This is a full time position requiring weekend and evening availability.
Position Summary
The Program Lead supports the Program Manager in the daily coordination, oversight, and operation of assigned BreakThrough Inc. residential and community-based programs. The Program Lead serves as a working lead, providing direct support to individuals while assisting with staff supervision, training, and program operations.
Individuals served are voluntarily placed through the Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) program and may range in age up to 21. Participants may have varying developmental levels and frequently present with dual diagnoses, including developmental disabilities and co-occurring behavioral health or mental health conditions.
The Program Lead is responsible for supporting the implementation of Individual Service Plans (ISP), treatment plans, and behavior support plans, while promoting safety, dignity, independence, and meaningful community integration in alignment with DCYF WAC 110-145, DDCS service standards, and the Medicaid HCBS Integrated Settings Rule.
This position plays a key role in ensuring staff are properly trained, supported, and following program expectations while maintaining a safe, structured, and therapeutic environment for individuals served.
Program Leads will be required to participate in an on-call rotation and must be able to respond to program needs within established timeframes. Program Leads are issued a company cell phone and are expected to use it to support program operations and communication.
Core Responsibilities/Essential Duties
Program Operations and Oversight
· Assist the Program Manager in coordinating daily program operations.
· Support the development and maintenance of a safe, structured, and supportive living environment.
· Help maintain the overall appearance and condition of the home, both inside and outside.
· Function as a key support person in maintaining program consistency and structure.
Direct Care and Client Support
· Provide direct care and supervision to individuals served.
· Assist with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) including bathing, toileting, hygiene, dressing, and meal preparation as needed.
· Ensure services are delivered in a manner that promotes dignity, privacy, and individual choice.
· Support individuals in developing independent living skills including:
o Meal preparation and household responsibilities
o Community participation
o Personal organization and daily routines
o Social and communication skills
Staff Training and Support
· Assist in training, mentoring, and supporting Support Staff.
· Provide hands-on guidance to ensure staff are implementing plans and providing appropriate care.
· Support onboarding of new staff, including shadow shifts and program orientation.
· Reinforce expectations related to supervision, ADL support, and behavior management.
Behavior and Treatment Support
· Participate in the development, implementation, and monitoring of Individual Behavior Support Plans and Treatment Plans.
· Support staff in understanding and appropriately implementing behavior strategies.
· Monitor client progress and communicate observations to the Program Manager and treatment team.
Communication and Collaboration
· Maintain ongoing communication with the Program Manager, administration, and treatment team.
· Assist in maintaining communication with parents, guardians, case managers, and other stakeholders as directed.
· Function as a positive representative of the program within the community when appropriate.
Emergency and On-Call Support
· Participate in the program’s on-call rotation as assigned.
· Respond to program needs, incidents, or emergencies within required.
· Serve as a primary back-up resource during emergency situations.
Documentation and Administrative Support
· Assist the Program Manager with completing required documentation, reports, and written plans.
· Ensure documentation completed by staff is accurate, timely, and compliant.
· Support implementation of policies and procedures.
Regulatory Compliance Responsibilities
The Program Lead supports compliance with all applicable regulations and agency standards, including:
· DCYF WAC 110-145 Group Care licensing requirements
· DDCS service standards
· Medicaid HCBS Integrated Settings Rule
· BreakThrough Inc. policies and procedures
Responsibilities include:
· Supporting appropriate client supervision and safety
· Assisting with implementation of Individual Service Plans and treatment goals
· Reinforcing person-centered practices and client rights
· Ensuring staff follow health, safety, and personal care protocols
· Reporting incidents and concerns in accordance with agency policy
· Supporting program readiness for licensing reviews and audits
Minimum Qualifications
Candidates must meet qualifications consistent with DCYF WAC 110-145 expectations for lead or supervisory roles.
Preferred qualifications include:
· Experience working with vulnerable populations, including individuals with developmental disabilities or behavioral health needs
· Demonstrated leadership or supervisory experience
· Ability to support individuals with varying developmental levels and dual diagnoses
· Strong communication, organization, and problem-solving skills
· Ability to train and support staff effectively
Additional requirements include:
· Valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record
· Successful completion of DCYF background check clearance
· Completion of required DCYF and DDA training requirements
· Ability to meet the physical and emotional demands of a residential care environment
Required Training and Certifications
Program Leads must complete and maintain all required training consistent with DCYF, DDA, and agency requirements, including but not limited to:
· Mandated Reporter Training
· CPR and First Aid Certification
· Bloodborne Pathogens Training
· HIV/AIDS Training (Washington State requirement)
· Medication Administration Training
· Behavioral Intervention / De-escalation Training (e.g., Right Response)
· Trauma-Informed Care
· Person-Centered Service Training (HCBS-aligned)
· Supervisory and leadership training as required
· Ongoing annual and refresher trainings
Physical and Environmental Requirements
The Program Lead must be able to perform duties in residential and community-based environments, including:
· Moving throughout program sites and community settings
· Assisting with client needs, including occasional physical support
· Lifting, bending, standing, and participating in daily program activities
· Responding effectively to crisis or emergency situations
· Using standard communication and documentation systems
Reasonable accommodations may be made in accordance with applicable laws.
Decision-Making Authority and Chain of Command
The Program Lead reports directly to the Program Manager and Administration team.
Within the scope of the role, the Program Lead has the authority to:
· Provide direction and support to Support Staff during assigned shifts
· Address immediate program needs and ensure continuity of care
· Reinforce program expectations and staff performance
· Support implementation of service plans and daily operations
The Program Lead is responsible for escalating significant concerns, incidents, or compliance issues to the Program Manager or administration in accordance with agency policy.
Work Remotely
Pay days are monthly on the 15th of the month.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $19.75 - $20.75 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Application Question(s):
- Licensing requires all staff be over 21. Are you at least 21 years old?
Education:
- High school or equivalent (Required)
Experience:
- Working with people with developmental disabilities: 1 year (Required)
License/Certification:
- Driver's License (Required)
Shift availability:
- Day Shift (Required)
- Night Shift (Required)
- Overnight Shift (Required)
Work Location: In person
