Job Description

Date Posted: January 6, 2026

Position: Residential Director
Location: Plankinton, South Dakota
Organization: Aurora Plains Academy

Lead, Inspire, and Transform Lives as Our Residential Director

Aurora Plains Academy is seeking an experienced and dedicated Residential Director to lead our residential treatment program and make a lasting impact in the lives of youth facing mental health and behavioral challenges.

This leadership role is responsible for overseeing daily residential operations, supervising staff, and ensuring a safe, structured, and therapeutic environment where youth can grow, develop, and succeed.

If you are passionate about mentoring staff, guiding youth, and strengthening residential programs, we encourage you to apply.

Why Choose Aurora Plains Academy?

Make a Meaningful Impact
Help lead a program dedicated to empowering youth to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals.

Competitive Compensation
Salary commensurate with experience.

Generous Sign-On Bonus
Earn a $3,000 sign-on bonus for full-time employment.

Education Support
Tuition reimbursement available—up to $2,250 per semester for employees working at least 24 hours per week.

Comprehensive Benefits Package

• Health Insurance (Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield)

• Dental Insurance

• Vision Insurance

• Life Insurance

• Employee Assistance Program

• 401(k) with company matching

• Paid Holidays, Vacation, and Sick Leave

• Flexible Spending Account

• Referral Program

• Retirement Plan

Key Responsibilities

Program Leadership

• Oversee daily operations of the residential program.

• Ensure compliance with agency policies, state regulations, and licensing requirements.

• Maintain a structured, safe, and therapeutic environment for residents.

Staff Supervision & Development

• Supervise, mentor, and support residential staff.

• Coordinate staff schedules and ensure appropriate staffing coverage.

• Provide coaching, evaluations, and ongoing professional development.

Youth Support & Program Oversight

• Ensure youth receive consistent behavioral, emotional, and developmental support.

• Collaborate with clinical staff and other departments to support treatment goals.

• Monitor youth progress and ensure appropriate interventions are implemented.

Safety & Crisis Management

• Respond to and manage critical incidents or behavioral crises.

• Ensure safety procedures and protocols are followed at all times.

Training & Quality Improvement

• Participate in staff training and leadership meetings.

• Promote continuous improvement within the residential program.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 21 years old

• Minimum of 5 years experience working with youth in residential treatment, behavioral health, or a related field

• At least 2 years of supervisory or leadership experience

• Must be willing to become a Certified Instructor in Safe Crisis Management (SCM)

• Must pass a caregiver/criminal background check

• Must provide documentation authorizing legal employment in the United States