The Program Specialist provides leadership on required program systems, policies, and procedures, assuring the completion of outcomes, including the administration of information, evaluation, development, management, and reporting within the organization. Assists in the hiring, development, and training of staff in the implementation of an array of systems. Ensures proper standards and regulations are adhered to as required by the agency and external funding sources. Exercises professional judgment and initiative regarding specific program and personnel needs. Mentors and advises staff in how to develop and network strategic relationships with peers, family members, professional, state, business, internal and community stakeholders. The Program Specialist will be a member of the new development team and participate in all required aspects of expansion

The essential job duties/responsibilities of the position include but are not limited to the information listed
below:
• Provides a level of expertise and training in program systems, as needed.
• Provides direction, training, and coaching; conduct program reviews, provides guidance on career development.
• Trains staff in responding to internal and external data collection and reporting requests.
• Coaches staff appropriately with the goal of optimizing effort and achieving operational and fiscal goal.
• Directs and manages the activities of programs and program staff during vacancies, in conjunction with the SPD and DOS
• Mentors and trains staff in providing outreach and creation of environments in which family, friends, and established relationships of the person served can be fostered.
• Maintains and enhances staff’s knowledge of industry issues, trends, and techniques.
• Assists in hiring staff, as necessary.
• Participates in the development and design of new program start-ups.
• Assists in developing systems and procedures for the effective and efficient operation of the division.

Prog Spec Res MA BI 2
• Analyze systems and resolves issues in conjunction with the Sr. Program Directors, Program Directors, Nurses, and direct care staff.
• Serves as a liaison to DOS and VP regarding program/personnel related issues.
• Provides on-site support and interventions, when necessary 
• Assists in ensuring that regulatory and quality standards and procedures are adhered to.
• Assesses agency and community needs and propose solutions.
• Assists in ensuring maintenance and safety of program.
• Fosters teamwork and leadership in work groups.
• Reviews and updates documentation in individuals’ records, program log, and program records, as required.
• Performs in-service trainings and staff meetings, as needed. Performs orientation of new staff.
• Ensures compliance with all internal and external regulatory bodies.
• Participates in corporate-wide initiatives and systems.
• Participates in professional conferences and workshops
• Teaches classes at regional training facilities, as required.
• Represents Vinfen in professional, trade, regulatory, and funding source organizations;
participates in committees, meetings, and other activities, as requested.
• Complies with all corporate and divisional policies and procedures, including safe work practices, worker’s compensation, universal precautions, and exposure control.
• Performs other related duties, as required.

Knowledge and Skills:
• Knowledge of human services relative to current assignment Sensitivity to cultural, religious, racial, disability, and gender issues Excellent organizational and writing skills
• Ability to balance many competing priorities Ability to negotiate, mediate, and resolve conflicts
• Ability to provide leadership and team management to staff Knowledge of operations management procedures and practices Knowledge of risk management
• Knowledge and use of different learning and communication styles Participatory skills, collaborative skills, teaching skills
• Knowledge of documentation requirements and regulations
• Ability to work independently and as part of an interdisciplinary team Ability to work in a professional and confidential capacity
• Knowledge of human, legal, civil rights, community, and other resources Knowledge of empowerment, self-advocacy and peer support techniques Knowledge of personal computer applications and equipment Knowledge of participatory planning techniques
• Knowledge of formal and informal assessment practices
• Knowledge of available equipment, therapies, and service providers

Established in 1977, Vinfen is a nonprofit, health and human services organization and a leading provider of community-based services to individuals with mental health conditions, intellectual and developmental disabilities, brain injuries, and behavioral health challenges. Our services and advocacy promote the recovery, resiliency, habilitation, and self-determination of the people we serve. Vinfen's 3,500 dedicated employees are experienced, highly-trained professionals who provide a full range of supportive living, health, educational, and clinical services in over 550 sites throughout Massachusetts and Connecticut. For more information about Vinfen, please visit www.vinfen.org/careers.

My Job. My Community. My Vinfen.

Vinfen is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran status, or disability status.

Typical Requirements:
A minimum of two years’ experience in progressively responsible human services functions preferred. 

Preferred /Required Education:
A high school diploma or equivalent is required; Bachelor’s degree preferred. In some cases, experience may be substituted for academic training.

Prog Spec Res MA BI 3

Driving Requirements:
May be called on to drive for Vinfen using either a Vinfen van or personal vehicle. A valid driver's license must be presented at the time of employment. Incumbents must be at least 21 years of age, have maintained a valid US driver's license for at least one year, and must be able to pass a driver's screening background check. If driving, must maintain a safe driving record, which is subject to annual checks. If using a personal vehicle, must possess and maintain adequate insurance.

Physical Effort:
Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, stoop, crouch, crawl, climb as this is a very physically active position.
Must be able to lift at least 25 pounds using proper lifting techniques or the use of a two-person lift.
Ability to operate a computer and other office equipment such as a calculator, copier, and printer. Ability to sit, reach, climb stairs, and maneuver through narrow spaces or hallways. Ability to assist clients with  tasks of daily living. Ability to remain in a stationary position 50% of the time as needed. Ability to bend, reach, file, sit, stand, and move around the facility. Ability to speak, hear, and communicate with clients, staff, and external representatives. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
For positions in day programs or group residences, the ability to assist in routine living activities including cleaning, meal preparation, vacuuming, shoveling, and grocery shopping.

Required Certifications:
CPR required within two weeks of hire
First Aid required within two weeks of hire 
MAP required within 150 days of hire 
Safety Care required within 90 days of hire