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