Program Manager Job Description
Job Title: Program Manager Dept/Location:
Effective Date: July 13, 2026
FLSA Status: Compliant
Summary/Objective:
The Program Manager is responsible for the day-to-day operations and staff management of individuals with developmental disabilities. This role ensures compliance with regulations, provides direct support to individuals, and fosters a professional and positive environment.
Primary Job Duties & Essential Functions of the Position:
Compliance and Regulations:
• Ensure adherence to applicable Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities regulations and agency policies.
• Maintain working knowledge of relevant regulatory entities.
• Represent the agency in community or interagency activities (as needed).
• Attend required trainings and stay informed of industry developments.
• Assist with state audits and compliance reviews (as directed).
Staff Management:
• Participate in staff meetings and hold regular team meetings.
• Maintain appropriate staffing levels aligned with individual needs and safety.
• Oversee Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) assigned to the site.
• Ensure clear communication with families, guardians, and other stakeholders.
• Train DSPs on skill development, individual needs, and proper documentation.
• Complete and file all required training records (both staff and personal).
• Assist the Director of Operations in filling vacancies or DSP absences. Perform all DSP duties when necessary.
Professionalism and Leadership:
• Cultivate a professional and respectful work environment.
• Maintain composure and professionalism in challenging situations.
• Exemplify appropriate appearance, conduct, and communication.
• Provide day-to-day leadership aligned with the agency's mission and values.
Support of Individuals Served:
• Represent the agency in Individual Service Plan (ISP) meetings.
• Advocate for the rights of individuals served.
• Assist with transportation to appointments and activities.
• Collaborate with staff and supervisors to meet individual needs.
• Identify medical services, social activities, budgets, and recordkeeping requirements.
• Facilitate achievement of goals and outcomes outlined in ISPs.
• Report major incidents, unusual incidents, and medication errors.
• Organize or oversee recreational and community activities aligned with individual preferences.
• Ensure staff receive accurate information on individuals served.
Health and Safety:
• Assist with daily medication administration and healthcare activities.
• Ensure residences are safe and compliant, conducting safety drills as required.
• Report critical incidents and major issues to the Director of Operations.
• Respond to emergencies and take appropriate action.
• Provide on-call coverage and establish procedures for DSP guidance in your absence.
• Oversee the reporting and follow-up of major/unusual incidents and medication errors.
Records Management:
• Complete and file required documents (weekly site visits, medical summaries, etc.).
• Ensure timely completion of ISP-related documentation.
• Manage individual budgets and banking, reconciling accounts monthly.
• Ensure accurate and timely financial records and receipts.
• Maintain required documentation for individuals served (records, finances, benefits).
Supervisory Responsibility:
Directs the work of the Direct Support Professionals working at the assigned site.
Work Environment:
• The work environment includes varied residential settings and community locations.
• Potential exposure to unsanitary conditions, allergens, pets, pests, bodily fluids, etc.
• Requires understanding of infection control, safety techniques, and basic household hazards.
• Occasional exposure to extreme weather conditions.
• Requires frequent interaction with individuals served, families, and staff.
• Travel by car with exposure to changing weather conditions; moderate noise level.
• This job routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, copiers, filing cabinets and faxes
• Frequent contact and interaction with people receiving services, family, and employees
• While performing the duties of this position the employee travels by automobile and is exposed to changing weather conditions
• The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate
Physical Demands:
• Requires standing, walking, sitting, reaching, using stairs, talking/hearing.
• Frequent stooping, kneeling, bending, twisting, pulling, pushing, flexing, and crouching.
• Ability to lift, carry, or move up to 30 lbs. regularly, and up to 60 lbs. occasionally.
• Requires close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and focus adjustment.
Position Type/Expected Hours of Work:
This is a full-time position (40 hours/week); Days and hours vary with flexibility to work evenings, overnights, and weekends when necessary to meet the needs of the program. Fill in for absent employees when needed.
Travel:
• Primarily local travel during business hours (client homes, appointments, activities).
• Some out-of-area and overnight travel may be required.
Qualifications:
• High school diploma or GED (minimum).
• Basic computer skills (Microsoft Office Suite).
• One year of experience supporting individuals with developmental disabilities.
• One or more years of supervisory and management experience in human services.
Preferred Qualifications:
• Bachelor's degree in human or social services (or related field).
• Three or more years of supervisory and management experience in human services.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and other relevant applications.
Additional Requirements:
• Must pass background checks, including pre-employment physical and drug screen.
• Must be 21 years of age or older with a valid driver's license and liability insurance (if driving for work).
• Must be able to read, write, and understand English, effectively communicating with various stakeholders.
Disclaimer:
This job description is not exhaustive, and duties may change at any time.
