Careers

Bridges is hiring approximately 60 Court Liaisons across the state to support justice involved individuals experiencing severe and persistent mental illness. 

Position Purpose

Legislation creating Bridges of Colorado speaks to the disparities typically experienced by individuals with significant mental and/or behavioral health challenges, including mental health disabilities, who are also involved in the criminal justice system and tasks the program with promoting positive outcomes for participants. Court liaisons are generalists, boundary spanners, and creative problem solvers who work to identify needs and help connect participants to appropriate services, in part by addressing the multitude of complex barriers that exist for participants. Court liaisons are assigned by district or region of the State and support Bridges participants in gaining access to meaningful services and resources with a person-centered, trauma-informed, and socially just approach.

This critical role also liaises with the relevant criminal justice, behavioral health, and support service entities to support decision-making and actions that take into consideration the participants’ behavioral health best interests.  Court liaisons function as court-appointed experts, providing a broader base of information for legal problem-solving and decision-making.  They inform courts and attorneys of participant needs, available community-based services, and individual and systemic barriers and related solutions.  While liaisons are neutral in legal proceedings, they advocate for the best interests of the participant’s behavioral health both in and out of the court setting. 

Position Location and Travel Requirements

This position works in a hybrid, work-from-home base blended with regular regional and/or state travel, depending on the particular assignment. This position will be responsible for providing court liaison services to a specifically assigned region in Colorado.  Applicants will have the opportunity to select the region(s) for which they are applying upon application.  The court liaison may be assigned to a specific district within the region, or they may be assigned to provide coverage (see more information in the Other Responsibilities section below) throughout the region. The court liaison is expected to travel and work within the area(s) they support as needed on a weekly and often daily basis. Occasional travel to the Bridges office in Denver is to be expected. Reliable transportation is required.

Essential Functions

Person-Centered

• Provide ongoing, personalized engagement with participants through person-centered, solution-focused case management. 
• Identify and address the needs of participants, including their behavioral health history and needs, social determinants of health needs, and cultural considerations.
• Determine appropriate, meaningful, and culturally responsive referral and treatment options. Identify existing programs, community agencies, and payor sources (such as Medicaid) to support participant engagement with the most appropriate services.
• Make direct connections to, and support engagement with, a wide range of services for participants, including, but not limited to, inpatient, outpatient, and out-of-custody competency evaluations and/or restoration services, case management services, behavioral health services or psychiatric services or supports, and employment, housing, and other social supports. 
• Actively support participant engagement with these services, including addressing barriers, adapting initial case plans to meet any changing needs of the participant, engaging family and other support systems when relevant, and providing advocacy when necessary.
• Track activity on cases through accurate and timely case noting and recording of information in the Bridges case management system and other related systems, including relevant outcomes.
• Identify, through a variety of mechanisms, individuals who have not been appointed a court liaison but for whom an appointment to Bridges may be beneficial and make recommendations to the Court for appointment of a court liaison.
• As needed, continue to serve participants for up to 90 days after final disposition of the case for which the court liaison was appointed.
• Engage in all aspects of work in ways that humanize participants, including practicing trauma-informed care, culturally competent responses, and providing advocacy when participant well-being is at significant risk.
• Approach all responsibilities with participants, families, stakeholders, and team members according to the values, models, standards, and best practices of Bridges of Colorado.
• Support Bridges team culture and values.

Solution-Focused

• Inform judicial officers and attorneys (via reports to the court and appearances at court hearings) in a timely manner about participant needs regarding mental health, social determinants of health, and equitable access to related services, including community-based services.
• Inform judicial officers and attorneys in a timely manner about:
  • Available and appropriate behavioral health services and supports, competency evaluations, restoration to competency services, and other relevant decisions, barriers, and issues facing individuals with behavioral health conditions who are involved with the criminal justice system.
  • Available community-based services for the participant in a case, and, if applicable, case planning for possible release from custody.
  • Other criminal or juvenile justice diversion programs for participants, which may include alternatives to competency services, prosecution, and custody or confinement; if a participant is convicted, alternatives to sentences to confinement that continue to promote public safety and participant stability; and other diversion-oriented programs, including problem-solving courts, competency dockets, treatment, sober, or supportive housing, and peer mentor programs.
• Act as a resource for Court and Parties to the case.  (The court liaison shall not be an independent party in a case nor serve in a role intended to monitor compliance with a court order by a Party or other person associated with a case.)
• Submit all required reports to the court on time and attend hearings as necessary or requested.
• Provide data as requested by the Bridges leadership team promptly.
• Identify gaps or areas of need in the local or state network of behavioral health services and work with Bridges leadership to pursue solutions.
• Participate in onboarding, education, communities of practice, team meetings, and professional development opportunities as recommended or required by Bridges leadership.
• Advocate for the behavioral health best interests of participants with judicial officers and attorneys by engaging the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, and legal neutrality.

Collaborative

• Foster collaboration and communication between behavioral health and criminal justice systems in ways that promote positive outcomes and ensure participants are treated fairly and humanely, regardless of their behavioral health history or mental state.
• Work with judicial officers, attorneys, jails, hospitals, and service providers to address system gaps and barriers and promote positive outcomes for participants in assigned cases.
• Coordinate with behavioral health (including the Office of Civil and Forensic Mental Health) and other providers to ensure continuity of care and address barriers to successful engagement for participants. 
• Coordinate with hospitals and jail-based behavioral health providers to ensure continuity of care and service delivery at both entrance and exit for participants, striving to problem-solve gaps and barriers as necessary.
• Provide non-case-specific consultation to criminal justice personnel regarding behavioral health and community treatment options.
• Identify and strengthen relationships and referral processes with existing community resources. 
• Coordinate with service providers, including the Office of Civil and Forensic Mental Health and jail-based behavioral health providers, to ensure continuity of care and service delivery and in a manner that avoids duplication and bifurcation of services.
• Provide informal and non-case-specific consultation, education, and advocacy with all stakeholders in order to address systemic barriers across both the behavioral health and criminal justice systems.
• As needed, assist with formal judicial and attorney education within assigned district(s).
• Advocate for the behavioral health best interests of participants across systems by engaging the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, and legal neutrality.

No direct supervisory duties.

Other Responsibilities

This is a dynamic position where the scope of responsibilities and duties will evolve, and the incumbent should anticipate fulfilling other duties as assigned that are reasonable and necessary to fulfill the Bridges mission. The ideal candidate for this role will not only possess the ability to fulfill the outlined duties but will also be a proactive, adaptable, and capable contributor to the development of the role's scope and responsibilities, aligning them with the evolving needs of the Office.

Coverage Court Liaison Responsibilities

A coverage court liaison serves a critical function in the overall liaison operations by supporting their assigned regions when there is a temporary need due to employee absences, leaves, vacancies, specific needs, or high caseloads. They will carry a high level of knowledge about regional resources and support other court liaisons and the Regional Manager in situations needing coverage in a geographical area.  Duties of the coverage liaison differ slightly from the essential functions listed above in the following ways:

• Provide court liaison essential functions across multiple districts in a region in accordance with regional team priorities as identified by the Regional Manager.
• Carry participant caseloads in a designated region, to provide coverage during vacancies, extended leave, or to support liaisons with specific needs or high caseloads.
• May support district-assigned court liaisons by working directly with participants who require a high level of engagement and partnering with assigned court liaison.
• Relationships with participants will differ from district-assigned court liaisons in that they may be short-term in nature.
• Relationships with judicial officers and attorneys will differ from district-assigned court liaisons in that they may be short-term in nature.
• May accompany other court liaisons on home visits as needed.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

The ideal candidate is passionate about working to improve the systems of care for those caught in the intersection of behavioral health and the criminal justice system along with the following:

• Fluency in the professional language, best practices, and processes of both systems.
• Person-centered, solutions-focused, and collaborative and are deeply committed to justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion.
• Value individualized solutions and responses that are meaningful to the participant and their well-being.
• Knowledge and experience of interpersonal trauma-informed approaches and systems of care, specifically understanding the importance of being person-centered, solutions-focused, and collaborative in this work.
• Able to communicate and collaborate with varying levels of positions of power and manage conflict proactively and responsively with professionalism, confidentiality, clarity, and effectiveness.
• Creative, self-motivated, and able to work and make decisions independently in a decentralized environment without close supervision.
• Client-driven and values-driven.
• Aligned with Bridges’ culture and passionate about supporting it throughout the organization.
• Capable of, and enjoys, thriving in a fast-paced, multi-tasking environment with thoughtful decision-making skills.
• Emotional intelligence; able to create and sustain helpful, professional work relationships thoughtfully and responsively with empathy, respect, and collaboration.

Minimum Qualifications

• Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor’s degree in social justice, social work, sociology, criminology, or a related field.
• Candidates must have a minimum of three (3+) years’ experience in criminal justice, behavioral health, or related field.
• Demonstrated professional alignment with Bridges values, culture, and principles of justice and equity throughout the organization.

OR

• At least one (1+) year as an employee or contractor with Bridges may substitute for the minimum qualifications above, with additional specialized training that may be required upon hire.
• Certain education, volunteer experience, or internship experience in a related field may be considered in lieu of part of this requirement, as well as successful completion of the Bridges Liaison-in-Training program. 

Don’t meet the qualifications above, but feel you are a good fit for Bridges? Learn about our Liaison-in-Training program. 

Preferred Qualifications

• Graduation from an accredited college or university with a master’s degree in social justice, social work, sociology, criminology, or a related field.
• Five or more (5+) years’ experience in criminal justice, behavioral health, or related field.
• Demonstrated continuing education, advocacy, or volunteer work in DEI, JEDI, or social justice principles. Lived experience will also be considered.
• Spanish speaking is a plus, and levels of proficiency will be considered in an employee’s pay.
• Work experience in both criminal justice and behavioral health, including experience with the competency system.

Work Environment

Outside the home workspace, the noise level in the work environment is variable. This position is subject to varying and unpredictable situations; may handle emergency or crisis situations; is subject to many interruptions; may handle multiple calls, emails, and verbal inquiries simultaneously.

Accommodations

The Bridges Office is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. As part of this commitment, our agency will assist individuals who have a disability with any reasonable accommodation requests related to employment, including completing the application process, interviewing, completing any pre-employment testing, participating in the employee selection process, and/or to perform essential job functions where the requested accommodation does not impose an undue hardship. If you have a disability and require reasonable accommodation to ensure you have a positive experience applying or interviewing for this position, please direct your inquiries to Jori Dovey, People & Culture Manager, jori.dovey@judicial.state.co.us.

Compensation

We are proud of our equity-conscious pay scale for all positions, providing livable wages, robust benefits, and meaningful time-off policies.

This position's initial hiring pay range is $72,261 to $83,100. For equity, the pay for this position (and all Bridges positions) is based upon the cost of living adjustment for the Denver metro area. Actual compensation offered will be determined based on prior experience, education, knowledge, skills, and abilities relevant to the position. As a person grows in this role, the full pay range is currently $72,261 to $97,552.

In addition, we offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes health, dental, and vision coverage for spouses, families, and domestic partners; employer-paid basic life and AD&D insurance and short and long-term disability insurance; Public Employee Retirement Association (PERA) benefits; family and parental leave benefits; generous paid time off. Get further information about State of Colorado employee benefits. 
We also offer professional and career development opportunities, including clinical supervision toward relevant licensure. A cell phone will be provided, along with a hybrid work arrangement when feasible for your position’s responsibilities. Each employee will receive a laptop for their home office or travel for work. All employees will also receive exclusive parking at a discounted rate in the Ralph Carr Judicial building for easy access to the in-person meetings in Denver.

How to Apply

You will be required to provide the following documents: 

• Resume
• Cover letter
• A list of three references with contact information (2 of 3 must be professional)

Incomplete applications will not be considered. Faxed, mailed, or emailed applications will not be accepted unless you are instructed to do so. Please direct any additional inquiries or questions to bridges@judicial.state.co.us.

If you are offered employment, the following are the conditions of employment:

• Be a current resident of the State of Colorado or become a resident of the State of Colorado within 30 days of the hire date;
• Have reliable transportation to meet your position’s travel requirements; 
• Ability to work remotely, in an office setting, and travel throughout Colorado or region, depending on the position’s responsibilities; 
• Be willing to submit to a routine background investigation, including a criminal history check; 
• If hired, the Immigration Reform and Control Act requires you to provide proof of your eligibility to work in the United States within three (3) workdays of your start date.

Bridges of Colorado is an equal opportunity employer committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion of all voices in the workplace. We consider applicants equally and do not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, age, religion, social class, national origin, marital or parental status, pregnancy, disability status, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, veteran status, or political affiliation. We are committed to fostering a culture of inclusion and an environment of representation of diversity. We highly encourage individuals of all identities, backgrounds, and experiences to apply.

A State of Colorado Employer

Apply Now

Bridges is hiring approximately 10 Senior Court Liaisons across the state to support justice involved individuals experiencing severe and persistent mental illness. 

Position Purpose

Legislation creating Bridges of Colorado speaks to the disparities typically experienced by individuals with significant mental and/or behavioral health challenges, including mental health disabilities, who are also involved in the criminal justice system and tasks the program with promoting positive outcomes for participants. Court Liaisons are generalists, boundary spanners, and creative problem solvers who work to identify need and help connect participants to appropriate services, in part by addressing the multitude of complex barriers that exist for participants.  Court Liaisons are assigned by district or region of the State and support Bridges participants in gaining access to meaningful services and resources with a person-centered, trauma-informed, and socially-just approach.

This critical role also liaises with the relevant criminal justice, behavioral health, and support service entities to support decision-making and actions that take into consideration the participants’ behavioral health best interests.  Court Liaisons function as court-appointed experts, providing a broader base of information for legal problem-solving and decision-making.  They inform courts and attorneys of participant need, available community-based services, and individual and systemic barriers and related solutions.  While liaisons are neutral in legal proceedings, they advocate for the best interests of the participant’s behavioral health both in and out of the court setting.  

A Senior Court Liaison will carry a specialized caseload, provide a lead function to other Court Liaisons on their regional team, carry a high level of knowledge about regional and statewide Participant resources, and support other Court Liaisons and the Regional Manager in high-need/complexity situations, educational efforts, and community-based initiatives in a specialty or geographical area.

Reports to Regional Manager.

Position Location and Travel Requirements

This position works in a hybrid, work-from-home base blended with regular regional and/or state travel, depending on the particular assignment.  This position will be responsible for providing court liaison services to a specifically assigned region in Colorado.  Applicants will have the opportunity to select the region(s) for which they are applying upon application.  The court liaison may be assigned to a specific district within the region, or they may be assigned to provide coverage throughout the region. The senior court liaison is expected to travel and work within the area(s) they support as needed on a weekly and often daily basis. Occasional travel to the Bridges office in Denver is to be expected. Reliable transportation is required.

Essential Functions

Person-Centered

• Provide ongoing, personalized engagement with participants through person-centered, solution-focused case management. 
• Identify and address the needs of participants, including their behavioral health history and needs, social determinants of health needs, and cultural considerations.
• Determine appropriate, meaningful, and culturally responsive referral and treatment options. Identify existing programs, community agencies, and payor sources (such as Medicaid) to support participant engagement with the most appropriate services.
• Make direct connections to, and support engagement with, a wide range of services for Participants, including, but not limited to, inpatient, outpatient, and out-of-custody competency evaluations and/or restoration services, case management services, behavioral health services or psychiatric services or supports, and employment, housing, and other social supports. 
• Actively support Participant engagement with these services, including addressing barriers, adapting initial case plans to meet any changing needs of the Participant, engaging family and other support systems when relevant, and providing advocacy when necessary.
• Track activity on cases through accurate and timely case noting and recording of information in the Bridges case management system and other related systems, including relevant outcomes.
• Identify, through a variety of mechanisms, individuals who have not been appointed a court liaison but for whom an appointment to Bridges may be beneficial and make recommendations to the Court for appointment of a court liaison.
• As needed, continue to serve Participants for up to 90 days after final disposition of the case for which the court liaison was appointed.
• Engage in all aspects of work in ways that humanize Participants, including practicing trauma-informed care, culturally competent responses, and providing advocacy when Participant well-being is at significant risk.
• Approach all responsibilities with Participants, families, stakeholders, and team members according to the values, models, standards, and best practices of Bridges of Colorado.
• Support Bridges team culture and values.

Solution-Focused

• Inform judicial officers and attorneys (via reports to the court and appearances at court hearings) in a timely manner about Participant needs regarding mental health, social determinants of health, and equitable access to related services, including community-based services.
• Inform judicial officers and attorneys in a timely manner about:
  • Available and appropriate behavioral health services and supports, competency evaluations, restoration to competency services, and other relevant decisions, barriers, and issues facing individuals with behavioral health conditions who are involved with the criminal justice system.
  • Available community-based services for the Participant in a case, and, if applicable, case planning for possible release from custody.
  • Other criminal or juvenile justice diversion programs for Participants, which may include alternatives to competency services, prosecution, and custody or confinement; if a Participant is convicted, alternatives to sentences to confinement that continue to promote public safety and Participant stability; and other diversion-oriented programs, including problem-solving courts, competency dockets, treatment, sober, or supportive housing, and peer mentor programs.
• Act as a resource for Court and Parties to the case.  (The court liaison shall not be an independent party in a case nor serve in a role intended to monitor compliance with a court order by a Party or other person associated with a case.)
• Submit all required reports to the court on time and attend hearings as necessary or requested.
• Provide data as requested by the Bridges leadership team promptly.
• Identify gaps or areas of need in the local or state network of behavioral health services and work with Bridges leadership to pursue solutions.
• Participate in onboarding, education, communities of practice, team meetings, and professional development opportunities as recommended or required by Bridges leadership.
• Advocate for the behavioral health best interests of Participants with judicial officers and attorneys by engaging the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, and legal neutrality.
   

Collaborative

• Foster collaboration and communication between behavioral health and criminal justice systems in ways that promote positive outcomes and ensure Participants are treated fairly and humanely, regardless of their behavioral health history or mental state.
• Work with judicial officers, attorneys, jails, hospitals, and service providers to address system gaps and barriers and promote positive outcomes for Participants in assigned cases.
• Coordinate with behavioral health (including the Office of Civil and Forensic Mental Health) and other providers to ensure continuity of care and address barriers to successful engagement for Participants. 
• Coordinate with hospitals and jail-based behavioral health providers to ensure continuity of care and service delivery at both entrance and exit for Participants, striving to problem-solve gaps and barriers as necessary.
• Provide non-case-specific consultation to criminal justice personnel regarding behavioral health and community treatment options.
• Identify and strengthen relationships and referral processes with existing community resources. 
• Coordinate with service providers, including the Office of Civil and Forensic Mental Health and jail-based behavioral health providers, to ensure continuity of care and service delivery and in a manner that avoids duplication and bifurcation of services.
• Provide informal and non-case-specific consultation, education, and advocacy with all stakeholders in order to address systemic barriers across both the behavioral health and criminal justice systems.
• As needed, assist with formal judicial and attorney education within assigned district(s).
• Advocate for the behavioral health best interests of Participants across systems by engaging the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, and legal neutrality.

No direct supervisory duties.  May provide formal mentorship, coaching, and education to individuals in the Bridges Leadership-in-Training program.

Additional Senior Court Liaison Responsibilities

• Carry participant caseloads that will typically be smaller and with higher levels of mental health acuity or case complexity.
• Accompany other court liaisons on home visits as needed.
• Engage in specific projects/assignments to support Bridges team culture and values.
• Along with coverage liaisons, may provide coverage during vacancies, extended leave, or support liaisons with high caseloads/waitlists.
• Function as a resource expert across the assigned district(s) and region.
• Provide lead function, mentoring, shadowing, or explaining work instructions to other court liaisons across assigned district(s) or region. 
• Provide court liaison essential functions across multiple districts in a region in accordance with regional team priorities as identified by court liaison regional manager.
• Support regional manager in providing judicial and attorney education across districts in a region with education materials, strategies, and priorities identified by Bridges leadership.
• Support court liaison regional manager in addressing community-based gaps, barriers, problem-solving, and initiating needs-based projects and solutions across districts in a region in alignment with education materials, strategies, and priorities identified by Bridges leadership.

This is a dynamic and new position where duties will evolve, and the position should anticipate fulfilling other duties as assigned that are reasonable and necessary to fulfill the Bridges mission.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Fluency in the professional language, best practices, and processes of both systems.
• Clinical understanding of the behavioral health needs/complexities, aligned approaches, and impacts of symptoms on individuals operating at the intersection of behavioral health and criminal justice systems.
• Ability and experience with where/how/when to connect relevant behavioral health services and resources to support individual participants' behavioral health needs.
• Thorough understanding of Bridges best practices and a proven ability to following them in daily work. 
• Ability to discern when questions or situations arise that need to be vetted with a supervisor and a demonstrated willingness to complete the proper vetting by collaborating with both direct reports and up to leadership.
• Working experience navigating competency evaluations, restoration to competency services, and other relevant decisions, barriers, and issues facing individuals with behavioral health conditions who are involved with the criminal justice system.
• Knowledge of related criminal or juvenile justice diversion programs, which may include alternatives to competency services, prosecution, and custody or confinement; if a participant is convicted, alternatives to sentences to confinement; and other diversion-oriented programs, including problem-solving courts, competency dockets, treatment, sober, or supportive housing, and peer mentor programs.
• Person-centered, solutions-focused, and collaborative and are deeply committed to justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion. Value individualized solutions and responses that are meaningful to the participant and their well-being.
• Value individualized solutions and responses that are meaningful to the participant and their well-being.
• Knowledge and experience of interpersonal trauma-informed approaches and systems of care, specifically understanding the importance of being person-centered, solutions-focused, and collaborative in this work.
• Able to communicate and collaborate with varying levels of positions of power and manage conflict proactively and responsively with professionalism, confidentiality, clarity, and effectiveness.
• Creative, self-motivated, and able to work and make decisions independently in a decentralized environment without close supervision.
• Client-driven and values-driven.
• Aligned with Bridges’ culture and passionate about supporting it throughout the organization.
• Capable of, and enjoys, thriving in a fast-paced, multi-tasking environment with thoughtful decision-making skills.
• Emotional intelligence; able to create and sustain helpful, professional work relationships thoughtfully and responsively with empathy, respect, and collaboration.
   

Minimum Qualifications

• Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor’s degree in social justice, social work, sociology, criminology, or a related field.
• Candidates must have a minimum of four (4+) years’ experience in criminal justice, behavioral health, or related field.
• Demonstrated professional alignment with Bridges values, culture, and principles of justice and equity throughout the organization. 

OR

• At least two (2+) years as an employee or contractor with Bridges may substitute for the minimum qualifications above, with additional specialized training that may be required upon hire.
• Certain education, volunteer experience, or internship experience in a related field may be considered in lieu of part of this requirement, as well as successful completion of the Bridges Liaison-in-Training program. 

Preferred Qualifications

• Graduation from an accredited college or university with a master’s degree in social justice, social work, sociology, criminology, or a related field.
• Six or more (6+) years’ experience in criminal justice, behavioral health, or related field.
• Hold a current license in Colorado as an LCSW, LMFT, LPC, and/or LAC.
• Demonstrated continuing education, advocacy, or volunteer work in DEI, JEDI, or social justice principles. Lived experience will also be considered.
• Spanish speaking is a plus, and levels of proficiency will be considered in an employee’s pay.
• Work experience in both criminal justice and behavioral health, including experience with the competency system.

Work Environment

Outside the home workspace, the noise level in the work environment is variable. This position is subject to varying and unpredictable situations; may handle emergency or crisis situations; is subject to many interruptions; may handle multiple calls, emails, and verbal inquiries simultaneously.

Accommodations

The Bridges Office is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. As part of this commitment, our agency will assist individuals who have a disability with any reasonable accommodation requests related to employment, including completing the application process, interviewing, completing any pre-employment testing, participating in the employee selection process, and/or to perform essential job functions where the requested accommodation does not impose an undue hardship. If you have a disability and require reasonable accommodation to ensure you have a positive experience applying or interviewing for this position, please direct your inquiries to Jori Dovey, People & Culture Manager, jori.dovey@judicial.state.co.us.

Compensation

We are proud of our equity-conscious pay scale for all positions, providing livable wages, robust benefits, and meaningful time-off policies.

This position's initial hiring pay range is $79,391 to $91,300. For equity, the pay for this position (and all Bridges positions) is based upon the cost-of-living adjustment for the Denver metro area. Actual compensation offered will be determined based on prior experience, education, knowledge, skills, and abilities relevant to the position. As a person grows in this role, the full pay range is currently $79,391 to $107,178.

In addition, we offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes health, dental, and vision coverage for spouses, families, and domestic partners; employer-paid basic life and AD&D insurance and short and long-term disability insurance; Public Employee Retirement Association (PERA) benefits; family and parental leave benefits; generous paid time off. Get further information about State of Colorado employee benefits.

We also offer professional and career development opportunities, including clinical supervision toward relevant licensure. A cell phone will be provided, along with a hybrid work arrangement when feasible for your position’s responsibilities. Each employee will receive a laptop for their home office or travel for work. All employees will also receive exclusive parking at a discounted rate in the Ralph Carr Judicial building for easy access to the in-person meetings in Denver.

How to Apply

You will be required to provide the following documents: 

• Resume
• Cover letter
• A list of three references with contact information (2 of 3 must be professional)

Incomplete applications will not be considered. Faxed, mailed, or emailed applications will not be accepted unless you are instructed to do so. Please direct any additional inquiries or questions to bridges@judicial.state.co.us.

If you are offered employment, the following are the conditions of employment:

• Be a current resident of the State of Colorado or become a resident of the State of Colorado within 30 days of the hire date;
• Have reliable transportation to meet your position’s travel requirements; 
• Ability to work remotely, in an office setting, and travel throughout Colorado or region, depending on the position’s responsibilities; 
• Be willing to submit to a routine background investigation, including a criminal history check; 
• If hired, the Immigration Reform and Control Act requires you to provide proof of your eligibility to work in the United States within three (3) workdays of your start date.

Bridges of Colorado is an equal opportunity employer committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion of all voices in the workplace. We consider applicants equally and do not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, age, religion, social class, national origin, marital or parental status, pregnancy, disability status, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, veteran status, or political affiliation. We are committed to fostering a culture of inclusion and an environment of representation of diversity. We highly encourage individuals of all identities, backgrounds, and experiences to apply.

A State of Colorado Employer

Apply Now

Position Purpose

As an integral member of the leadership team and the organization’s administrative and financial systems expert, the administrative director maintains and progresses Bridges’ operations as a national leader of programs at the intersection of behavioral health and criminal justice. They directly supervise and support a team encompassing the administration of financial systems, human resources, information technology, office space and equipment, and compliance reporting.

Position Location and Travel Requirements

All Bridges employees work in a hybrid, work-from-home base blended with state or regional travel depending on the employee’s position requirements. Reliable transportation is required.

Essential Functions

Person-Centered

• Support Bridges team in providing effective and meaningful services for participants through person-centered, solution-focused, and collaborative practices within the administrative and financial functions of the Office.
• Supervise administrative program manager and other administrative positions as the Office grows. Responsibilities include training, planning, assigning, and directing work; quality control and priority management; and delivery of supervision and support to the administrative team. Leads or provides input into and participates in discipline, dismissal, and hiring processes.
• Lead the administrative team with a focus on innovation and support of methods and processes for meaningful resources and experiences for all Bridges employees.
• Identify areas for professional development of the administrative team’s employees for optimal personal performance and sustained engagement and retention. Manage direct reports and support their professional development with a whole-person approach.
• Support the leadership and liaison teams in innovatively centering the voices and experiences of participants and employees via administrative development and sustaining equitable and ethical operations.
• Engage in all aspects of work with team members and community partners according to the values, models, standards, and best practices of Bridges of Colorado.
• Support Bridges team culture and values.

Solution-Focused

• Support Bridges team by providing long- and short-term strategic and operational leadership of the Office's administrative functions and needs, including fiscal, human resources, information technology, and office space.
• Create and direct innovative solutions and continuous improvement strategies to enhance administrative support services.
• Develop and implement fiscal rules, procedures, and internal controls to ensure consistent and efficient administrative services within broader regulatory, statutory, and constitutional requirements.
• Review and analyze financial reports, trends, and variances to inform operational decision-making with the executive director, ensuring that all recommendations and decisions comply with Judicial fiscal rules and state law.
• Provide oversight of the review and approval of all bills and expenses incurred by the Office and submission to Judicial Accounting for processing of timely payment. Ensure that all payments comply with state law and that Judicial fiscal rules are followed.
• Prepare, analyze, and provide monthly budget monitoring updates and budget management strategies to the executive director.
• Meet all budget-related deadlines whether established in statute or by the Judicial budget office. Prepare the Office’s annual budget submission, budget requests, supplemental requests, figure-setting, budget-related legislative issues, and legislative responses to requests for fiscal analyses.
• Direct the policies and processes for any solicitations and contracts for purchases by the Office, ensuring that all purchases comply with Judicial fiscal rules and state law.
• Development and oversight of a procurement management policy, process, and system for the Office, ensuring that they all comply with Judicial fiscal rules and state law, including maintaining appropriate documentation.
• Develop and provide oversight of the Office’s applicant and personnel systems and records, in accordance with the Office’s personnel rules, state law, and federal regulations.
• Maintain and secure confidential personnel records of employees, including job descriptions, employment letters, I-9 documentation and other onboarding materials, benefits enrollment and terminations, workspace agreements, personnel actions, and employee IDs, position numbers, and necessary personal information according to state and federal laws and regulations.
• Oversee the processing of payroll with funds appropriated by the General Assembly for the Office, or in the cash fund created pursuant to C.R.S. § 13-95-108 resulting from gifts, grants, or donations that may be received by the Office. Confirm and approve – or submit to the executive director for approval – all payroll changes and data input. Maintain documentation as required by personnel rules and state and federal law.
• Stay current with personnel rules, policies, laws, and other rules and regulations regarding Office and state benefits. Provide oversight and develop processes to ensure employees are sufficiently informed of benefits available to them and are assisted with benefits enrollment, application, notification, and enrollment and termination. Maintain and secure all related employee information per state and federal law.
• Provide oversight of the Office’s leave-tracking requests, processes, and system. Provide education and training to Office employees and supervisors on best practices and use of the system and associated legal requirements.
• Supervise the Office’s criminal history background check (CHC) process, including document retention. Provide education and training to Office employees and supervisors on policies and procedures for conducting CHC’s.
• Provide oversight and guidance on Office personnel matters related to workers’ rights including, but not limited to, workers’ compensation, short- and long-term disability, Family Medical Leave Act matters, Family and Medical Leave Insurance matters, and Americans with Disabilities Act matters. Provide education and training to Office employees and supervisors on policies and procedures for related employee requests.
• Stay current and provide oversight and guidance for all wage and hour law compliance and overtime calculations.
• Oversee the Office’s information technology systems and IT contracts supporting those systems and make recommendations for best solutions and innovations to support the needs of the Office, including website maintenance, IT systems, equipment, servers, network, software, and cyber security. Ensure that Office employees receive sufficient education and tools to support their technology needs and successful engagement with the Office’s IT technology, systems, and equipment.
• Oversee the appropriate use of Judicial’s Colorado State Courts Data Access System (CSCDA), including gathering and maintaining the appropriate paperwork from employees and providing guidance on appropriate use of access and compliance with Judicial’s Acceptable Use Policy.

Collaborative

• Strategize and collaborate with the executive director, leadership team, and legislative and other external partners to provide ethical, financially sound systems and operational best practices for stability, growth, and innovation within the Office. 
• Provide operational knowledge and guidance of the public sector with a comprehensive understanding of independent agency operations working within compliance systems that include internal controls and legal requirements.
• With the executive director, manage a budget of at least $14 million to drive Office operations and initiatives. Oversee financial processes, internal controls, and budget development, justification, and presentations to relevant decision-making bodies.
• Develop and maintain professional relationships for close collaboration with partner entities, stakeholders, and the Colorado Legislature.
• Create or assist with developing and implementing rules, policies, procedures, and programs to ensure efficient operations and provide financial, human resources, and IT support to the Leadership team and all employees.
• Oversight of administrative human resources: develop and implement rules, policies, procedures, and programs to ensure efficient operations and provide administrative, and transactional human resources support to the organization and its employees.
• Develop and issue regular communication and updates to internal Office staff with administrative, financial, and human resources processes.
• Prepare annual budget schedules for the Office’s annual budget submissions.  Prepare strategic plan documents, Colorado SMART Act documents, long-range financial plan documents, budget summary narratives, and other supporting documents for inclusion in the annual budget submission.
• Prepare budget schedules and supporting information for the executive director’s communication with the General Assembly’s JBC, its staff, staff of the General Assembly, and staff of the Office of State Planning and Budget.
• Prepare or assist in preparing responses for the executive director to Joint Budget Committee (JBC) briefing/hearing questions, footnotes, and requests for information to JBC staff and coordinate with JBC staff concerning scheduling the Office’s hearing before the JBC.
• Engage with Judicial and ASIA to provide the Office with accounting support, including processing payments in the State Accounting System (CORE), vendor management in CORE, initiating accounting transactions directed by the Office, issuance and management of Office and employee PCARDS, maintaining account coding structure, and providing accounting related support.
• Engage with Judicial and ASIA to provide the Office with procurement advisement and support.
• Develop, maintain, and oversee guidelines for the secure submission of reports to the court and collaborate with Judicial on the eventual development of e-filing.
• Work with the executive director, members of the leadership team, and regional managers to identify and create solutions for office space needs of Bridges, both centrally in Denver and in regions as needs are identified.
• Comply and assist with auditing requests, as directed by the executive director or Bridges Commission.
• Provide leadership for, development of, or participation in onboarding, education, communities of practice, team meetings, and professional development opportunities as recommended or required by Bridges leadership.
• Provide staff support to the Bridges Commission, as needed.
• Develop and engage in specific projects and assignments to support Bridges executive director and leadership team.

Will provide direct supervision of administrative employees.

Other Responsibilities

This is a dynamic and new position where the scope of responsibilities and duties will evolve, and the incumbent should anticipate fulfilling other duties as assigned that are reasonable and necessary to fulfill the Bridges mission. The ideal candidate for this role will not only possess the ability to fulfill the outlined duties but will also be a proactive, adaptable, and capable contributor to the development of the role's scope and responsibilities, aligning them with the evolving needs of the Office.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

The ideal candidate is passionate about working to improve the systems of care for those caught in the intersection of behavioral health and the criminal justice system.

• Person-centered, solution-focused, collaborative, and deeply committed to justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion.
• Client-driven and values-driven.
• Aligned with Bridges’ culture and passionate about supporting it throughout the organization.
• Capable of, and enjoys, thriving in a fast-paced, multi-tasking environment with thoughtful decision-making skills.
• Creative, self-motivated, and able to work in a decentralized environment without close supervision.
• The ability to communicate and collaborate with varying levels of positions of power and manage conflict proactively and responsively with confidentiality.
• Emotional intelligence; able to create and sustain helpful, professional work relationships thoughtfully and responsively with empathy, respect, and collaboration.
•  Expert-level knowledge and skill in government-related budgeting, purchasing, and accounting practices and systems, and ethics.
• Exceptional ability to translate financial and accounting acumen to financial and non-financial audiences.
• General knowledge of human resources-related issues, practices, and systems in order to oversee HR transactional responsibilities, projects, and tasks.
• Familiarity with information technology needs and project management with the ability to supervise IT initiatives, projects, and related contracts and contractors.
• Strategic insight into identifying emerging opportunities, effectively navigating challenges, and adapting with agility and foresight.
• Knowledge of human resources process management, including pertinent federal and state laws and regulations relating to employment and protections; staff recruitment; employee management and retention; leadership; and staff learning and development.

Minimum Qualifications

Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor's degree in the liberal arts and sciences, judicial administration, public administration, business administration, human resources development, or related fields.

• At least seven (7+) years of experience in business administrative leadership, encompassing human resources, information technology, finance, and ethics.
• At least three (3+) years of direct employment supervision with staff oversight of human resources processes, practices, and compliance.
• Highly developed financial acumen and demonstrated continuing education in general and governmental accounting practices, fiscal rules, and compliance oversight of systems, processes, and practices.
• Experience with developing fiscal rules, implementing internal financial controls, and compelling consistent procedures for ethical and legally compliant financial processes.
• Direct complex budget development, management, and reporting experience. 
• Experience with contract management of information technology services and contractors.
• Proficient communication skills for building professional relationships, advocating for the Office, and collaborating with internal and external partners.
• Demonstrated understanding and passion for the populations Bridges serves in order to be innovative in the delivery of participants’ needs.
  OR
• At least two (2+) years as an employee or contractor with Bridges may substitute for the minimum qualifications above, with additional specialized training that may be required upon hire.
• Years of relevant work experience may substitute for the educational requirement with the exception of any required licenses, certifications, or accreditations.

Preferred Qualifications

Graduation from an accredited college or university with a master’s degree in a related field.

• At least ten (10+) years of experience in business administrative leadership, encompassing human resources, information technology, finance, and ethics.
• At least five (5+) years of direct employment supervision.
• Strong collaborative relationships with governmental payroll, personnel, and related systems.
• Resource or budgetary advocacy and reporting experience with state governments.
• Leadership skills in building a unit/department from the ground up while inspiring employees to achieve exceptional results.

Work Environment

Outside the home workspace, the noise level in the work environment is variable. This position is subject to varying and unpredictable situations; may handle emergency or crisis situations; is subject to many interruptions; may handle multiple calls, emails, and verbal inquiries simultaneously.

Accommodations

The Bridges Office is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. As part of this commitment, our agency will assist individuals who have a disability with any reasonable accommodation requests related to employment, including completing the application process, interviewing, completing any pre-employment testing, participating in the employee selection process, and/or to perform essential job functions where the requested accommodation does not impose an undue hardship. If you have a disability and require reasonable accommodation to ensure you have a positive experience applying or interviewing for this position, please direct your inquiries to Jori Dovey, People & Culture Manager, jori.dovey@judicial.state.co.us.

Compensation

We are proud of our equity-conscious pay scale for all positions, providing livable wages, robust benefits, and meaningful time-off policies.

This position's initial hiring pay range is $129,913 to $149,400. For equity, the pay for this position (and all Bridges positions) is based upon the cost of living adjustment for the Denver metro area. Actual compensation offered will be determined based on prior experience, education, knowledge, skills, and abilities relevant to the position. As a person grows in this role, the full pay range is currently $129,913 to $175,383.

In addition, we offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes health, dental, and vision coverage for spouses, families, and domestic partners; employer-paid basic life and AD&D insurance and short and long-term disability insurance; Public Employee Retirement Association (PERA) benefits; family and parental leave benefits; generous paid time off. Click here for further information about State of Colorado employee benefits. 

We also offer professional and career development opportunities, including clinical supervision toward relevant licensure. A cell phone will be provided, along with a hybrid work arrangement when feasible for your position’s responsibilities. Each employee will receive a laptop for their home office or travel for work. All employees will also receive exclusive parking at a discounted rate in the Ralph Carr Judicial building for easy access to the in-person meetings in Denver.

How to Apply

You will be required to provide the following documents: 

• Resume
• Cover letter
• Three references with contact information (2 of 3 must be professional)

Incomplete applications will not be considered. Faxed, mailed, or emailed applications will not be accepted unless you are instructed to do so. Please direct any additional inquiries or questions to jori.dovey@bridgesofcolorado.gov.

If you are offered employment, the following are the conditions of employment:

• Be a current resident of the State of Colorado or become a resident of the State of Colorado within 30 days of the hire date;
• Have reliable transportation to meet your position’s travel requirements; 
• Ability to work remotely, in an office setting, and travel throughout Colorado or region, depending on the position’s responsibilities; 
• Be willing to submit to a routine background investigation, including a criminal history check; 
• If hired, the Immigration Reform and Control Act requires you to provide proof of your eligibility to work in the United States within three (3) workdays of your start date.

Bridges of Colorado is an equal-opportunity employer committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion of all voices in the workplace. We consider applicants equally and do not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, age, religion, social class, national origin, marital or parental status, pregnancy, disability status, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, veteran status, or political affiliation. We are committed to fostering a culture of inclusion and an environment of representation of diversity. We highly encourage individuals of all identities, backgrounds, and experiences to apply.

A State of Colorado Employer

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