Program Specialist-Hourly

Program Specialist – Life sharing

The Program Specialist supports individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) and Autism by ensuring high-quality Life sharing services that promote independence, dignity, and personal growth. This position is responsible for coordinating services, monitoring program quality, ensuring regulatory compliance, supporting Life sharing Providers, and promoting person-centered practices aligned with the principles of Everyday Lives.

The Program Specialist serves as a key resource for individuals, families, providers, and interdisciplinary teams to ensure services are delivered safely, effectively, and in accordance with Pennsylvania regulations and organizational standards.

• Foster an environment that empowers individuals with IDD and Autism through skill development, choice, self-advocacy, and person-centered planning.
• Support individuals in achieving goals and outcomes identified in their Individual Support Plans (ISP).
• Monitor the quality of services and supports to ensure health, safety, and well-being.
• Conduct individual assessments and complete required program documentation, including quarterlies and SEEPs, within established time frames.

• Ensure all services, goals, outcomes, and supports are accurately documented in accordance with PA Chapters 6100 and 6500 regulations.
• Organize and maintain individual records and program files to meet regulatory and agency standards.
• Monitor compliance with program requirements and licensing expectations.
• Assist Life sharing Providers in preparing for self-licensing assessments and regulatory reviews.

• Provide guidance, coaching, and ongoing support to Life sharing Providers and Direct Support Professionals (DSPs).
• Facilitate required trainings and educational opportunities for providers and staff.
• Promote best practices that support person-centered services and positive outcomes.

• Attend and actively participate in interdisciplinary team meetings and planning sessions.
• Develop and maintain professional relationships with Supports Coordination Organizations (SCOs), Administrative Entities (AEs), the Office of Developmental Programs (ODP), and other community partners.
• Effectively communicate with individuals, families, providers, and stakeholders to ensure coordinated service delivery.

• Serve as the program's primary Incident Management contact within the Enterprise Incident Management (EIM) system.
• Respond to, document, and monitor incidents in compliance with applicable regulations and agency policies.
• Participate in an on-call rotation to provide support outside of regular business hours as needed.

• Complete a minimum of 24 hours of professional and service-related training annually.
• Participate in supervision, performance management, and professional development activities.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support program operations and organizational goals.

• Strong knowledge of Pennsylvania Chapters 6100 and 6500 regulations.
• Understanding of person-centered practices and the Everyday Lives philosophy.
• Excellent organizational, problem-solving, and time-management skills.
• Strong interpersonal, verbal, and written communication abilities.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities effectively.
• Ability to engage individuals, Life sharing Providers, and Direct Support Professionals in positive, supportive, and professional interactions.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and basic computer systems.
• Strong commitment to maintaining confidentiality and protecting individual rights.

• Candidates must meet one of the following requirements:
• Master's Degree from an accredited institution and 1 year of experience directly supporting individuals with intellectual disabilities or autism; or
• Bachelor's Degree from an accredited institution and 2 years of experience directly supporting individuals with intellectual disabilities or autism; or
• Associate…