What are the responsibilities and job description for the RESIDENTIAL PROGRAM SPECIALIST position at Lehigh Human Support Services?
POSITION SUMMARY:
The Residential Specialist is responsible for providing direct care and support to individuals in a residential rehabilitation setting, in compliance with Pennsylvania's Chapter 6400 regulations under the Office of Developmental Programs (ODP). This role focuses on promoting a safe, structured environment that fosters independence and personal growth for individuals with developmental disabilities. The Specialist ensures all activities and care align with ODP standards while advocating for residents' well-being and autonomy. Responsibilities also include case management, acting as a liaison between families, external agencies, and Lehigh Human Support Services. The role involves coordinating essential services and working collaboratively to meet the individualized needs of all individuals in our program.
Job Description:
As a Program Specialist at Lehigh Human Support Services, you will play a crucial role in ensuring compliance with ODP regulations. Your responsibilities will include:
- Completing required documentation, such as quarterly reports, annual assessments, and incident reports, while maintaining accurate individual records for both the program and support coordinators in accordance with program regulations.
- Acting as a liaison between team members, agencies, and community members to address individual needs and meet regulatory requirements.
- Proactively initiating contact with support coordinators to schedule Individual Support Plan (ISP) meetings and monthly monitoring sessions.
- Collaborating in the development of the ISP, including annual updates and revisions, providing valuable content input for accuracy and promptly reporting any discrepancies to the Supports Coordinator or plan lead.
- Conducting reviews of the ISP with both the individuals and direct care staff, ensuring understanding and correct implementation of goals.
- Offering informal counseling to individuals when needed, addressing workplace issues.
- Delivering training sessions to individuals and LHSS staff on essential topics such as career path development, conflict resolution, workplace issue management, self-advocacy, and work behaviors.
- Providing backup support for other program staff as required.
- Participating in emergency response situations following established program protocols.
- Planning and supervising activities for individuals in alignment with their individual plans.
- Supporting the integration of individuals into the community and facilitating communication and involvement with families and friends.
- Active participation in individuals' medical appointments.
- Performing other duties as assigned by The Quality Manager.
- Your role as a Program Specialist will contribute significantly to the success of our programs and the well-being of the individuals we serve, ensuring compliance and fostering a supportive environment.
Qualification Required:
- Master’s degree or above from an accredited college or university and 1 year work experience working directly with persons with ID and/or autism,
- OR
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university and 2 years work experience working directly with persons with ID and/or autism.
- OR
- An associate degree or 60 credit hours from an accredited college or university and 4 years work experience working directly with persons with ID and/or autism.
- 2 years of experience in program management or a related field
- Strong organizational and project management skills
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Preferred Qualifications:
- Master's degree in a related field
- Experience in the Health Care and Social Assistance industry
- Knowledge of program evaluation and quality improvement methodologies
- Experience with data analysis and reporting
- Experience with grant writing and management
Responsibilities:
- Develop and implement program strategies to meet organizational goals
- Collaborate with stakeholders to identify program needs and opportunities for improvement
- Monitor program progress and evaluate effectiveness
- Ensure compliance with program regulations and guidelines
- Prepare reports and presentations to communicate program outcomes and recommendations
Skills:
As a Program Specialist, you will use your strong organizational and project management skills to develop and implement program strategies. You will communicate effectively with stakeholders and team members to ensure program success. Your ability to analyze data and evaluate program effectiveness will be critical in identifying areas for improvement. Finally, your knowledge of program evaluation and quality improvement methodologies will be essential in ensuring the delivery of high-quality care and services to our individuals.