Description
Department: Residential Services
Employment Type: Exempt
Reports To: Program Director of Residential and Day Habilitation Services
This is a Human Services leadership role supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in New Jersey. Candidates must have experience working within DDD-regulated residential programs. This is not an IT or corporate program management role.
The Program Manager is responsible for oversight, coordination, staffing, compliance, and quality assurance of assigned residential programs. This role ensures alignment with person-centered practices, organizational standards, and New Jersey Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) requirements.
This position includes participation in an on-call rotation to support program operations, staffing needs, and emergency response outside of standard business hours.
Requirements
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Oversee daily operations of assigned residential homes and programs
Ensure compliance with all New Jersey DDD regulations, licensing, and service standards
Supervise, coach, and develop Direct Support Professionals and supervisory staff
Monitor staffing levels and collaborate with Recruitment and HR on vacancies
Ensure completion and accuracy of documentation, ISP implementation, and service delivery
Conduct routine site visits, internal audits, and quality assurance reviews
Maintain continuous audit readiness across all assigned programs
Oversee incident reporting, investigations, and corrective action plans
Coordinate communication with families, guardians, clinical teams, and external stakeholders
Lead staff meetings, performance management, and accountability processes
Ensure staff credentialing compliance, including CPR/First Aid training, and required certifications
Support onboarding, retention, and training initiatives
Participate in on-call rotation and respond to after-hours program needs
Qualifications - Preferred
Experience managing multiple residential programs
Strong audit and compliance leadership experience
Familiarity with electronic health record/documentation systems
Experience with staff development and performance management
Regulatory / Compliance Requirements (DDD)
Must meet all requirements set forth by the New Jersey Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD)
Experience supporting programs under the Community Care Program (CCP) and/or Supports Program
Completion of criminal background checks (state and federal)
Fingerprinting clearance as required
Adult Abuse Record Information (AARI) clearance if applicable
Maintain a valid driver's license and acceptable driving history
Ensure staff maintain CPR/First Aid, Medication Administration, and required DDD trainings
Ensure compliance with Individualized Service Plans (ISPs), documentation, and reporting
Lead programs through audits, inspections, and licensing reviews
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Strong leadership and team development skills
Ability to manage multiple programs and priorities
Strong problem-solving and decision-making ability
Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills
High attention to detail in compliance and documentation
Ability to work in fast-paced, compliance-driven environments
Schedule
Full-time position. Schedule is based on operational needs and includes participation in an on-call rotation, which may require evenings, weekends, and holidays.
Benefits
Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
Health Savings Account (HSA) with employer contribution (if applicable)
Flexible Spending Account (FSA) options
Paid Time Off (PTO) and Paid Holidays
401(k) Retirement Plan with employer match (if applicable)
Company-paid Life Insurance and optional supplemental coverage
Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Professional Development and Training Opportunities
Employee Referral Bonus Program