Program Specialist

Description

A Program Specialist at Verland ,works with individuals who have intellectual and developmental disabilities, is the primary advocate for each individual assigned and will ensure that all medical concerns are addressed. The PS develops, supervises and coordinates each Individual Support Plan (ISP) for the individuals assigned, completes assessments, identifies strengths, needs, likes, interests and preferences, as well as the dislikes, for each individual. The Program Specialist position is salaried, exempt position. 

Responsibilities:

• Secure all necessary services to ensure all individuals’ needs are being met as specified in the individuals’ ISP.
• Complete / ensures all necessary documentation associated with the Individual Support Plans, Quarterly Reviews, ISP revisions and ISP process (I. E. invitations to meetings, development and implementation of the ISP, completing reviews, updating and revisions, accuracy of reports [to include dates and signatures] and reporting content discrepancy of the ISP to SC, as applicable, and team members) meet all State licensing requirements including 33b 1-19 regarding plan lead.
• Supervise, monitor, evaluate and/or make recommendations to the SC to revise a service or outcome in the ISP
• Provide assessment to the SC or plan lead at least 30 days prior to the ISP meeting.
• Review ISP with the individual and coordinate the services provided
• Provide documentation of the ISP review to the SC
• Inform plan team members of the option to decline the ISP 
• Review documents to meet State licensing requirements
• Monitor house funds and money relating to an individual’s needs
• Monitor Individual’s progress monthly 
• Provide ongoing training to staff relevant to each individual on the following areas: ISP and reviews, specific therapeutic needs, health and safety needs, medication needs, diet orders, and specific house needs etc.
• Schedule and attend (as needed) medical appointments, monitor medical follow-up appointment and ensure implementation of medical care.
• Maintain medication administration certification and maintain practicum observer certification by completing observations and monitoring staff/documentation relating to the medication process. Perform MAR reviews and medication checks.
• Act as Certified Investigator on an on-call basis when necessary.
• Perform other related duties upon request

Exceptional Employee Benefits include:

• Health, Dental and Vision Insurance at low cost
• Company-paid Life Insurance and Short-Term Disability
• Generous PTO Program
• HSA with employer contribution
• 403(b) Retirement Plan with employer match
• Two weeks paid training
• Tuition Reimbursement Program
• Wellness Program- including Telemedicine for Medical and Behavioral Health
• Employee Assistance Program
• Holiday Pay
• Benefits Waiver available

Requirements

• Must be able/willing to be on-call 24/7.
• Knowledge of current practices and regulations pertaining to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
• Effective verbal and written skills 
• Effectively monitor individual programming, providing hands-on implementation and staff training.
• Possess the ability and empathy needed to establish and maintain an effective working relationship with fellow employees, supervisory staff, Base Service Units, families of the individuals, and our co-representative.
• Demonstrate leadership and organizational skills.

Minimum Experience and Training: Program Specialist must have specialized training or one year’s experience in treating or working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and must possess one of the following:

• Master’s Degree from an accredited college and one year’s experience working directly with persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities;
• Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college and two years’ experience working directly with persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities
• Associate’s Degree or 60 credit hours from an accredited college and four years’ experience working directly with persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities or an equivalent combination of education and experience;
• Must complete all required clearances and maintain a valid Driver’s License.