Program Specialist

Make a Difference Every Day

Developmental Enterprises Corporation (DEC) is seeking a compassionate, organized, and detail-oriented Program Specialist to support adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in our Adult Training Facility (ATF).

The Program Specialist plays a critical role in ensuring individuals receive high-quality, person-centered services that promote independence, skill development, community participation, and meaningful outcomes. This position works closely with individuals receiving services, Direct Support Professionals (DSPs), families, support coordinators, and the Site Director to ensure programs are implemented effectively and in compliance with Pennsylvania Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) requirements.

If you are passionate about helping others, enjoy building relationships, and thrive in a fast-paced environment where no two days are exactly alike, we encourage you to apply.

Position Summary

The Program Specialist is responsible for assessing, implementing, monitoring, and evaluating individualized programming for adults receiving services in an Adult Training Facility. This position provides case management, program planning, documentation oversight, individual and group support, and coordination with interdisciplinary team members to ensure services are delivered in accordance with individual needs and regulatory requirements.

The Program Specialist serves as a primary point of communication between individuals receiving services, families, support coordinators, DSPs, and agency leadership regarding program goals, progress, and service needs.

Essential Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, monitor, and evaluate individualized program plans and goals.
• Participate in Individual Support Plan (ISP) meetings and interdisciplinary team meetings.
• Ensure services are delivered in accordance with person-centered practices and ODP regulations.
• Monitor individual progress and recommend program modifications when appropriate.
• Maintain accurate, timely, and compliant documentation and records.
• Communicate regularly with individuals receiving services, families, support coordinators, and team members.
• Provide guidance and support to Direct Support Professionals regarding implementation of individual goals and programming.
• Monitor the health, safety, and well-being of individuals receiving services.
• Assist with incident reporting, follow-up, and documentation requirements.
• Support community integration activities and participation opportunities.
• Assist with transportation and community-based activities as needed.
• Collaborate with the Site Director to ensure quality services and regulatory compliance.
• Participate in quality improvement initiatives and agency trainings.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor's Degree in Human Services, Psychology, Social Work, Rehabilitation, Special Education, Sociology, or a related field.
• Minimum one (1) year of experience supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
• Valid driver's license and acceptable driving record.
• Ability to obtain and maintain all required clearances and certifications.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to maintain accurate documentation and meet deadlines.
• Strong problem-solving and critical-thinking abilities.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently while managing multiple priorities.

Preferred

• Experience developing, implementing, or monitoring Individual Support Plans (ISPs).
• Knowledge of Pennsylvania Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) regulations.
• Experience in adult day programs, vocational programs, community participation support, or similar human services settings.
• Medication Administration Certification, CPR, and First Aid certification, or willingness to obtain upon hire.

What Makes Someone Successful in This Role?

The ideal candidate is:

• Highly organized and detail-oriented.
• A strong communicator with excellent writing skills.
• Dependable and responsive with strong follow-through.
• Comfortable balancing documentation responsibilities with active involvement in the program environment.
• Observant and attentive to the needs of individuals receiving services.
• Able to build positive working relationships with DSPs, families, support coordinators, and community partners.
• Capable of remaining calm and exercising sound judgment in unexpected situations.
• Passionate about supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Work Environment

This position works within an Adult Training Facility serving adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Individuals served may have varying levels of support needs, including limited verbal communication, behavioral support needs, mobility challenges, specialized feeding requirements, or medical considerations.

The Program Specialist must be able to remain engaged in the program environment, monitor services effectively, support staff in implementing programming, and respond appropriately to health and safety concerns as they arise. While documentation and administrative responsibilities are important, this position also requires active involvement in the daily operation of the program and regular interaction with individuals receiving services.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, reach, and move throughout the facility and community settings.
• Ability to lift and/or move up to 50 pounds with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Ability to assist individuals during community activities and transportation needs.
• Ability to respond appropriately during emergencies.

Why Join DEC?

• Monday-Friday daytime schedule.
• Meaningful work that positively impacts lives every day.
• Supportive team environment.
• Opportunities for professional development and growth.
• The opportunity to help individuals achieve greater independence, confidence, and quality of life.

Developmental Enterprises Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to creating an inclusive workplace where all employees and individuals served are treated with dignity and respect.

www.decmc.org