Vocational Program Specialist

Description

Position Title: Program Specialist

Department: Vocational

Reports to: Employment and Vocational Services Director

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Position Summary

The Program Specialist is responsible for the daily case management of a specified caseload.  The Program Specialist may assist in planning and implementing program components as well as acting as a liaison between production workers, community living providers, family, and county personnel. 

Minimum Qualifications

1. A bachelor's degree or higher from an accredited college or university in Education, Psychology, or other human services field and one (1) year of experience working with persons with an intellectual disability or autism; or

2. An associate's degree or completion of a two-year program from an accredited college or university in Education, Psychology, or other human services field and three (3) years of experience working with persons with an intellectual disability or autism.

3. Familiarization with methods and materials for the education of adults with an intellectual disability or autism.

4. Demonstrated leadership skills.

5. Experience developing and implementing person-centered outcomes.

6. Experience administering skill assessment instruments and interpreting results.

7. Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

8. Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite.

9. Strong organizational skills and the ability to work independently.

10. Ability to represent ProBerco professionally in all settings.

11. Valid Pennsylvania driver’s license.

Requirements

Duties and Responsibilities

1. Develop, implement, and monitor program plans and activities that promote vocational growth and achievement.

2. Evaluate, guide, and instruct/supervise clients in a comprehensive program, which may include experiences in the community.

3. Maintain proper files on each client and see that these files are kept up to date.

4. Responsible for case management duties for a specified caseload including holding program planning meetings; acting as liaison with county personnel, family, and residential provider if applicable; preparation of required reports and specialized programs.

5. Perform daily program changes for designated group in times of staff absence.

6. Responsible to ensure maintenance of program area and equipment, including maintaining an updated inventory.

7. Keep supervisor informed of pertinent programmatic and client needs or changes.

8. Knowledge of emergency procedures.

9. Provide supervision and assistance as needed during lunch, breaks, before and after program hours, and with personal care.

10. Coordination of training and development for individuals.

11. Ensure implementation of program plans and activities.

12. Medication administration and documentation as necessary.

13. Provide transportation for clients as necessary.

14. Ensure regulatory compliance.

15. Assist Supervisor in selecting and ordering materials, supplies, and equipment.

16. Participation in interdisciplinary team meetings.

17. Attend and maintain 24 hours of training per year.

18. Advocate in accordance with the mission of ProBerco for individuals receiving services.

19. Regular attendance at work.

20. Other duties as assigned.

Competencies

To successfully perform the duties of the Program Specialist position, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies:   

• Leadership Skills: Demonstrates ethics and integrity; shows initiative and purpose; manages self effectively, adapts to change; communicates clearly; supports the development of others; values diversity and inclusion; and builds and maintains positive relationships,

• Verbal and Written Communication: Communicates clearly and effectively in both written and verbal formats; edits work for accuracy, spelling, and grammar; reads and interprets written information with attention to detail.

• Works Cooperatively as Part of a Team: Supports team goals; balances individual and team responsibilities; leads by example; contributes to a positive work environment; demonstrates openness to others’ perspectives; and gives and receives constructive feedback.

• Quality: Demonstrates accuracy, thoroughness, and attention to detail; seeks opportunities for improvement; applies feedback to enhance performance; monitors own work to ensure quality standards are met.

• Independence: Works independently under the direction of a supervisor; prioritizes and plans work activities; manages time effectively; takes responsibility for actions; completes tasks on time or communicates proactively when adjustments are needed.

• Interpersonal Skills: Interacts respectfully and effectively with diverse populations; demonstrates sensitivity and professionalism; maintains confidentiality at all times.

. Financially Responsible: Maintains accurate financial records, receipts, and funds for program participant and household accounts; uses agency funds only as assigned and in a responsible manner.

Physical Demands

• Lifting:  Must be able to lift at least 50 pounds independently, and potentially more with assistance when transferring a program participant  (e.g., from a bed to a wheelchair or into a tub).

• Mobility and Movement: This role demands a high degree of physical activity to support program participants in daily living activities and within the community. Required physical actions include but are not limited to:

- Frequent bending, twisting, stooping, squatting, and kneeling

- Standing and walking for extended periods

- Pushing and pulling against resistance

- Reaching, often overhead and to ground level

- Ascending/descending stairs and ramps

- Assisting with transfers (e.g., in and out of vehicles, beds, or baths)

- Personal Care Assistance: The ability to physically assist with personal hygiene and daily living needs, which may involve exposure to bodily fluids, is a necessary part of the job.

Work Environment

The Program Specialist works in dynamic environments that adapt to the needs of the individuals receiving services. Support may be provided in homes, workplaces, medical facilities, or other community settings. These settings  may be fast-paced and able to adjust to changing needs, schedules, and activities.  

I have received and reviewed this position description and agree to adhere to all corporate policies and procedures. ProBerco reserves the right to change or assign other duties to this position, as necessary. This is not a complete itemization of all facets of this position. This position description is not an employment agreement or contract.