Day Program Manager

Company Description
LifeGate Healthcare Services Incorporated is a healthcare organization dedicated to providing high-quality, person-centered services to individuals in need of structured support during the day. The company focuses on promoting safety, independence, and meaningful engagement through thoughtfully designed day programs. LifeGate Healthcare Services collaborates with families, caregivers, and community partners to create inclusive environments that respect individual preferences and goals. Team members are supported with clear standards, training, and resources to deliver consistent, compassionate care. The organization values integrity, accountability, and collaboration in all aspects of its work.

Day Program Manager
Department: Day Habilitation Services
Position Summary
The Day Program Manager is responsible for the overall management and daily operations of the Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) Day Habilitation Program. The Day Program Manager ensures that services are person-centered, meaningful, and compliant with DDA regulations, COMAR requirements, agency policies, and Medicaid Waiver standards. This position provides leadership to staff, oversees program quality, ensures participant safety, promotes community integration, and supports individuals in achieving their personal goals and outcomes.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities – Program Management

Manage the daily operations of the DDA Day Habilitation Program.

Ensure the program operates in accordance with DDA regulations, COMAR, Medicaid Waiver requirements, and agency policies.

Develop and maintain a structured daily schedule of meaningful activities that promote independence, community participation, and skill development.

Ensure all participants receive services according to their Person-Centered Plan (PCP) and Individual Plan (IP).

Monitor participant attendance and service delivery documentation.

Ensure a safe, clean, and welcoming environment for individuals receiving services.

Coordinate transportation schedules and participant arrivals and departures.

Staff Leadership and Supervision

Recruit, interview, train, supervise, coach, and evaluate Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) and other assigned staff.

Conduct regular staff meetings and supervision sessions.

Prepare staff schedules and maintain adequate staffing ratios.

Monitor staff performance and provide corrective coaching when necessary.

Ensure all required employee training and certifications remain current.

Promote teamwork, professionalism, and a positive work culture.

Person-Centered Services

Ensure individuals participate in meaningful activities based on their interests, strengths, and personal goals.

Promote community integration, employment readiness, volunteer opportunities, recreational activities, and life skills development.

Encourage participant choice, dignity, independence, and self‑advocacy.

Collaborate with families, support coordinators, behavior professionals, nurses, and interdisciplinary teams.

Compliance and Quality Assurance

Maintain compliance with DDA, OHCQ, Medicaid Waiver, COMAR, and agency standards.

Review documentation for completeness, accuracy, and timeliness.

Conduct routine program audits and quality assurance reviews.

Prepare for DDA monitoring visits and licensing inspections.

Develop and implement corrective action plans when deficiencies are identified.

Maintain confidentiality in accordance with HIPAA requirements.

Incident and Risk Management

Ensure incidents are reported according to agency policy and DDA requirements.

Conduct follow‑up investigations as appropriate.

Monitor trends and implement preventive measures to reduce risks.

Ensure emergency preparedness procedures are followed.

Administrative Responsibilities

Prepare monthly reports and performance metrics.

Maintain participant files and required documentation.

Coordinate admissions, orientations, and discharges.

Attend interdisciplinary meetings and agency leadership meetings.

Assist with program development and continuous quality improvement initiatives.

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Human Services, Psychology, Social Work, Special Education, Healthcare Administration, or a related field preferred.

Associate degree with significant supervisory experience may be considered.

Experience

Minimum of three years' Experience managing a DDA Day Habilitation Program.

Minimum of three years of experience working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

At least two years of supervisory or management experience preferred.

Knowledge

Maryland DDA regulations and standards.

COMAR regulations applicable to Day Habilitation services.

Medicaid Waiver programs.

Person-Centered Planning.

Positive Behavior Supports.

HIPAA and confidentiality requirements.

Quality Assurance and performance improvement.

Skills

Strong leadership and supervisory abilities.

Excellent organizational and planning skills.

Effective communication and interpersonal skills.

Strong problem‑solving and conflict‑resolution skills.

Ability to manage multiple priorities.

Proficiency with Microsoft Office and electronic documentation systems.

Certifications

CPR and First Aid Certification (or ability to obtain upon hire).

Medication Administration Certification (if applicable).

Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record.

Ability to pass required background checks.

Physical Requirements

Ability to lift up to 50 pounds when necessary.

Ability to stand, walk, bend, and assist participants throughout the day.

Ability to accompany participants on community outings.

Ability to respond effectively during emergencies.

Work Schedule

Full‑time position.

Typical hours are Monday through Friday, approximately 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with flexibility based on program needs.

Occasional evenings or weekends may be required for special events, training, or emergency coverage.

Performance Expectations
The Day Program Manager is expected to:

Ensure compliance with all DDA and agency requirements.

Maintain high‑quality, person‑centered programming.

Foster a safe and engaging environment.

Support participant satisfaction and positive outcomes.

Develop and retain a skilled and motivated workforce.

Demonstrate professionalism, accountability, integrity, and ethical leadership.

#J-18808-Ljbffr