Program Lead

Merakey • Virginia Beach, VA

7d • Onsite

About The Position

Merakey is seeking a Program Lead in Virginia Beach, Virginia. The Program Lead oversees day-to-day activities for assigned programs or services, coordinates program operations, and helps ensure high-quality services for participants. The role reports to the Program Manager and may include managing an individual caseload. The position is scheduled for first shift, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and requires flexibility to work other open shifts when needed. The listed pay is $20.86 per hour, with an Enhanced Pay Option.

The Program Lead provides guidance and direction to staff, assigns duties according to program needs and staff strengths, and checks in with staff about performance. The role also supports client care and safety by enforcing program procedures, monitoring client behavior, intervening to de-escalate conflicts, and responding to emergencies according to established protocols.

Specific duties include serving as lead staff and point person during a shift; preparing and managing house schedules with the Program Manager; providing direct care, including assistance with activities of daily living, food preparation and feeding, and required supervision; managing and administering medications; coordinating incident management with the Program Manager and QCO; and handling household needs such as menu planning, grocery shopping, and housekeeping. The Program Lead also maintains the assigned home’s cleanliness and upkeep, handles routine maintenance needs, and identifies repairs and submits maintenance requests.

Requirements

• Must be at least 18 years old.
• Must have a verifiable high school diploma or GED.
• Must have 1–3 total years of experience working in a human services residential setting.
• Must possess excellent interpersonal, communication, and conflict-resolution skills.
• Must be able to prioritize tasks, manage multiple responsibilities, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Must be able to make quick decisions and remain calm under pressure.
• Must be able to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team.
• Must be flexible to work other open shifts when needed.
• Must be willing to obtain NADSP Certification within the first year of hire, if required.

Responsibilities

• Serve as lead staff and point person while on shift.
• Prepare and manage house schedules in coordination with the Program Manager.
• Provide direct care, including assistance with activities of daily living, food preparation and feeding, and required supervision.
• Manage and administer medication.
• Coordinate incident management with the Program Manager and QCO.
• Manage household needs, including menu development, grocery shopping, and housekeeping.
• Maintain the assigned home’s cleanliness, upkeep, and routine maintenance needs.
• Identify needed repairs and submit maintenance requests.
• Provide guidance, support, and direction to staff members.
• Assign staff duties and responsibilities based on program needs and individual strengths.
• Conduct regular staff check-ins and provide feedback on performance and areas for improvement.
• Enforce program policies and procedures to ensure client and staff safety and security.
• Monitor client behavior and intervene to de-escalate conflicts or address concerns.
• Respond to emergencies or crises following established protocols and seek assistance as needed.
• Coordinate program activities and support the delivery of high-quality services to participants.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, plus healthcare advocacy support.
• Retirement plan with pre-tax and Roth (after-tax) employee contribution options.
• DailyPay access to earned pay.
• On the Goga well-being platform, with self-care tools and resources.
• Access to Care.com for backup childcare, elder care, and household services.
• Employee Assistance Program with confidential counseling, legal, and financial services.
• Tuition reimbursement and educational partnerships.
• Employee discounts and savings programs for entertainment, travel, and lifestyle.
• Free online personal development classes through Pryor Online Learning.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: High school or GED