Description:
Purpose Statement
The Program Support Specialist is a highly versatile and essential role within MICC, providing flexible, skilled coverage across all program areas to ensure seamless, high-quality participant support at all times. This position steps into instructional settings, small group and 1:1 sessions, medication monitoring, behavior support, shuttle transportation, and participant rounds as a support resource โ reinforcing the work of the full-time program team rather than replacing it. The Program Support Specialist maintains the same standard of person-centered care as the broader team and serves as a critical resource for continuity across programming.
Schedule
Monday - Friday 7:45 AM - 4:15 PM
Essential Functions
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Program Coverage and Instructional Support
- Provide flexible, skilled coverage across all MICC program areas as staffing needs arise
- Serve as in-class support alongside Program Instructors, reinforcing instruction, assisting with accommodations, and helping maintain an inclusive environment โ the primary instructional lead remains the assigned Program Instructor
- Follow existing lesson plans, participant support plans, accommodation strategies when filling in across teams
- Support shuttle and transportation needs, accompanying participants during community-based activities as assigned
- Maintain familiarity with all program areas, participant needs, and team expectations to ensure seamless transitions when providing coverage
Medication Monitoring
- Supervise and accurately document the medication monitoring window each shift as acting Medication Coordinator
- Support participants with medication organization, pill box refilling, and prescription refill requests
- Complete required training to prevent medication errors and respond effectively when errors occur
- Partner with Advisors and families to address barriers to medication independence
Participant Rounds and Wellbeing Support
- Conduct scheduled participant rounds to check on participant wellbeing, safety, and needs across residential and program spaces
- Provide responsive support during assigned shifts, addressing participant needs and communicating any concerns to the appropriate staff or Advisor
- Maintain a calm, supportive presence during programming and transition times
Behavior Support and Participant Engagement
- Use a person-centered, strengths-based approach when supporting participants across all settings
- Implement positive behavior supports and de-escalation strategies as needed
- Build rapport quickly with participants and integrate effectively into varying team environments
- Communicate observations and participant needs to the appropriate Advisor or team lead promptly
Documentation and Communication
- Accurately document medication monitoring, attendance, behavior incidents, participant rounds, and all support provided in MICCโs data systems
- Maintain open communication with all teams regarding coverage needs, participant updates, and shift transitions
- Participate in team meetings, Family Weekends, graduations, and program events as needed
- Maintain records in compliance with applicable laws and MICC policies
- Other duties as assigned
Requirements:
Education and Experience
- Bachelorโs degree in Education, Special Education, Social Work, Psychology, Occupational Therapy, Therapeutic Recreation, or a related field preferred
- 2+ years of experience supporting individuals with ASD and/or learning differences preferred
- Experience in medication monitoring, positive behavior supports, or direct care highly desirable
Skills and Abilities
- Highly adaptable with the ability to shift effectively across multiple program areas, roles, and settings within a single day
- Strong instructional and facilitation skills with the ability to step into a classroom or small group session with confidence
- Effective de-escalation, positive behavior support, and interpersonal skills
- Excellent organizational and communication skills, both written and verbal
- Ability to quickly build rapport with participants and integrate into varying team environments
- Commitment to confidentiality and professional ethics
- Valid driverโs license with a clean driving record as determined by MICCโs insurance company, or ability to obtain a Minnesota license within 60 days of hire
- Must reside in Minnesota