PROGRAM DIRECTOR, COMMUNITY EMPLOYMENT

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

A. Program Functions

1. Direct the day to day operations of Community Employment Services. Working with Case Managers, Job Retention Counselors and Job Development Coordinators to create and manage employment opportunities in community based businesses that meet the interest, skill level and support needs of the individuals served. Develop an employment and contact portfolio (to include pertinent information) of employers.

2. Utilize customized employment techniques to create job opportunities for people with significant differing abilities. Develop relationships with strategic partners and manage projects in the area of employment.

3. Develop a positive working relationship with Melwood's Facilities Management Services, making them a partner in job placement and retention activities. Work with Melwood Executive staff to have the Facilities Management Services be a viable employment option for people of all abilities.

4. Develop a positive working relationship with Melwood's Vocational Support Services, partnering to provide quality support and services to individuals in shared services.

5. Conduct analysis of job placement and retention services; ensuring benchmarks are being met. Ensures that the individual needs of each person served are being met and the job matches are designed to be successful with appropriate levels of support and supervision.

6. Network with the business community by becoming an active member of the Chambers of Commerce, business networks and other community/employment resources.

7. Market tax and other incentives available to employers who hire individuals with differing abilities.

8. Works with division administration on new intakes by interviewing potential program participants, overseeing DDA and other funding sources Service Funding Plans and making recommendations on intakes and discharges from the program.

9. Monitor and supervise the development of individual goals for each individual and supervises the implementation and documentation of IP goals for which staff in the program are responsible.

10. Ensure that service funding plans (DDA contract with provider agencies) reflect services that will successfully support persons served.

11. Identify and communicate strengths and areas of improvement for individuals and possible methods of enhancing strengths and minimizing weaknesses, utilizing progress notes and/or other assessment related tools and/or records.

12. Respond to inquiries/requests from persons served, family, caregivers, peers and all other internal and external customers in a timely manner.

13. Provide immediate support in crisis intervention in areas such as, but not limited to immediate on-site intervention, problem analysis and initial recommendations.

14. Maximize individuals' participation in the team process and promote opportunities for persons served to lead their team meetings.

15. Ensure individuals' fundamental rights (COMAR 10.22.04) and satisfactory conclusion to incident reports in a timely manner.

16. Act as a facilitator at team meetings as needed; arranges interim team meetings as indicated. Oversee post individualized plan development activities within 20 days of the meeting. Develop outcomes, goals, and strategies based upon planning results. Distribute data collection sheets and individualized plan meeting documentation to appropriate personnel. Ensure and/or provides applicable training for direct support staff.

17. Develop a working relationship with stakeholders that facilitate program outreach and ensure that the services offered remain relevant to the individuals' needs and the agency's mission.

18. Act as a liaison to family members/caregivers, external advocates (e.g. DSS Guardians, Resource Coordinators) and other service providers.

A. Administrative Functions

19. Complete appropriate management and division reports as assigned by Director, Community Based Programs and Vice President, Community Services Division.

20. Develop and maintain standard operating procedures for all Job Exploration and Development programs.

21. Represent Melwood and advocates its interests in the community and develops a network of community resources for Community Employment Services.

22. Assist in developing, implementing and monitoring fiscal year operating budget for assigned departments, adjusting expenses as needed to meet projected budget.

23. Supervise, mentor and train assigned staff; conduct supervision meetings, evaluates staff and works with them on training plans.

24. Coordinate pertinent orientation and ongoing in-service training for Community Employment Services staff, ensuring direct support staff receive updated information on the latest trends and best practices in the field. Monitor the provision of specific needs training for new and incumbent staff.

25. Work with human resources department in hiring, orientation, and evaluation of direct support staff. Make recommendations for changes in staffing patterns, new hires and separation.

26. Adhere to and further the mission of Melwood by creating a supportive environment for participants and staff.

27. Adhere to State of Maryland COMAR Regulations, CARF Standards and Melwood policies and procedures.

28. Actively participate in management team, interdisciplinary and staff meetings.

29. Other duties as assigned.

SUPERVISION EXERCISED

The Program Director, Community Support Services supervises assigned Case Managers, Job Retention Counselors, Job Development Coordinators and Work Experience Group (WEG) Coordinators.