Residential Program Manager

Work Unlimited • Salem, OR

3d • Onsite

About The Position

Work Unlimited is seeking a Residential Program Manager to lead a team of direct support professionals in providing trauma-informed, youth-centered care to adolescents experiencing emotional, behavioral, and developmental challenges. This role involves guiding staff, ensuring meaningful outcomes for youth, and fostering a supportive environment for both residents and team members. The ideal candidate will be a strong, empathetic leader passionate about helping young people build resilience and thrive.

Requirements

• Background working with youth in residential treatment, special education, juvenile justice, or behavioral health settings.
• Valid Oregon driver’s license (or transferrable MVR).
• Ability to pass a DHS background check.
• Completion of pre-employment drug screening.

Nice To Haves

• Experience supporting individuals with co-occurring diagnoses and high behavioral needs.
• Degree in Psychology, Social Work, Special Education, Human Services, or a related field.
• Confident and compassionate leadership style that encourages accountability, teamwork, and professional growth.
• Able to stay calm under pressure, think critically, and respond to high-stress situations with clarity and purpose.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to build rapport with youth, staff, and partners.
• Skilled in time management, prioritizing tasks, and meeting regulatory expectations.
• Prior supervisory or leadership experience in adolescent-focused programs.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and execution of Individual Support Plans (ISPs) and behavior support plans tailored to each youth's unique strengths, needs, and goals.
• Implement and model consistent, compassionate responses to emotional dysregulation, behavioral escalation, and crisis situations.
• Coordinate closely with mental health providers, schools, child welfare, and other stakeholders to support wraparound services.
• Train, mentor, and empower residential staff in behavior strategies, daily routines, and youth engagement.
• Manage schedules, documentation, compliance tasks, and household operations to maintain a safe, therapeutic environment.
• Conduct regular safety checks, ensure staff certification requirements are met, and uphold all licensing standards.

Benefits

• Transform Lives – Lead a team that supports youth in building skills, stability, and self-confidence.
• Supportive Team Culture – Collaborate with professionals who are committed to trauma-informed practices and individualized supports.
• Leadership Growth – Gain specialized experience working with adolescents in a residential treatment environment.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager