Program Specialist

Program Specialist/Strengthening Pathways

Monday – Friday – 7:30am – 4:00 pm

The Program Specialist – Strengthening Pathways is responsible for coordinating and supporting programs that expand opportunities for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities to access education, employment, independent living, and community inclusion. This role is in collaboration with families, service providers, employers, educational institutions, and community organizations to develop and implement supportive and person-centered pathways.

Qualifications

• A master’s degree from an accredited college or university and one year of work experience working directly with people with disabilities
• A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university and two years’ experience working directly with disabled persons OR
• An associate’s degree or 60 credit hours from an accredited college or university and 4 years of work experience in human services
• Pass pre-employment physical and PA State Police Background Check/FBI check, whichever is applicable

• Complete CPS training within 30 days of hire
• Experience working with adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) preferred.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Patience, empathy, and a commitment to promoting the rights and well-being of individuals with IDD.
• Lighthouse will provide training to obtain the Professional Certificate of Achievement in Employment Services from the Association of Community Rehabilitation Educators (ACRE)

Responsibilities

• Supervise DSPs to ensure accurate compliance with participants’ goals and daily documentation
• Have quarterly meetings with DSPs conducting performance reviews/goal setting implementation and coaching
• Provide behavioral support and guidance for participants with challenging behaviors, ensuring their safety and well-being.
• Provide assistance with toileting, including helping individuals use the bathroom, changing undergarments, and ensuring cleanliness and dignity during the process.
• Communicate with Supports Coordinators, families, specialists, residential staff, and others on the participants team
• Ensures all aspects of each participant’s assessment, ISP, and quarterly progress notes are completed in an accurate and timely fashion
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of participants’ progress, activities, and any incidents or concerns.
• Complete necessary reports and documentation in accordance with regulatory requirements and organizational policies.
• Address and resolve participant behavior
• Attends and participates in ISP meetings
• Review and sign off on staff documentation, time sheet review, adjustments, and approvals
• Provides coverage for DSPs as needed
• Respond to internal and external communications through phone, email, and regular mail.
• Print, scan, copy documentation for participant activities
• Attend professional development/team building training in person
• Work as a team player with colleagues to promote a positive and engaging work environment
• Complete annual required online training on Relias training platform
• Advocate for the rights of individuals with IDD in various settings, ensuring compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
• Participate in ongoing professional development and attend relevant training to stay current with best practices in the field.
• Support the mission and vision of Lighthouse Vocational Services
• Complete other tasks as assigned

Physical Requirements

• Able to lift and assist individuals as needed.
• Able to sit, stand, walk, bend, kneel, and reach for extended periods of time
• Able to move quickly in emergency situations.
• Ability to remain calm and focused in emergencies or challenging situations.
• Good vision and hearing to monitor participants, observe behavioral clues, and ensure safe environment
• Ability to clearly communicate with participants, families, and team members both verbally and in writing
• Ability to push and pull up to 40 pounds
• Able to work with potential body fluids and challenging behaviors