IDD Program Specialist

Program Specialist

Job Title: Program Specialist
Department: Programs and Services
Reports To: Program Director/Director of Operations
FLSA Status: Exempt/Non-Exempt (as applicable)

Position Summary

The Program Specialist plays a critical role in ensuring the delivery of high-quality, person-centered services for individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). This position provides oversight, coordination, and support to program staff while promoting each individual's health, safety, dignity, independence, community inclusion, and achievement of personal goals. The Program Specialist serves as a resource to individuals served, families, support teams, and agency staff to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and best practices in service delivery.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Program Oversight and Quality Assurance

• Interfaces with Service Coordinators, families and other community partners.
• Handle daily operations of Direct Support Professionals in the territory.
• Monitor and support the implementation of Individual Support Plans (ISPs), behavior support plans, and other service-related documentation.
• Ensure services are delivered in accordance with agency policies, state regulations, accreditation standards, and funding source requirements.
• Conduct program reviews, audits, and quality assurance activities to ensure compliance and continuous improvement.
• Identify and address service gaps, risks, and barriers to successful outcomes.
• Implementing corrective action plans when needed.

Individual and Family Support

• Promote person-centered planning and self-determination for individuals receiving services.
• Participate in interdisciplinary team meetings and contribute to goal development and service planning.
• Serve as a liaison between individuals served, family members, guardians, service coordinators, healthcare professionals, and community partners.
• Assist individuals and families in accessing community resources and supports.

Staff Training and Support

• Provide guidance, coaching, and technical assistance to direct support professionals and program staff.
• Assist with onboarding and ongoing training related to IDD, autism, positive behavior support, person-centered practices, and agency policies.
• Model best practices in supporting individuals with varying support needs.
• Support staff in managing behavioral, medical, and crisis situations as appropriate.

Documentation and Compliance

• Review documentation for accuracy, completeness, and regulatory compliance.
• Maintain confidential records in accordance with HIPAA and agency requirements.
• Ensure incident reports are completed, reviewed, and addressed within required timelines.
• Collect and analyze program data to monitor outcomes and identify opportunities for service improvement.

Community Integration and Advocacy

• Promote meaningful community participation and inclusion opportunities for individuals served.
• Advocate for the rights, choices, and dignity of individuals with IDD and autism.
• Foster positive relationships with community organizations, service providers, and stakeholders.

Qualifications

Education

• High School Diploma required.
• Bachelor's degree in Human Services, Social Work, Psychology, Special Education, Rehabilitation, preferred.
• Certified Investigator certification preferred.

Experience

• Minimum of two years of experience working with individuals with IDD and/or Autism Spectrum Disorder.
• Experience with person-centered planning, behavioral supports, and regulatory compliance preferred.
• Supervisory or staff training experience preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of IDD and autism services, supports, and best practices.
• Understanding of person-centered planning principles.
• Knowledge of state 6100 regulations.
• Strong organizational, problem-solving, and critical-thinking skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
• Ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders.
• Proficiency in electronic health records, documentation systems, and Microsoft Office applications.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to travel between program sites and community locations.
• Ability to respond to crisis situations and emergencies.
• Ability to sit, stand, walk, bend, and lift up to 25 pounds as needed.

Working Conditions

• Work is performed in office, and in community settings.
• May require evening, weekend, or on-call availability depending on program needs.

Core Competencies

• Person-Centered Service Delivery
• Leadership and Team Collaboration
• Quality Assurance and Compliance
• Communication and Relationship Building
• Problem Solving and Decision Making
• Advocacy and Inclusion
• Cultural Competence and Respect for Diversity

Mission Commitment

The Program Specialist is expected to uphold the Alpha Health Services’ mission, values, and commitment to providing compassionate, respectful, and high-quality supports that empower individuals with IDD and autism to live meaningful and fulfilling lives.

Alpha Health Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by law.