Employment Program Manager

Advocates•Ashland, MA

About The Position

The Employment Program Manager leads the DDS Employment program and its staff to help people with disabilities find and maintain meaningful employment, build confidence, and reach career goals. The role oversees daily program operations and ensures services are person-centered, high quality, and compliant with DDS and Advocates requirements. The manager supervises and develops Employment Services staff, builds relationships with local employers and community organizations, and supports individuals through employment planning, job selection, placement, retention, advancement, and career development. The role also coordinates job coaching and workplace supports, monitors outcomes and documentation, participates in quality improvement, and promotes inclusive employment with stakeholders. Advocates is a nonprofit, mission-driven organization providing comprehensive services for people facing developmental, mental health, or other life challenges. Its person-centered approach supports choice, independence, and meaningful lives, with a commitment to respect, compassion, inclusion, and a welcoming workplace culture.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED is the stated minimum education requirement.
Bachelor’s degree in social services or a related field such as psychology, special education, or education, plus at least three years of relevant experience; equivalent experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.
Valid driver’s license, reliable insured vehicle, and willingness to transport individuals as needed.
Strong communication, organization, problem-solving, and relationship-building skills.
Ability to manage multiple priorities and adapt to changing needs.
Strong computer skills and attention to detail.
Commitment to culturally responsive and inclusive services.
Ability to obtain and maintain required certifications.
Ability to meet the stated physical demands, including full upper and lower extremity range of motion and lifting furniture and/or objects or persons weighing over 50 lbs.

Nice To Haves

Marketing, recruitment, or job placement experience.
Experience working with people with developmental disabilities.
Management or supervisory experience, particularly in human services or employment services.

Responsibilities

Oversee daily operations of the DDS Employment program and ensure individuals receive high-quality, person-centered services that meet DDS and Advocates requirements.
Provide supervision, coaching, mentoring, training, and performance feedback to Employment Services staff.
Help staff develop the skills and resources needed to support successful employment outcomes.
Ensure each individual’s interests, strengths, skills, and career goals are assessed and incorporated into an individualized employment plan.
Support individuals with job selection, placement, retention, advancement, and career development.
Develop and maintain relationships with businesses and community organizations throughout the service area.
Identify employers interested in inclusive hiring and create employment opportunities for people supported by the program.
Partner with employers, individuals, families, and support teams to identify training and support needs.
Ensure appropriate job coaching and workplace supports are provided to help individuals succeed and become as independent as possible.
Ensure employment goals and outcomes are measurable and regularly reviewed.
Gather feedback from employers and individuals and adjust supports or employment plans as needed.
Oversee participant records, service plans, assessments, progress reports, billing, and other documentation, meeting deadlines and DDS requirements.
Monitor compliance with DDS regulations, Advocates policies, human rights requirements, and other applicable standards.
Participate in quality assurance and continuous improvement efforts.
Represent Advocates and Employment Services with employers, families, funding agencies, community partners, and other stakeholders, promoting inclusive employment and the abilities of people supported.
Foster a supportive environment in which staff feel valued and motivated to provide excellent services.
Maintain knowledge of employment practices, work incentives, benefits, and laws affecting employment for people with disabilities, and share that knowledge with the team.