Public Health Program Specialist; Behavioral Health

Posted On: February 13, 2026

Job Type: Full-time

• Our ideal candidate will have a bachelor’s or master’s degree, including formal training or experience in public health or community health, familiarity with behavioral health crisis efforts in Montana, and experience leading systems change.
• Demonstrated capacity to meet contract deliverables, including the creation of statewide public health initiatives, management and coordination of sub-contractors, and effective collaboration with state, local, and tribal health leaders.
• At least 3 years of relevant professional experience, including experience in supporting or leading programs and services in behavioral health, tribal health or human services, public health, healthcare, or related field.
• Knowledge of and/or life experience with Montana’s American Indian Tribes and Tribal people.
• Knowledge of Montana’s public health, behavioral health and healthcare systems, health issues, needs, opportunities and the policy environment.
• Proven ability to support, develop, and implement programs and services that effectively address health-related issues.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills and an excellent attention to detail.
• An overall commitment to excellence in quality of work and outcomes.
• Experience is preferred working with local/tribal public health departments, a state health department, or related agencies to support community health improvement.
• Track record of adaptability, personal accountability, and initiative.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and ability to adapt to new software systems.

A full job posting and application directions available on the Montana Public Health Institute web site: https://(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..

Montana Public Health Institute (MTPHI) is announcing a job posting for a Public Health Program Specialist (Behavioral Health).
MTPHI is a non-profit organization dedicated to optimizing the health and quality of life of Montanans by strengthening the public health system through collaboration, leadership, and the advancement of health equity. The MTPHI supports state, local and tribal public health agencies, healthcare and behavioral health system partners, statewide health organizations and community-based organizations, to deliver effective public health programs, services, and protections.

In particular, MTPHI programs and services seek to offer capacity and support to frontier, rural and tribal communities.
The Public Health Program Specialist (PHPS) will report to the Senior Program Officer for Behavioral Health. The work of the PHPS will be focused on efforts to address behavioral health needs, specifically related to supporting community-driven mental health crisis re-design. This position will work closely with the Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS)/Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities Division (BHDD) Treatment Bureau and other statewide partners, to strengthen behavioral health crisis systems.

This position will provide technical assistance and look for opportunities to empower communities to design a no wrong door approach for people experiencing crisis.
In considering applicants, emphasis will be placed on demonstrated experience or ability to work with diverse partners to improve health or human service systems. Successful applicants should also be prepared to support locally-led coalitions and navigate critical partnerships with state partners.

If interested in applying, please submit a cover letter, resume and contact information for three references to jennifer.mccully. Priority will be given to applications received by March 6, 2026.
Questions can be directed to Jennifer McCully ully or .