse registry checks, as appropriate to the position under recruitment, will be conducted on candidates, with the exception of those who are current classified state employees seeking transfer, promotion or demotion into an AHS classified position or are persons exercising re-employment (RIF) rights.

Environmental Factors

Duties are performed in a standard office setting but with some travel statewide for which private means of transportation must be available. Issues of program priority conflicts may arise and require sensitive and reasoned resolution. Significant work outside of normal office hours may be anticipated.

Minimum Qualifications

Master’s degree in public health, public administration or a human services or healthcare field AND three (3) years of progressively responsible professional experience in a public health, human services or health related field including two (2) years in a leadership role.

OR

Bachelor’s degree in public health, public administration or a human services or healthcare field AND five (5) years of progressively responsible professional experience in a public health, human services or health related field including three (3) years in a leadership role.

OR

Associates degree AND eight (8) years of progressively responsible professional experience in a public health, human services or health related field including three (3) years in a leadership role.

OR

High school diploma AND ten (10) years of progressively responsible professional experience in a public health, human services or health related field including three (3) years in a leadership role.

Special Requirements

Candidates must pass any level of background investigation applicable to the position. In accordance with AHS Policy 4.02, Hiring Standards, Vermont and/or national criminal record checks, as well as DMV and adult and child abuse registry checks, as appropriate to the position under recruitment, will be conducted on candidates, with the exception of those who are current classified state employees seeking transfer, promotion or demotion into an AHS classified position or are persons exercising re-employment (RIF) rights.

Total Compensation

As a State employee you are offered a great career opportunity, but it's more than a paycheck. The State's total compensation package features an outstanding set of employee benefits that are worth about 30% of your total compensation, including:

• 80% State paid medical premium and a dental plan at no cost for employees and their families
• Work/Life balance: 11 paid holidays each year and a generous leave plan
• State Paid Family and Medical Leave Insurance (FMLI)
• Two ways to save for your retirement: A State defined benefit pension plan and a deferred compensation 457(b) plan
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Flexible spending healthcare and childcare reimbursement accounts
• Low cost group life insurance
• Incentive-based Wellness Program
• Qualified Employer for Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness Program

Want the specifics? Explore the Benefits of State Employment on our website.

Equal Opportunity Employer