Program Specialist- Erie Day Program

Barber National Institute•Erie, PA

About The Position

Our organization provides children and adults with autism, intellectual disabilities, and behavioral health challenges—and their families—the education, support, and resources needed to be self-reliant, independent, and valued members of their communities. We are seeking a compassionate and organized Program Specialist to support our IDS Adult Day programs. This role serves as a key member of the interdisciplinary team, coordinating services for assigned individuals, supporting the Individual Support Plan (ISP) process, ensuring regulatory compliance, and promoting person-centered programming. The Program Specialist works closely with individuals served, families, staff, and community partners to ensure services are meaningful, safe, and aligned with individual goals and preferences.

Requirements

Master's degree and one year of experience working directly with individuals with disabilities; or Bachelor's degree and two years of experience working directly with individuals with disabilities; or Associate degree, 60 college credits, or completion of a two-year program and four years of experience working directly with individuals with disabilities.
Experience working with individuals with intellectual disabilities, autism, or related developmental disabilities.
Proficiency with electronic health record systems, preferably CareLogic.
Strong documentation, record management, and reporting skills.
Valid driver's license required.
Ability to complete Certified Employment Support Professional (CESP) or ACRE-approved Basic Employment Services training within nine months of hire, when applicable.
Act 33 and Act 34 clearances required; FBI clearance required if applicable.

Nice To Haves

Strong organizational and time management skills.
Excellent communication and collaboration abilities.
Ability to build positive relationships with individuals served, families, staff, and external agencies.
Strong problem-solving and critical-thinking skills.
Commitment to person-centered services and community integration.
Ability to monitor and support regulatory compliance and documentation standards.
Confidence in training and supporting staff on individual-specific programming and service requirements.
Ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining attention to detail.

Responsibilities

Coordinating services and supports for assigned individuals to ensure implementation of ISP goals and outcomes.
Participating in ISP meetings and collaborating with team members to support person-centered planning.
Monitoring documentation, assessments, and progress reports to ensure accuracy, completeness, and regulatory compliance.
Reviewing electronic records and updating information within CareLogic as needed.
Tracking regulatory due dates and ensuring all required documentation is completed on time.
Training and supporting staff on ISP implementation, individual-specific supports, and regulatory requirements.
Observing services and activities to ensure individuals' needs, preferences, and rights are respected.
Supporting community integration opportunities based on individual interests and goals.
Monitoring behavior support plans and assisting staff in responding effectively to behavioral challenges.
Coordinating admissions, discharges, and program transitions.
Assisting with incident reporting and collaborating with investigators and leadership as appropriate.
Accompanying individuals to the emergency room and assisting with coordination of care when necessary.
Collecting data and preparing reports related to program performance and individual progress.
Building and maintaining strong working relationships with families, support coordinators, vocational agencies, and community partners.
Coordinating annual satisfaction surveys and other quality improvement initiatives.
Participating in committees and projects that support the growth and development of Adult Day services.