Program Specialist

About Us: Tutelage Residential Services is a small for-profit community-based human services agency located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Our agency is wholeheartedly committed to proudly serving and caring for providing support services to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Southwestern Pennsylvania.

Job Overview: The Program Specialist plays a key role in the development of staff and individuals we serve. As the Program Specialist your leadership, clear communication, and execution skills are needed.

Although primarily in the office, this position may not exclusively be in the office. Visits to residential sites are required to ensure health, safety, and consistency of the individuals' needs are being met. Availability for on call and/ or shift coverage, some weekends, holidays, and varying hours. This role reports directly to the CEO and supervises the House Manager.

Program Specialist Key Responsibilities:

Program Development and Implementation:

• Lead the development and implementation of programs tailored to the unique needs of individuals with intellectual disabilities and autism.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to design and enhance program offerings that promote individual growth and independence.

Staff Leadership and Development:

• Train, and lead a team of exempt and non-exempt programming and support staff towards a results-oriented culture based on measurable outcomes.
• Foster a positive and collaborative work culture, providing guidance, support, and professional development opportunities.

Individualized Support Plans:

• Participate in the creation and implementation of individualized support plans for program participants.
• Ensure that support plans align with the organization's mission and values, promoting the well-being and autonomy of each individual.

Community Engagement:

• Establish and maintain positive relationships with community organizations, schools, and other stakeholders.
• Collaborate with external partners to create opportunities for program participants to engage in community activities and foster inclusivity.

Quality Assurance and Evaluation:

• Implement quality assurance measures to assess and enhance the effectiveness of programs.
• Conduct regular evaluations to gather feedback from participants, families, and staff, making data-driven improvements as needed.

Budget Oversight:

• Manage program budgets efficiently, ensuring resources are allocated effectively to meet program goals.
• Identify funding opportunities, write grant proposals, and secure additional resources to support program expansion and sustainability.

Reporting and Communication:

• Prepare and deliver regular reports on program outcomes, achievements, and challenges.
• Attending meetings and trainings reporting and/ or applying relevant information as applicable
• Communicate effectively with internal and external stakeholders, providing updates on program status and seeking input for continuous improvement.
• Work to help ensure open and effective communications between senior leadership and staff.

Compliance:

Regulatory Adherence:

• Stay informed about local, state, and federal regulations governing residential services for individuals with intellectual disabilities and autism.
• Planning, attending, and adhering to the functions as required by the individual support plan (ISP)
• Ensure program compliance with all relevant laws and standards.

Documentation and Reporting:

• Oversee the accurate and timely completion of program-related documentation and reporting.
• Ensure that documentation meets regulatory requirements and organizational standards.

• Monitor staff training and certification requirements, ensuring all team members are compliant with relevant individual and organizational regulations.
• Facilitate ongoing professional development to enhance staff skills and maintain compliance.
• This role also requires the Program Specialist to be a certified investigator or certified medication administration trainer. Training will be provided.

Health and Safety Standards:

• Implement and enforce health and safety protocols within program activities.
• Conduct regular safety inspections and address any issues promptly to maintain a secure and supportive environment.

Privacy and Confidentiality:

• Establish and enforce protocols to protect the privacy and confidentiality of program participants and their information.
• Provide staff training on privacy and confidentiality guidelines.

This Program Specialist role is essential in shaping and implementing effective programs that contribute to the well-being and development of individuals with intellectual disabilities and autism. Compliance with regulations and commitment to quality are central to the success of our residential services organization.

Direct Support:

• Assist/monitor/teach individuals preparation of daytime activities, encourage good personal hygiene and appropriate behaviors in their homes.
• Assist/monitor/teach individuals with preparation of daytime activities; encourage good personal hygiene, and behavior appropriate in their home or apartment.

Qualifications:

This is a great opportunity to grow your career as a leader! Minimum qualifications for this role include:

• A bachelor's degree or above from an accredited college or university and 4 years work experience working in the human services and/ or related fields.
• Background checks required ACT 33/34/73, OIG, medicheck, SAMS and driver history.
• People & program management, budgeting/accounting, planning etc.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Demonstrated ability to be flexible and adaptable to a changing environment.
• A minimum of 4 years of leadership and work experience with individuals with Autism and intellectual disabilities
• Valid PA driver's license.

Benefits: Tutelage Residential Services LLC offers a competitive compensation package, opportunities for professional growth, and a collaborative work environment that fosters creativity and innovation. Additionally, eligible employees may receive benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and flexible work arrangements.

Tutelage Residential Services LLC is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Join our team and be a part of the exciting journey of shaping the future for our clients!