Director of Behavioral Health - Butte County, California
Shape the future of behavioral health for an entire county and the people who depend on it.
Butte County, located in the northern Sacramento Valley and home to more than 200,000 residents, offers an exceptional quality of life with access to outdoor recreation, vibrant communities, and a lower cost of living than many parts of California. The County’s communities are defined by resilience, connection, and a shared commitment to supporting one another.
The County of Butte is seeking a Director of Behavioral Health to lead a complex, multi-dimensional system of care serving children, adults, and families across mental health and substance use services. Reporting to the Chief Administrative Officer, this executive will shape strategy, guide operations, and lead a large, multidisciplinary organization delivering critical services to the community.
This is a rare opportunity to make a lasting impact. At a time of significant statewide change and local momentum, the Director will lead transformative initiatives - expanding treatment and crisis services, strengthening system integration, and advancing innovative partnerships across healthcare, public safety, and community organizations. The work is meaningful, visible, and deeply connected to the community's well-being.
The ideal candidate is a mission-driven, strategic leader who brings both heart and discipline to the work. They are a relationship builder who inspires trust, aligns partners, and leads with clarity and purpose. Equally comfortable setting vision and driving execution, this leader can make tough decisions, navigate complexity, and advance important work.
Candidates will bring senior leadership experience in behavioral health or a related system, with a track record of managing large organizations, complex funding streams, and multidisciplinary teams. Experience in California’s behavioral health system and qualification as a Local Mental Health Director are highly valued.
The salary range is $166,041–$200,909 DOQE, plus a competitive executive benefits package.
Filing Deadline: May 13, 2026
Resumes are acknowledged within 2 business days.
