Senior Public Health Project Specialist

As a community, the University of Rochester is defined by a deep commitment to Meliora - Ever Better. Embedded in that ideal are the values we share: equity, leadership, integrity, openness, respect, and accountability. Together, we will set the highest standards for how we treat each other to ensure our community is welcoming to all and is a place where all can thrive.

Job Location (Full Address):

255 Crittenden Blvd, Rochester, New York, United States of America, 14642

Opening:

Worker Subtype:

Temporary

Time Type:

Time as Reported / Per Diem

Scheduled Weekly Hours:

As Scheduled

Department:

600223 SON Staff/Research Programs

Work Shift:

UR - Day (United States of America)

Range:

UR URC 211 H

Compensation Range:

$28.47 - $39.84

Responsibilities:

GENERAL SUMMARY
The Senior Health Project Coordinator will provide pivotal leadership, oversight, and support to establish the organizational infrastructure necessary for the launch of a new upstate adolescent eating disorders residential facility. This role is critical for the implementation of the program's infrastructure as outlined in the NY State Office of Mental Health (OMH) Prior Approval Review (PAR). The Senior Health Project Coordinator will collaborate closely with the Western NY Comprehensive Care Center for Eating Disorders Director and Medical Director, as well as The Healing Connection Leadership and Board, to achieve successful program initiation.

Position is a temporary time-as-reported (17 hours/week) position, and the anticipated project completion is December 2025.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Program Development & Licensing:

• Lead the comprehensive process of securing all necessary state and local licensing and certifications for the CREDIT program, ensuring full compliance with New York State regulations.
• Develop, implement, and continuously refine all program policies and procedures, ensuring they meet regulatory requirements and best practices for residential eating disorder treatment.
• Collaborate with legal and regulatory experts to navigate the licensing application and approval processes.
• Prepare and submit all required documentation for licensing, and act as the primary liaison with regulatory bodies.

Operational Infrastructure:

• Oversee the selection, implementation, and optimization of the electronic medical record (EMR) system.
• Establish and implement a robust billing system and all necessary front-end support operations, including claims submission and revenue cycle management.
• Design and implement a comprehensive referral process, ensuring seamless intake and admission procedures.
• Lead the initial setup and ongoing implementation of Quality Improvement (QI) monitoring systems, Institutional Review Board (IRB) processes, and outcome measurement systems to ensure program effectiveness and compliance.

Staffing & Training:

• Develop and post comprehensive job descriptions for all program positions.
• Lead the full recruitment lifecycle, including screening, interviewing, and hiring qualified staff.
• Conduct all state-mandated background checks and thorough vetting of all personnel to ensure compliance and patient safety.
• Design, implement, and oversee a comprehensive onboarding and training program for all new staff, covering clinical protocols, policies, EMR usage, and regulatory compliance.

Financial & Contract Management:

• Secure contracts and establish strong relationships with various insurers and managed care organizations to ensure reimbursement for services.
• Develop and manage the program budget in collaboration with leadership.

Marketing & Community Engagement:

• Lead marketing and networking initiatives with community providers, schools, and colleges to increase awareness of the residential facility and build a strong referral network.

Vendor & Consultant Management:

• Oversee and manage relationships with all consultants and independent contractors involved in the program launch and ongoing operations.

Other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s degree with major course work in an appropriate health, social, or technical field. Required
• Master’s degree preferred in healthcare administration, public health, business administration, or a related field. Preferred
• 3 years of related experience. Required
• 5-10 years of supervisory or management experience in a healthcare field, with a proven track record of successful program implementation and operational leadership. Preferred
• Experience specifically with licensing and regulatory compliance within New York State healthcare is highly desirable. Preferred
• Or equivalent combination of education and experience

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Demonstrated experience in establishing and launching new healthcare programs or facilities is essential.
• Strong understanding of New York State OMH regulations and the Prior Approval Review (PAR) process.
• Proven ability to secure and manage contracts with insurers.
• Experience with electronic medical record (EMR) implementation and billing systems.
• Must possess strong leadership skills, the ability to develop and work effectively within a team, excellent interpersonal skills, and superior problem-solving and critical thinking abilities.
• Exceptional decision-making, analytical, and outstanding oral and written communication skills are essential.
• Must be a systems thinker and consensus builder, with the ability to balance multiple demands and demonstrate extreme flexibility in a dynamic environment.
• Personal characteristics including integrity, compassion, credibility, the ability to multi-task, and strong initiative are paramount.
• Ask questions during the interview to determine this

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