What are the responsibilities and job description for the Assistant Director of Joplin position at The Arc Of The Ozarks?
Positions starting at $72,100 annually!
Assistant Director of Program Services Joplin
Are you interested in joining a rewarding non-profit career field with opportunities to make a difference in your community? The Arc invites you to join our team of value-driven and independent professionals. Help us fulfill our mission to support individuals with disabilities in enhancing the quality of their lives!
Bring Your Experience to The Arc! Experience-based wages are available for those whose background is above and beyond the position's requirements.
What is this job about?
Are you a visionary leader with a passion for program development and service excellence? The Arc of the Ozarks is seeking an Assistant Director of Program Services to oversee and enhance our community programs in Joplin, MO. The Assistant Director of Program Services Joplin is an integral part of our organization. In this leadership role, you'll be responsible for the development, coordination, and evaluation of individualized support plans; ensuring quality, compliance, and impactful services for those we serve. The Assistant Director of Joplin also has the satisfaction of empowering and mentoring the next generation of leaders at The Arc.
If you're ready to drive innovation, lead teams, and make a lasting impact, apply today!
If we didn’t get your attention yet - The Arc of the Ozarks also offers competitive pay and benefits.
What will my day-to-day responsibilities look like?
Step into a high-impact leadership role where every day brings the opportunity to shape lives and strengthen services at The Arc of the Ozarks. As the Assistant Director of Program Services in Joplin, you’ll provide strategic leadership and hands-on support to ensure exceptional care, regulatory excellence, and a thriving team environment across our innovative programs. Your day-to-day will include:
Leadership & Oversight - Serve as a mission-driven leader and ambassador of The Arc, supervising Program Supervisors and support staff. You’ll oversee daily operations for a range of programs—ensuring delivery of services that meet both DMH-DD and CARF standards.
Staff Development & Performance Management - Recruit, train, and mentor high-performing teams, monitor staffing patterns, and ensure compliance with training requirements. You’ll also manage evaluations, licensing (including Class E), timecards, and discipline when necessary—keeping your team accountable and engaged.
Quality Assurance & Documentation - Champion a culture of accountability through frequent site visits, performance reviews, and data tracking. You’ll review and sign off on individualized support plans (ISPs), incident reports (GERs), and ensure weekly documentation like Form 408s is completed accurately and on time.
Operations & Financial Oversight - Keep the pulse on operational efficiency by managing program budgets, resolving APT (service monitoring) issues, and overseeing caseload updates and personnel change requests. Your attention to detail will drive both compliance and financial health.
Strategic Planning & Program Design - Collaborate with the Director of Program Services to design and implement innovative programs that meet both immediate and long-term goals. From writing and reviewing ISPs to overseeing interdisciplinary team plans, your input will shape the future of service delivery.
Community & Internal Collaboration - Build strong relationships with staff, families, guardians, and external service partners. Participate in fundraising events, serve on internal committees, and maintain positive communication across all departments—helping foster a collaborative, mission-first culture.
If you're ready to make a meaningful difference while leading exceptional programs, this is the role for you!
What do I need to be successful in this position?
We’re looking for a visionary, forward-thinking leader to take on the role of Assistant Director of Program Services at The Arc of the Ozarks Joplin! This leadership role requires a dynamic professional who thrives in managing complex programs, driving innovation, and fostering strong relationships with key stakeholders. A successful candidate will possess:
Leadership & Management
Proven experience in leading teams, managing programs, and driving results
Demonstrated success in staff development, strategic planning, and program implementation
Ability to motivate, inspire, and foster a culture of collaboration and accountability
Industry Expertise
Knowledge of community-based programs, applied behavior analysis, mental health, and developmental disabilities
Experience working with Department of Mental Health, Targeted Case Management, and state-funded programs
Strong understanding of waiver services, licensure requirements, and accreditation standards
Essential Skills & Abilities
Exceptional interpersonal skills to build authentic relationships with clients, families, staff, and external stakeholders
Critical thinker and problem solver with sound judgment and decision-making skills
Excellent communication skills—both written and verbal—to effectively represent The Arc of the Ozarks
Ability to adapt to a fast-paced environment and successfully manage multiple priorities
Passionate advocate for individuals with disabilities, dedicated to enhancing their independence and quality of life
Education & Experience
Bachelor’s degree in a human services field preferred
4 years of directly related professional experience required with a degree
At least 2 years must be in a management capacity
Experience must be in working with individuals with autism spectrum disorders, mental illness, and/or other disabilities
Must include involvement in the provision of community-based programs for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, mental illness, and/or other disabilities
7 years of relevant experience accepted in lieu of a degree
5 years must be in a management role
Experience must include hands-on work in community-based services supporting individuals with disabilities, autism, and/or mental illness
Strongly prefer candidates with prior experience as a Program Supervisor or comparable leadership role
Strongly prefer knowledge of and experience with services provided by the Department of Mental Health and Children’s Division
Must qualify as a Degreed Professional Manager per DMH-DD waiver guidelines
Additional Requirements
Valid driver’s license & insured vehicle (Missouri Class E license [or equivalent] required or ability to obtain)
Availability for varied and flexible hours as needed
Commitment to The Arc of the Ozarks' mission, vision, and core values
This is an exciting opportunity to lead with purpose, make a lasting impact, and drive positive change within our community. If you’re ready to take your leadership to the next level, we’d love to hear from you!
If that doesn’t draw your attention, take a look at our excellent benefits package:
Competitive salary and excellent working environment
Eligibility for Medical, Vision, Dental, and Life Insurance after a 0-day waiting period
Employer-Paid Life Insurance and AD&D coverage
Option to enroll in our 403(b)-retirement plan immediately - with employer match up to 4% after a year of service
Sick and vacation accrual as well as 7-paid holidays a year and a paid day off to celebrate your birthday
Discounts on your phone bill if you use Verizon or AT&T
Discounted Fitness Center membership if you are Full-Time
Use of a fleet vehicle or paid mileage for using your vehicle
Opportunities for advancement
Monthly Cell Phone Reimbursement Stipend
Employee Assistance Program
Wellness Program
Annual Wage Increase Potential
Many more…
If you are passionate about making a meaningful difference in individual's lives, click on the link and apply now to join our team!
Looking for more information?
Give us a call at 417-771-3700
Ask for the Talent Acquisition Team
Send us an Email at Jobs@thearcoftheozarks.org
Don't forget to include your name and the position/location you are interested in.
Checkout some videos about our organization and the individuals we support here
https://www.youtube.com/@thearcoftheozarks-springfield/videos
Checkout our website and social media here:
https://thearcoftheozarks.org/
https://www.facebook.com/thearcoftheozarks
https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-arc-of-the-ozarks/
https://www.glassdoor.com/Reviews/Arc-of-the-Ozarks-Reviews-E421090.htm
ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF PROGRAM SERVICES
Definition
The position of Assistant Director of Program Services (AD) is a responsible, professional program-planning, and management-and-supervisory position for community programs for The Arc of the Ozarks. The AD is responsible for assisting the Program Director in evaluating and planning programs to serve individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in accordance with The Arc of the Ozarks established long and short-term goals and provide administrative coordination of various programs.
The AD functions as a Degreed Professional Manager (Missouri Comprehensive Waiver guidelines) with overall responsibility for the development, implementation, coordination, and evaluation of individual support plans adapted to the needs of persons served in individual residential settings and, when assigned, assumes the responsibility of the Director of Program Services in the absence of the Director of Program Services. The AD may serve as Program Supervisor as caseload needs may arise.
Work includes supervision and direction of individual residential sites and programs operated by The Arc of the Ozarks. Additional responsibilities include the development and monitoring of individualized support plans and safety crisis plans for individuals residing in individual residential sites operated by The Arc of the Ozarks.
The AD is responsible for the design, evaluation, and monitoring strategies for the delivery of effective programs; assuring standards for licensure are implemented, certification and/or accreditation are met and maintained; and supervising assigned staff as well as implementing active treatment programs. Along with the Director of Program Services, the AD is responsible for the overall appearance and cleanliness of the ISL and program sites. The employee consults with administrative officials, program staff, and other employees and outside agencies in coordinating and implementing The Arc of the Ozarks Quality Assurance Program.
General supervision is received from the Director of Program Services or other designated superior; however, the employee is expected to exercise independent judgment and initiative within the limit of established guidelines and procedures. This is a salaried, exempt position.
Essential Job Functions
Mission and Core Values
Serves as an ambassador of the mission and purpose of The Arc of the Ozarks
Attend at least two Arc-sponsored events such as fundraisers or networking events.
Serves on an Arc committee or teaches a certification class.
Personnel Management
Directly supervises assigned Program Supervisors
Provides oversight of all day-to-day operations of the assigned program
Knowledgeable about reports in ADP regarding staffing patterns, schedules, and overtime. The AD will ensure supervisors are aware of OT goals and know the cost of OT to the agency.
Provides training and guidance to assigned Program Supervisors.
Responsible for applicant review, assignment, and open hours report updates.
Ensures staff with expired trainings will be removed from scheduled shifts (until training is complete) and receive disciplinary actions when needed.
Program Oversight, Design and Development
Assumes overall responsibility for the delivery of services in accordance with DMH-DD standards
Ensures all services provided are person-centered and based on best-practice-standards in accordance with CARF standards
Participates with the Director of Program Services and other administrative staff in formulation and implementation of administrative procedures, rules, and regulations pertinent to program services.
Ensures individual support plans are accurate upon review and is responsible for signing off on ISPs as the representative from The Arc.
Designs, constructs, and participates in the development of programs that meet long and short-range program planning goals
Reviews reports and related information developed by interdisciplinary team members and supervises and monitors changes in individual support plans.
Quality Assurance and Compliance
Assumes overall responsibility for implementing policies and procedures regarding training completion and competency of all employees.
Ensures form 408 is completed by program supervisors at least weekly with the date of the visit and what was checked while in the home.
Ensures proper documentation of each person served is completed in accordance with The Arc’s policy and procedures
Ensures the program site environment is person-centered, clean, free of any health and safety concerns, and meets The Arc’s quality assurance standards.
Prepares and maintains a quality assurance plan in cooperation with the Quality Management team, and approved by the President/CEO and The Board of Directors of The Arc of the Ozarks
Cooperates with other service providers and state departments in ensuring sufficient and appropriate services for each assigned program participant.
Evaluates the overall quality of services provided through studies and reports and makes recommendations to the Director of Program Services.
Review and sign off on GERs in Therap within the allotted timeframes.
The AD will visit program sites on at least a monthly basis.
Leadership and Communication
Keeps the Director of Program Services informed through periodic reports concerning various phases of program responsibility.
Provides supervision, training and oversight to Program Supervisors and Program Supervisor Mentor(s)
Communicates necessary information to all subordinates in accordance with policy and procedures
Responsible for creating a positive work environment that promotes open communication, commitment to the mission, and a collaborative atmosphere
Maintain effective working relationship with persons served, supervisors, families and guardians, co-workers, and professionals from other organizations
Maintains effective working relationships with all agency departments.
Program Operations
Responsible for ensuring appraisals and Class E Licenses for the assigned team are completed and submitted in a timely manner.
Familiarity with all Arc policies and possesses ability to effectively carryout and enforce all
Arc policies.
Responsible for ensuring all staff are current on training and that subordinates follow policy and procedures regarding training.
Responsible for following up on APTs reports and ensuring service monitoring issues are tracked and resolved.
Responsible for updating caseload splits, ensuring PCRs are submitted in a timely manner for all personnel changes and timecards are completed in a timely manner for payroll purposes.
Complete and submit Community RN billing within the allotted timeframes.
Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Ability to exercise good judgment and discretion.
Ability to work with and respect persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities as well as other mental health disorders
Ability to work varied and flexible hours and to accept and adapt to changes in
assignments, methods, policies, etc.
Considerable knowledge of modern behavior-modification principles and practices, and cognitive behavior management techniques as they apply to habilitation programming for individuals with disabilities.
Considerable knowledge of the behavioral sciences and allied disciplines involved in the evaluation, care, and habilitation of persons with disabilities.
Considerable knowledge of the principles of supervision and training as applied to habilitational programming.
Ability to plan, coordinate, and adapt a variety of habilitation program activities
to meet the specialized needs, abilities, and conditions of each program participant.
Considerable knowledge of community-based programs of all disciplines for the care and the treatment of individuals with disabilities.
Ability to direct, coordinate, and supervise harmoniously the work of professional and non-professional employees.
Ability to assign, direct, and review the work of subordinate staff involved in the implementation of habilitation programs.
Ability to collect and analyze information in making decisions concerning treatment for each individual served.
Ability to evaluate the progress of individuals served and the quality of a variety of habilitation programs.
Ability to develop effective and practical individual habilitation plans and related.
program procedures.
Ability to communicate effectively in oral and written form.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with program participants, subordinates, and other facility staff.
Ability to work as a direct contact staff with individuals served, to demonstrate needed
behavior for direct contact staff.
Actively participates as a member of a committee and all associated responsibilities; or teaches a class as designated by the training department.
A licensed and insured driver, with ability to obtain a Missouri Class E driver license
Minimum Experience and Training Qualifications
Strongly prefer knowledge of and prior experience working with services offered through Department of Mental Health and Children’s Division.
Strongly prefer candidates with prior experience as a Program Supervisor or comparable position.
Prefer candidates with bachelor’s degree in human services field. For candidates with a bachelor’s degree, four years of directly related professional experience (two of which must be in a management capacity) in working with persons with autism spectrum disorders, mental illness and/or other disabilities which must have been involved in the provision of community-based programs for persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities, mental illness and/or other disabilities.
Relevant experience may be substituted for bachelor’s degree. For candidates without a bachelor’s degree, must have seven years relevant experience in the field (five of which must be in a management capacity.)
Must qualify to serve as a Degreed Professional Manager in accordance with DMH-DD waiver guidelines.
Traits and Characteristics Desired
The Assistant Director will be a person who is passionate about working with individuals with disabilities and increasing their independence as a valued member of the community. A sincere dedication to the mission and the people served by The Arc of the Ozarks is crucial.
The Assistant Director should have outstanding critical thinking skills and effective communication qualities as demonstrated by success in prior experience in a human service position or leadership role.
Must have the capacity to cultivate and maximize individual and team relationships. Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build authentic relationships with clients, guardians, staff, and all internal and external stakeholders is valued.
The Assistant Director must demonstrate the ability to establish rapport, effectively communicates, and cultivates a positive work culture with not only their team, but staff from other departments, guardians, individuals served, internal and external stakeholders.
Demonstrates empathy and compassion, effective conflict resolution, exceptional communication and follow-up skills.
The Assistant Director must be adaptable and able to work successfully in a fast-paced environment with a strong work ethic. They are able to delegate effectively and demonstrate solid time management skills.
The Assistant Director should be open to feedback, possess a growth mindset, and a willingness for learning opportunities in order to better themselves and The Arc of the Ozarks.
Salary : $72,100
