Health Services Director

The Health Service Director is responsible for the leadership, oversight, and administration of the Tribe’s health and wellness programs. This includes managing clinical and community health services, ensuring compliance with funding and reporting requirements, and promoting the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of Tribal members. The Director serves as a liaison between the Tribe and regional or national health agencies and coalitions, including USET, NCAI, NIHB and ensures Tribal interests are represented and protected. Additionally, the Director administers an annual health department budget exceeding $1.4 million and ensures compliance with the Title V Health Services Self-Governance Compact and Annual Funding Agreement (AFA) between Indian Health Service (IHS) and the Wampanoag Tribe of Gay Head (Aquinnah).

Competencies (Knowledge, Skills, Abilities)

• Strong leadership, organizational, and supervisory skills
• In-depth knowledge of health systems, tribal health policy, and culturally appropriate care
• Grant writing and grant management expertise
• Financial management and budgeting proficiency
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Experience in health program evaluation and quality improvement
• Cultural competence in working with Native communities
• Knowledge of HIPAA, IHS standards, and federal funding regulations
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism
• Collaborative mindset and the ability to build partnerships across sectors
• Crisis and emergency response planning skills
• Computer proficiency, including Microsoft Excel and Word

Physical Demands
• Prolonged Physical Demands
• Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer
• Frequent use of hands for typing and document handling
• Ability to occasionally lift and carry office materials up to 15 pounds

Required Education
• Bachelor’s degree in Public Health, Health Administration, Nursing, Social Work, or a related health or human services field
• An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered
Required Experience
• Minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in health program administration, public health, or healthcare management
• Experience in health planning, policy analysis, and program implementation
• At least two (2) years of supervisory or leadership experience in a healthcare or public health setting
• Experience in managing health-related grants and budgets
• Knowledge of Tribal health systems, Indian Health Service (IHS), or federal/state health programs
• Must pass a CORI/Background check and possess a valid driver’s license
Preferred Education and Experience
• Master’s degree in Public Health, Health Administration, or a related field
• Experience working in or with Tribal communities
• Familiarity with Indian Health Service systems, public health accreditation, and rural health delivery
• Certification in emergency preparedness or community health
Tribal Preference
In accordance with the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act (ISDEAA) and the policies of the Wampanoag Tribe of Gay Head (Aquinnah), preference in hiring will be given to qualified Tribal members, their spouses, and descendants, as well as other Native American applicants. Proof of Tribal affiliation or descent may be required.

Essential Functions
Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.
• Provide leadership and strategic direction for all Tribal health-related services and programs, including primary care, behavioral health, substance use prevention, maternal and child health, and public health initiatives.
• Develop and maintain planning and management systems that support efficient daily operations of a comprehensive Health Service Department.
• Supervise health department staff, contractors, and program coordinators; ensure clear expectations, training, and performance evaluations.

• Develop, monitor, and manage departmental budgets; ensure compliance with Tribal, federal, and state funding requirements.
• Administer over $1.4 million in annual program grants.
• Ensure compliance with the Title V Health Services Self-Governance Compact and Annual Funding Agreement (AFA) with IHS.
• Identify and pursue grant opportunities to enhance and expand health services for the Tribal community.
• Ensure compliance with HIPAA, OSHA, Indian Health Service (IHS), and other applicable health regulations and policies.
• Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of health programs and services through data collection, reporting, and quality improvement efforts.
• Facilitate coordination between departments and with external partners (local clinics, hospitals, IHS, state health departments) to ensure continuity of care and service access.
• Serve as a health policy advisor to Tribal Council and Health Committee, providing recommendations, updates, and reports as requested.
• Promote health education and prevention programs that align with Tribal priorities and cultural values.
• Develop emergency preparedness plans in coordination with Tribal Emergency Management.
• Advocate for Tribal health needs at local, state, and federal levels.
• Represent the Tribe in regional and national Tribal health forums, coalitions (e.g., USET, NCAI, NIHB), and conferences.
• Maintain communication with community members regarding health initiatives and resources.

$86,320 - $120,848 annually