Program Director Jobs in Lowell, MA (NOW HIRING)

Cooperative for Human Services Inc. (CHS) is dedicated to supporting individuals with developmental and behavioral health needs in living meaningful, self-directed lives in their communities. Our programs focus on person-centered supports, community integration, and building strong natural support networks for the people we serve.

The Program Director is responsible for the overall management and quality of services within an assigned residential program. This role provides direct supervision to the Assistant Program Director and Direct Support staff while ensuring high-quality, person-centered services for the individuals supported.

The Program Director oversees program operations including staffing, clinical coordination, medication administration systems, regulatory compliance, budgeting, and healthcare coordination. This position also maintains strong communication with families, guardians, clinical providers, and regulatory agencies to ensure services meet the highest standards of care.

• Provide day-to-day leadership and operational oversight of an assigned program.
• Ensure services are delivered in accordance with CHS policies and applicable state regulations.
• Monitor program quality and ensure adherence to organizational mission, philosophy, and values.
• Maintain program documentation and records in compliance with regulatory requirements.

• Supervise the Assistant Program Director and Direct Support staff.
• Manage staffing patterns and schedules to ensure appropriate coverage and required staffing ratios.
• Participate in recruitment, interviewing, and hiring of staff.
• Establish performance expectations and conduct regular employee evaluations.
• Provide coaching, training, and professional development opportunities to team members.

• Advocate for the rights, dignity, and well-being of each person served.
• Support the development and implementation of Individual Support Plans (ISPs)
• Monitor progress toward individual goals and ensure services reflect person-centered values.
• Participate in transition planning for individuals entering or leaving services.

• Oversee medication administration systems to ensure compliance with CHS policy and state regulations.
• Coordinate healthcare services and clinical supports for individuals served.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable local, state, and federal regulations.

• Participate in the development of program budgets.
• Monitor and manage program funds and individual funds responsibly.
• Generate required statistical and narrative reports.

• Serve as a liaison between individuals served, family members, guardians, providers, and community stakeholders.
• Promote community inclusion and opportunities for individuals to build natural support networks.

• 24/7 emergency on-call to support program operations as needed.

Requirements

Education & Experience

• Associate's degree in a related human services field and at least one year of experience in a social service or human services organization
• Bachelor's degree preferred
• Minimum of one year of supervisory or management experience
• MAP Certification required

Alternative Qualifications

• High school diploma with four years of experience working in developmental disabilities services

Skills & Requirements

• Strong leadership and staff supervision skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication
• Knowledge of community-based human services supports
• Ability to manage multiple operational responsibilities
• Valid driver's license required

This role involves a dynamic work environment that includes:

• Residential program settings
• Community locations
• Office and administrative work

The position requires a combination of standing, walking, and sitting throughout the day and the ability to lift up to 30 pounds with reasonable accommodation.

At Cooperative for Human Services, you will work alongside passionate professionals dedicated to empowering individuals and strengthening communities. We value collaboration, innovation, and person-centered care.