Quality Assurance Specialist

Harc is a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to providing lifelong support for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) and their families. Established in 1951, Harc offers a range of services including employment, enrichment, residential supports, and advocacy. Our mission is to ensure lives of quality, inclusion, and dignity.

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  Regular Audits and Inspections
• Conduct regular/monthly audits of residential facilities, community programs, day programs, and/or employment sites to ensure compliance with health, safety, and regulatory standards, including organizational policies as well as DDS licensing and QSR standards.
• Perform unannounced inspections to assess the quality of care and services provided.
• Client Satisfaction Surveys
• Distribute quarterly satisfaction surveys to residents/participants and their families to gather feedback on the services provided.
• Analyze survey results to identify areas for improvement and implement necessary changes.

• Staff Training and Development
• Provide ongoing training for staff on best practices, regulatory requirements, and quality assurance procedures.
• Implement a mentorship program to support new staff and promote continuous learning.
• Ensure that all staff complete the training requirements as outlined by DDS including but not limited to individual and program specific requirements.
• Incident Reporting and Analysis
• Ensure compliance with the DDS incident reporting system as well as organizational procedures to document and analyze any incidents or near-misses.
• Conduct root cause analysis to identify underlying issues and develop corrective action plans.
• Ensure completion of Abuse and Neglect case recommendations.
• Performance Metrics and Monitoring
• Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of services provided, identifying areas for improvement.
• Collaborate with program managers and directors to develop and implement corrective action plans.
• Monitor and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure the effectiveness of programs and services.
• Use data from KPI’s to drive program improvements.
• Prepare and present reports on quality assurance activities and outcomes to management and stakeholders.
• Individual Care Plans
• Ensure that each supported person has an Individual Support Plan that is reviewed and updated regularly.
• Ensure that all individual health and safety guidelines, behavior programs and action plans are implemented in a timely manner as required by DDS.
• Ensure the involvement of individuals and their families in the care planning process to ensure their needs and preferences are met.
• Establish individual protective service plans as applicable.
• Compliance with Regulatory Standards

• Stay up-to-date with local, state, and federal regulations related to intellectual disability services.
• Conduct regular compliance checks to ensure adherence to all regulatory requirements.
• Feedback Mechanisms
• Establish multiple channels for clients, families, and staff to provide feedback, including suggestion boxes, online forms, and regular meetings.
• Act on feedback promptly to address concerns and improve service quality.
• Continuous Improvement Initiatives
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement and excellence within the organization.
• Collaborate to develop and implement quality assurance policies and procedures.
• Implement a continuous improvement program that encourages staff to identify and propose quality improvement projects.
• Recognize and reward staff contributions to quality improvement efforts.
• External Reviews and Accreditation
• Participate in external reviews and benchmarking, including DDS licensing and Quality Service Reviews to compare performance with similar organizations.
• Collaborate with program managers and directors to ensure that all corrective actions are completed, documented and submitted as required by DDS or other governing entity.

1. Analytical Thinking

• Ability to analyze data and identify trends and patterns to ensure quality standards are met.
• Strong problem-solving skills to address compliance and process issues.

2. Attention to Detail

• High level of accuracy in monitoring and implementing quality assurance processes.

• Ability to meticulously review service delivery and documentation.

3. Communication Skills

• Excellent verbal and written communication to liaise effectively with program staff, management, and external stakeholders.
• Ability to clearly articulate quality standards and expectations.

4. Regulatory Knowledge

• In-depth understanding of regulatory requirements relevant to the organization and industry.
• Ability to ensure compliance with these standards.

5. Process Improvement

• Strong skills in developing and implementing continuous improvement initiatives.
• Ability to monitor and evaluate processes for efficiency and effectiveness.

6. Team Collaboration

• Ability to work closely with program staff and management to foster a culture of quality.
• Strong interpersonal skills to build relationships with stakeholders.

7. Technical Proficiency

• Proficiency with quality assurance tools and software.
• Ability to use technology to streamline and improve quality assurance processes.

8. Project Management

• Strong project management skills to oversee quality assurance initiatives.
• Ability to prioritize tasks and manage time effectively.

9. Leadership

• Ability to lead quality assurance efforts and drive a culture of excellence.
• Skills to mentor and guide team members in quality practices.

• Bachelor's degree in a related field (e.g., social work, healthcare administration, quality management) preferred.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in quality assurance or a related role, preferably within the nonprofit sector, and working with individuals with intellectual disabilities.
• Strong understanding of regulatory requirements and best practices in intellectual disability services.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with diverse stakeholders.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, Therap, and quality management software.
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation.
• Ability to work occasional evenings, weekends, and holidays as required.

• The role requires flexibility to work in a variety of environments, including office settings, residential group homes, and community-based programs. The Quality Assurance Specialist must be comfortable traveling between locations and engaging with participants, families, and staff on-site.

• Generous Paid Vacation, Sick, and Personal Time, Plus Paid Holidays
• Affordable Medical, Dental, and Vision Benefits (Harc covers 94% of a single person's health insurance cost)
• 403(b) retirement plan with a 9.5% employer contribution.
• Employer Paid Life Insurance Options

• Professional Development Opportunities, including Tuition Reimbursement
• Staff Recognition and Appreciation Programs
• Paid Training and Education
• Harc employees qualify for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)