Program Specialist (PA Chapter 6400)

AGENCY COMPLIANCE NOTICE – PLEASE READ BEFORE APPLYING:

This leadership position strictly requires full compliance with Pennsylvania 55 Pa. Code Chapter 6400. To ensure operational stability, our agency mandates that candidates possess both the state-required educational credentials AND a minimum of 4 years of direct, verifiable experience specifically within a licensed Residential Habilitation setting. Candidates who do not meet both the educational standard and the specific residential tenure requirements will not qualify or be considered for this role.

Exciting Job Opportunity:

Are you an experienced Residential Program Specialist with in-depth knowledge of the PA ODP Chapter 6400 regulations with a proven track record? We are seeking a hard working, passionate, and dedicated professional to oversee program compliance and service delivery for our agency. We are a close-knit, growing team of 13 staff members, managing an ultra-focused caseload of 4 individuals split across 2 small, intimate homes. This boutique scale allows you to build genuine relationships and provide top-notch, highly individualized services, while guiding direct support staff. If you bring relevant experience, a strong understanding of Chapter 6400, a commitment to high-quality residential support, and the leadership skills to guide staff, we encourage you to apply.

Position Overview & Expectations

Unlike a desk-based role, this on-site position requires an active presence in our residential homes. Our small, manageable caseload allows the Residential Program Specialist to focus on quality of care, not just paperwork. Work hours will vary based on program needs, with time dedicated to on-the-floor quality oversight, observing different shifts, and mentoring Direct Support Professionals (DSPs).

Responsibilities:

• Regulatory Compliance & Note Audits: Ensure continuous compliance with all ODP 6400 and 6100 regulations. Conduct daily audits of DSP progress notes to guarantee accurate data collection and billing compliance.
• Onboarding & Intakes: Oversee and execute the complete onboarding process for all new residents, ensuring 100% regulatory compliance with intake documentation and initial assessments.
• Safety Coordination: Plan, conduct, and legally document monthly fire drills, ensuring all shifts rotate through safety protocols quarterly per state mandates.
• ISP Development: Coordinate, develop, and revise individualized service plans (ISPs), ensuring all outcomes are measurable and data-driven.
• Community Integration Calendars: Actively assess individual interests and ISP outcomes to design, coordinate, and publish a monthly calendar of community integration activities and outings tailored to the residents.
• Medical Oversight: Coordinate with medical providers to ensure all annual physicals and age- and gender-specific screenings are completed thoroughly, with no gaps on state forms; review and audit Medication Administration Records (MARs) against physician prescriptions; and verify that all medical appointments are scheduled, timely, and up to date.
• Active On-Site Supervision & Staff Development: Work alongside DSPs to monitor service delivery, assess staff-to-resident interactions, provide immediate clinical guidance, and deliver training or additional development support as needed.
• Direct Care Backup: Serve as an emergency safety net for the agency by stepping onto the floor to provide direct care support during critical staffing shortages or operational emergencies.
• Industry Awareness & Best Practices: Maintain a competitive edge by keeping up-to-date on the latest trends and advancements in the adult residential habilitation sector.​

Qualifications:

• Master's Degree, Bachelor's Degree, or Associate's Degree in a related field, along with experience working directly with individuals who have intellectual disabilities, developmental disorders, or Autism is required. All candidates must possess a minimum of 4 years of relevant experience as a Program Specialist, including supervisory responsibilities within a Residential Habilitation setting. All degrees must be obtained from an accredited college or university.
• Training in interpersonal dynamics, community participation, individual service planning and delivery, relationship building and other pertinent ODP trainings.
• Proficiency in ODP regulations, especially 6400 and 6100 guidelines
• Stellar communication skills both written and verbal, and an ability for building strong relationships
• Experience in data collection, analysis, and reporting
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and data management software
• Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously and prioritize effectively.
• Ability to work autonomously while also being a team player

If you are ready to be a driving force in creating a nurturing and empowering environment for individuals with IDD, and/or Autism, we invite you to apply for the Program Specialist position at our agency. Together, let's make a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve.

Personnel policies, procedures and practices will be designed to prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color, religious creed, disability, ancestry, national origin, age, or sex.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $50,000.00 - $55,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Flexible schedule
• Professional development assistance

Application Question(s):

• Are you willing and able to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, or emergency coverage as needed?

Education:

• Associate (Required)

Experience:

• Program Special in PA Chapter 6400: 4 years (Preferred)

License/Certification:

• Driver's License in good standing (Preferred)
• completion of the trainings required for this position. (Preferred)

Shift availability:

• Day Shift (Required)
• Night Shift (Required)
• Overnight Shift (Required)

Work Location: In person