Adult Day Program Director Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

At Dungarvin, we are more than a provider of support services—we’re a mission-driven team rooted in respect, inclusion, and person-centered care. Since 1976, we’ve been dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including those with mental health, behavioral, or complex medical needs.

About the Role:

We’re currently hiring a Program Director for our Rohnert Park Day Program, a unique community-based service site that supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

This is an operational leadership role, not an administrative or clinical-only position. This is not a desk job. It is a visible, lead-from-the-front, hands-on leadership role that requires strong presence, resilience, and real experience supporting individuals with complex behaviors.

You will be actively involved in the day-to-day operations of a high-behavior program, including being physically present on the floor, supporting staff during escalations, and modeling expectations in real time. The individuals served may exhibit behaviors such as physical aggression, self-injurious behavior, elopement, and property destruction.

This role requires a leader who can step into challenging situations, maintain composure, and guide their team through them. Your staff will look to you for direction, accountability, and support. Success in this role comes from leading by example, building trust through action, and creating a structured, consistent environment for both staff and the individuals we serve.

Wage & Benefits

• Starting Salary: $80,000
• Full Wage Scale: $80,000 to $89,169.70 (Future increases within the posted range are based on tenure and performance per Dungarvin’s compensation guidelines.)
• This role offers strong growth potential within Dungarvin for leaders who demonstrate the ability to stabilize and lead complex programs.
• Medical, Vision and Dental Insurance for eligible employees
• Supplemental Insurance
• Flex Spending and HSA Accounts for eligible employees
• Pet Insurance
• Life Insurance for eligible employees
• 401 K plan with up to  3% employer match for eligible employees
• PAID TIME OFF (PTO) for eligible employees
• Growth and Development Opportunities
• Employee Referral Program
• Employee Assistance Program
• National Brand Discounts
• Tapcheck - early pay access
• PAID training and orientation

What You'll Do

As a Program Director, you'll be responsible for the full operation of the program, including:  

• Lead daily operations, staffing, scheduling, payroll, budget oversight, and service delivery for a high-needs adult day program
• Provide hands-on leadership by being present on the floor, coaching staff, and stepping in during high-behavior situations
• Train, develop, and hold staff accountable to performance expectations
• Develop engaging, workshop-style activities that promote independence and life skills
• Implement person-centered service plans and behavior support strategies
• Support behavioral interventions and model best practices in real time
• Ensure compliance with Title 17, Title 22, Community Care Licensing standards, internal policies, and all regulatory guidelines
• Maintain accurate documentation and oversee audits and quality assurance efforts
• Partner with Regional Center, Community Care Licensing, families, residential providers, and other community partners
• Manage program performance, staffing stability, and overall environment
• Oversee budget expectations, payroll, and program expenses
• Build and maintain a culture of accountability, engagement, and consistency

Skills & Competencies

• Experience leading teams in licensed programs such as Adult Day Programs, Residential programs, EBHS, Level 4 homes, or similar high-behavior settings
• Strong understanding of behavioral intervention, trauma-informed care, and person-centered planning
• Working knowledge of compliance, audits, and regulatory expectations
• Ability to manage operations, staffing, and documentation simultaneously
• Comfortable addressing performance concerns and holding staff accountable
• Leads by example and is willing to be physically present and engaged in the program

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a human services OR equivalent experience
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in a human services delivery system
• Minimum of 1 year of supervisory or leadership experience, with direct oversight of staff (experience managing larger teams of 10+ employees is strongly preferred)
• At least 2 years of experience or training in one of the following:
  • Care and supervision of individuals with intellectual & developmental disabilities in a adult day program OR residential facility/home.
• Experience with high-level behaviors in settings like crisis homes, Level 4, or EBHS facilities strongly preferred
• Experience working with Regional Centers, Community Care Licensing, and knowledge of Title 22 and Title 17 regulations
• Experience with ISP/IPP development and behavior support plans.  
• Valid driver’s license with acceptable driving record
• Must be able to lift and transfer up to 50 pounds
• High digital literacy, proficient in Microsoft Office Suite with strong verbal and written communication skills.

What Will Set You Apart

• Direct experience in a licensed Adult Day Program or similar environment
• Experience leading high-behavior or crisis-based programs
• Strong background in staff coaching, performance management, and accountability
• Willingness and ability to work alongside staff during escalations and day-to-day operations
  Demonstrated ownership of program operations, staffing, and overall performance

Hours:

• Full-time exempt position (40 hours per week).
• Schedule must have flexibility to accommodate program, individual, and staff needs

We believe in supporting not only those we serve but also each other, ensuring a collaborative and supportive work environment for all. Dungarvin is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, protected veteran status, disability, genetic information, national origin, age, gender identity, sexual orientation, or any legally protected status per federal and/or state law.

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