Program Specialist

NEPA INCLUSIVE•Honesdale, PA

About The Position

PA Inclusive believes that people with disabilities should have the right to live where, with whom, and how they choose and to work in meaningful, integrated employment in the community. The Program Specialist is a dynamic, multi-functional role that supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), autism, and other behavioral or mental health diagnoses across housing, employment, behavioral support, In Home & Community Support, and other services through ODP and OVR. This position plays a central role in helping individuals achieve greater independence, inclusion, and quality of life. The Program Specialist oversees a caseload of clients and staff, delivering integrated services across housing support, behavioral support, employment support, in-home & community support, and other support services. Responsibilities include developing individualized support plans, implementing behavioral interventions, job coaching, case management, staff supervision, and ensuring compliance with state, ODP, and OVR regulations. This role requires a field-based presence (up to 75%) and includes on-call availability.

Requirements

A Bachelors Degree in Human Services or a related field
Minimum of 2 years of experience working with people with disabilities, and/or certification in NADD Competency Based-Direct Support Professional Certification, or ability to obtain NADD Certification within 90 days of employment.
Ability to obtain ACRES or CESP certification within 6 months of employment.
Experience working with people with intellectual disabilities, autism, or mental health disabilities required.
Excellent communication skills.
Position requires effective communication presentation and social management skills, computer knowledge, strong documentation and organizational skills.
Valid Drivers License and Clean Driving Record.
Must Pass Child Abuse History and Criminal Record Check Clearances and not be excluded from State of PA Exclusion Lists.

Responsibilities

Manage an assigned caseload of staff and clients.
Oversee strategic delivery of employment and community-based services through OVR and OPD ID Waiver systems.
Hire, train, and supervise direct support professionals and job coaches as assigned.
Provide direct services as needed to fill open shifts or support clients.
Ensure the utilization of client-directed services as needed and perform check-ins regularly.
Promote PA Inclusive’s services to Support Coordinators, OVR Counselors, families, and referral sources.
Maintain accurate and timely documentation in systems including Therap, HCSIS, EIM, CDWS, and others.
Ensure supervision of programs regarding backup plans, 24-7 coverage, and fill in staff so that those we support always have staff when required.
Serve as agency liaison to outside entities regarding clients in programs, such as receiving referrals and communicating with ODP and Support Coordinators.
Develop strong relationships with community agencies, businesses, community leaders, and neighborhood-based organizations and develop additional program resources when appropriate.
Maintain updated and organized client files in compliance with ODP and OVR standards.
Attend ISP meetings, intake meetings, host agency meetings, and other required events.
Meet and exceed program, budget, and growth goals.
Remain on-call on a rotational basis to ensure program continuity.
Other related duties as assigned.
Assist individuals in finding and maintaining appropriate housing, including supporting applications to HUD, Section 8, and voucher programs.
Develop individualized housing support plans and help clients understand lease terms, landlord communication, budgeting, and daily living responsibilities.
Support applications for public assistance such as food stamps and energy programs.
Monitor progress toward ISP housing goals and promote independent living.
Provide employment services including job readiness, career exploration, resume building, job searching, and interview preparation.
Deliver job coaching and on-site employment supports.
Assist individuals with orientation, on-the-job responsibilities, and employer communication.
Promote use of assistive technology and reasonable accommodations in the workplace.
Ensure compliance with OVR and ODP employment service standards and certifications.
Conduct functional behavior assessments and develop individualized positive behavior support plans.
Implement behavior plans and monitor client progress, maintaining comprehensive records.
Provide consultation and training to staff and families to ensure consistent application of support strategies.
Collaborate with support teams, healthcare professionals, and families to achieve behavior-related goals.
Maintain on-call availability for behavior-related crises as part of the Behavior Supports Program.