Associate Program Director, START

Essential Functions

• Assists in supervising the Clinical Team Lead, START Coordinators, START Therapeutic Coaching Lead, and START Therapeutic Coaches.
• Ensures associate responsibilities, authorities, and accountabilities are clearly defined and understood; manages and evaluates performance and productivity.
• Works with the Director of Consultation Services and Human Resources in the recruitment and selection of new program associates; oversees associates involved in the process as needed.
• Provides support to the clinical team as required.
• Serves as liaison to community network partners and represents the START team in the community to strengthen partnerships and collaboration.
• Coordinates trainings utilizing expertise of psychologists, psychiatrists, team leaders, and community specialists.
• Leads and/or attends staff meetings and daily triage meetings; prepares and delivers specialized training and instructional materials, including staff development training, as assigned by the Director of Consultation Services.
• Collaborates with START leadership to monitor service quality and ensure fidelity to the START model.
• Assists in responding to requests from state agencies for data and program information.
• Enters, monitors and assures data entry for all team members in the START Information Reporting System; uses data to inform program decisions.
• Attends conferences and trainings to stay current on research, trends, and developments related to intellectual and developmental disabilities, special education, and related fields.

Education & Experience

• Master’s Degree in social work, psychology, counseling or human service field.
• PREFERRED: Certificate or license (e.g., BCBA, OT, LMFT, LCSW, etc.).
• MUST HAVE AND MAINTAIN: Current CPR certification card.
• MUST BE: Certified START Coordinator within 12 months of employment as team leader.
• 5 years of professional experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities and behavioral health needs, in a multi-disciplinary team setting.
• 2 years of supervisory experience.
• TYPICALLY: Experience in managing severe behavior problems such as frequent property destruction, aggression towards others, SIB, PICA, etc.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities

• Expert knowledge of scientifically-validated methodologies and approaches found to benefit individuals with developmental disabilities and behavioral health needs; familiar with current related research findings.
• Strong clinical, administrative, and leadership skills.
• Demonstrated proficiency in Microsoft Office Applications (Outlook, Word, Excel, etc.).
• Able to interpret and implement policies, procedures, and regulations.
• Able to consistently demonstrate good judgment and decision-making skills.
• Able to maintain customer service orientation and professionalism in all interactions.
• Able to communicate effectively, through oral and written skills, and work cooperatively with a variety of individuals and groups.
• Able to relate well to participants and their families and maintain positive affect.
• Able to exercise discretion and maintain a high level of confidentiality to handle sensitive and confidential situations and documentations.
• Able to pass a post-offer physical examination and a TB test.
• Able to provide proof of required vaccinations or positive titer showing immunity.
• Able to obtain and maintain a criminal record/fingerprint clearance from the Department of Justice and Federal Bureau of Investigation per Easterseals of Southern California and/or program requirements.
• Able to travel locally; maintain a driving record in compliance with Transportation Safety Standards; maintain auto insurance and vehicle registration.
• Able to pass all drug screenings required by ESSC.

Physical Requirements

• Carrying/Lifting: Occasional / Up to 30 lbs.
• Standing: Occasional / Up to 3 hours per day.
• Sitting: Constant / Up to 8 hours per day.
• Walking: Occasional / Up to 3 hours per day.
• Travel: May require up to 50% of time.
• Repetitive Motion/Activity: Keyboard activity, telephone use, writing.
• Visual Acuity: Ability to view computer monitor and read newsprint.
• Environmental Exposure: Regular exposure to unpleasant or hazardous working conditions (noise, heat, dust, bodily fluids, etc.).