Day Program Manager

The Day Program Manager oversees the daily operations of a Community Day Program site serving individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities under the Alabama DMH Community Waiver Program. This role ensures that programming is person-centered, safe, and compliant with CARF and HCBS Settings Rule standards, while building a schedule of meaningful, community-integrated activities. The Manager supervises direct support staff, coordinates with families and support coordinators, and monitors individual progress toward person-centered plan goals. This is a hands-on leadership role that blends operational management with direct engagement with people served.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities
• Manage daily schedule, staffing, and programming for the Community Day Program site
• Supervise, train, and evaluate Direct Support Professionals and Activity Coordinators
• Ensure implementation of person-centered plans and documentation of progress toward individual goals
• Coordinate with families, guardians, and support coordinators on individual programming and concerns
• Monitor site compliance with ADMH, CARF, and HCBS Settings Rule requirements
• Oversee incident reporting and follow-up through the Incident Prevention & Management System (IPMS)
• Plan and facilitate community outings and integrated activities that promote inclusion
• Manage program budget, supplies, and vehicle scheduling for site activities
• Conduct regular staff meetings and ongoing training on person-centered practices
• Complete required documentation, billing support records, and state reporting on time
• Respond to and de-escalate behavioral or medical incidents according to protocol
• Participate in interdisciplinary team meetings and annual plan reviews

Preferred IDD-Focused Responsibilities
• Champion a person-centered, rights-based approach in all program activities and decisions
• Support individuals' choice and self-determination in daily schedules and community activities
• Apply CQL Personal Outcome Measures to guide program planning and individual goal-setting
• Promote community inclusion consistent with the HCBS Settings Rule
• Uphold dignity and use positive behavior support strategies in all staff interactions with individuals
• Partner with families and support coordinators to align programming with each person's plan

Minimum Qualifications
• Bachelor's degree in human services, education, or related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience
• Minimum 2 years of experience working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities
• Minimum 1 year of supervisory or lead staff experience
• Valid Alabama driver's license with an acceptable driving record
• Ability to pass a statewide/criminal background check confirming no convictions for crimes of violence, abuse, neglect, exploitation, or any felony offense
• Pre-employment drug screen and TB test as required by Alabama Medicaid Agency (AMA Policy #WAV37)
• Current or ability to obtain First Aid & CPR certification
• Completion of ADMH pre-service training requirements within 90 days of hire

Preferred Qualifications
• QDDP qualification (bachelor's in human services field plus 1+ year IDD experience)
• Experience with CARF accreditation standards or HCBS Settings Rule compliance
• Prior experience managing a day program or residential site budget
• Familiarity with the Incident Prevention & Management System (IPMS)

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities (KSAs)
• Strong leadership and staff supervision skills
• Knowledge of person-centered planning principles and practices
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic, activity-based environment
• Effective written and verbal communication with families, staff, and state partners
• Conflict resolution and crisis de-escalation skills
• Basic budgeting and scheduling proficiency
• Cultural competency and commitment to inclusion
• Proficiency with basic office software and documentation systems

Physical & Essential Functions
• Ability to lift and assist individuals with mobility or transfer needs up to 50 lbs
• Ability to stand, walk, and move throughout the facility and community settings for extended periods
• Ability to respond quickly to behavioral or medical emergencies
• Ability to drive agency vehicles for community outings
• Occasional bending, stooping, and reaching required for activity setup

Work Environment
• Community day program facility with regular offsite community outings
• Moderate noise level with active group programming
• Exposure to varying weather conditions during outings and transport
• Fast-paced environment requiring flexibility and multitasking

Qualifications

· Bachelor’s Degree in education, psychology, or other related human service field, or 3-5 years’ experience working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Skills & Competencies

· Strong organizational and leadership skills.

· Ability to analyze data and monitor progress.

· Effective communication and interpersonal skills.

· Knowledge of habilitation planning and training techniques.

· Commitment to person-centered care and advocacy.