Program Specialist

Lifesteps Inc•Eighty Four, PA

3d•Onsite

About The Position

Lifesteps is hiring a Full-Time Disability Services Program Specialist for the Adult Training Facility located in Washington County, Eighty Four, PA. Lifesteps is a non-profit human services organization which has been serving Western Pennsylvania for over 100 years by “helping individuals and families with life's changing needs”. The Agency provides programs and services to help those with special needs live to their fullest potential. If you have a strong desire to help others and serve the community, this is the right opportunity for you. Position Summary: The disability services Program Specialist supports individuals with disabilities by assessing needs, developing tailored support plans, and ensuring access to services, education, or employment. The Program Specialist advocates for people with special needs, coordinates care with day program aides, maintains detailed records, and ensures compliance with disability regulations. Key duties and responsibilities include: Assessment & Planning: Conducting comprehensive needs assessments and developing individualized support plans (ISPs) to enhance quality of life. Advocacy & Support: Advocating for client rights, assisting in navigating service systems, and providing guidance to clients and families. Case Management & Coordination: Coordinating with healthcare providers, educators, and community agencies to ensure service continuity. Administrative & Regulatory Compliance: Maintaining detailed documentation, tracking data, and ensuring compliance with state, federal, and program-specific laws (e.g., ADA). Resource Navigation: Assisting with applications for disability benefits, housing, or employment opportunities. Training & Education: Providing education on accommodations to staff or employers. This is not a supervisory position. Work Schedule: Full-time -- Monday through Friday --8:00 am to 4:00 pm No Evenings, No Weekends, No Holidays

Requirements

Associate’s degree OR 60 credit hours from an accredited college or university and 4 years’ experience working directly with persons with disabilities
Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university and 2 years of experience working directly with persons with disabilities
Master's degree or above from an accredited college or university and 1 year of experience working directly with persons with disabilities
Possess a valid driver's license and auto insurance
Must be able to lift, push, pull up to 200 pounds with assistance
Must be able to pass a background check and obtain clearances
Must be at least 18 yrs of age or older

Nice To Haves

Degrees related to Human Services, Special Education, Sociology, Psychology, Transition Programming, etc. are preferred, but any major is acceptable.
Association of Community Rehabilitation Educators Certificate (ACRE Certificate)
Certified Employment Support Professional (CESP)
Knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite applications including Word, Outlook, Excel and PowerPoint.

Responsibilities

Conducting comprehensive needs assessments and developing individualized support plans (ISPs) to enhance quality of life.
Advocating for client rights, assisting in navigating service systems, and providing guidance to clients and families.
Coordinating with healthcare providers, educators, and community agencies to ensure service continuity.
Maintaining detailed documentation, tracking data, and ensuring compliance with state, federal, and program-specific laws (e.g., ADA).
Assisting with applications for disability benefits, housing, or employment opportunities.
Providing education on accommodations to staff or employers.