Program Support Specialist (Day)

Description

Purpose Statement

The Program Support Specialist is a highly versatile and essential role within MICC, providing flexible, skilled coverage across all program areas to ensure seamless, high-quality participant support at all times. This position steps into instructional settings, small group and 1:1 sessions, medication monitoring, behavior support, shuttle transportation, and participant rounds as a support resource — reinforcing the work of the full-time program team rather than replacing it. The Program Support Specialist maintains the same standard of person-centered care as the broader team and serves as a critical resource for continuity across programming.

Schedule

Monday - Friday 7:45 AM - 4:15 PM

Essential Functions

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Program Coverage and Instructional Support

•  Provide flexible, skilled coverage across all MICC program areas as staffing needs arise
•  Serve as in-class support alongside Program Instructors, reinforcing instruction, assisting with accommodations, and helping maintain an inclusive environment — the primary instructional lead remains the assigned Program Instructor
•  Follow existing lesson plans, participant support plans, accommodation strategies when filling in across teams
•  Support shuttle and transportation needs, accompanying participants during community-based activities as assigned
•  Maintain familiarity with all program areas, participant needs, and team expectations to ensure seamless transitions when providing coverage

Medication Monitoring

•  Supervise and accurately document the medication monitoring window each shift as acting Medication Coordinator
•  Support participants with medication organization, pill box refilling, and prescription refill requests
•  Complete required training to prevent medication errors and respond effectively when errors occur
•  Partner with Advisors and families to address barriers to medication independence

Participant Rounds and Wellbeing Support

•  Conduct scheduled participant rounds to check on participant wellbeing, safety, and needs across residential and program spaces
•  Provide responsive support during assigned shifts, addressing participant needs and communicating any concerns to the appropriate staff or Advisor
•  Maintain a calm, supportive presence during programming and transition times

Behavior Support and Participant Engagement

•  Use a person-centered, strengths-based approach when supporting participants across all settings
•  Implement positive behavior supports and de-escalation strategies as needed
•  Build rapport quickly with participants and integrate effectively into varying team environments
•  Communicate observations and participant needs to the appropriate Advisor or team lead promptly

Documentation and Communication

•  Accurately document medication monitoring, attendance, behavior incidents, participant rounds, and all support provided in MICC’s data systems
•  Maintain open communication with all teams regarding coverage needs, participant updates, and shift transitions
•  Participate in team meetings, Family Weekends, graduations, and program events as needed
•  Maintain records in compliance with applicable laws and MICC policies
•  Other duties as assigned

Requirements

Education and Experience

•  Bachelor’s degree in Education, Special Education, Social Work, Psychology, Occupational Therapy, Therapeutic Recreation, or a related field preferred
•  2+ years of experience supporting individuals with ASD and/or learning differences preferred
•  Experience in medication monitoring, positive behavior supports, or direct care highly desirable

Skills and Abilities

•  Highly adaptable with the ability to shift effectively across multiple program areas, roles, and settings within a single day
•  Strong instructional and facilitation skills with the ability to step into a classroom or small group session with confidence
•  Effective de-escalation, positive behavior support, and interpersonal skills
•  Excellent organizational and communication skills, both written and verbal
•  Ability to quickly build rapport with participants and integrate into varying team environments
•  Commitment to confidentiality and professional ethics
•  Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record as determined by MICC’s insurance company, or ability to obtain a Minnesota license within 60 days of hire
•  Must reside in Minnesota