Program Specialist

About the role

Community Options, Inc. is a national non‑profit agency providing services to individuals with disabilities in 11 states. The Program Specialist in Drums, PA uses best practices and technology within a community‑based residential setting to teach individuals with developmental disabilities the physical, intellectual, emotional, and social skills needed to live as independently as possible. The role requires handling the pressure of training in a public environment, exercising patience, working flexible schedules, and responding to crisis situations. Ingenuity and creativity are essential for determining the best training methods, assistance, and supports for each individual.

Responsibilities

• Complete staff evaluations, including 90‑day and annual reviews.
• Monitor and maintain residential budgets.
• Manage staff schedules and ensure shifts are adequately staffed.
• Monitor and schedule required staff trainings, seminars, and conferences.
• Monitor fiscal, medical, personal, and IHP documentation to ensure accuracy.
• Participate in Circle(s) of Support for personal future planning.
• Monitor and schedule house and vehicle maintenance.
• Assist in maintaining and monitoring consumers’ finances.
• Monitor and report the health and medical needs of individuals.
• Build a support network between individuals and community members.
• Prepare progress reports for individuals’ immediate support group, including family/guardian, staff, employment specialist, case manager, and other professionals.
• Ensure consistent service delivery that connects work, home, and recreational needs.
• Serve as an active member of an individual’s Inter‑Disciplinary Team (IDT), including involvement in Individual Habilitation Plan development.
• Submit monthly written reports outlining operational status, progress, and concerns.
• May perform duties of direct support professionals as needed, based on staffing needs.
• Cooperate with the licensee and department staff during inspections, inquiries, or investigations.
• Additional tasks and responsibilities may be assigned.

Minimum Requirements

• Master’s degree (or higher) from an accredited college or university + 1 year of direct experience with individuals with an intellectual disability or autism.
• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university + 2 years of direct experience with individuals with an intellectual disability or autism.
• Associate’s degree or 60 credit hours from an accredited college or university + 4 years of direct experience with individuals with an intellectual disability or autism.
• Valid driver’s license with a satisfactory driving record.
• Completion of all state and agency required training per state guidelines.
• Team‑oriented with demonstrated leadership experience.
• Strong problem‑solving skills across multiple priorities.
• Ability to establish comfortable, supportive relationships with individuals receiving supports.
• Ability to exercise good judgment and remain calm in crisis situations.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent time‑management skills.

Benefits

• Competitive insurance (Medical, Dental, Vision).
• Paid holidays, including a birthday holiday.
• Generous PTO.
• Employee incentive & discount programs.
• 403(b) retirement plan.
• Incredible career growth opportunities.

Pay

Starting pay is $55,000 per year.