Community Programs Manager - Full Time Opportunity Available!

Arc of Onondaga County; City of Syracuse (NY); Hybrid; USD 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote work

12 paid holidays annually

Health benefits

401(k) retirement plan with employer  

Professional development

Job summary

Arc of Onondaga, based in Syracuse, NY, seeks a Community Programs Manager to lead diverse community-based programs for children, youth, and adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities.

The role involves supervising staff, developing new programming, and fostering inclusion, collaboration with families and partner agencies, and ensuring high-quality services that empower individuals to participate in their communities.

Qualifications

• Associate's Degree in Human Services or related field required.
• At least 2 years of experience with individuals with developmental disabilities.
• At least 1 year of supervisory experience.
• Valid NYS driver's license and acceptable driving record.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations of assigned community programs.
• Develop and implement engaging programs for individuals with developmental disabilities.
• Plan respite and recreational opportunities, ensure staffing and coverage.
• Supervise and develop staff, including hiring and evaluations.
• Build partnerships with participants, families, and community organizations.
• Identify new program opportunities and coordinate intakes.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Problem-solving

Education

Associate's Degree in Human Services

Bachelor's Degree in Human Services

Tools

Microsoft Outlook

Microsoft Word

Job description

Arc of Onondaga | Community Services

Community Programs Manager

Are you a compassionate, organized leader who is passionate about creating meaningful opportunities for individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities? Arc of Onondaga is seeking a Community Programs Manager to lead and grow a variety of community-based programs serving children, youth, and adults.

This is an excellent opportunity for a hands‑on professional who enjoys developing programs, supporting staff, building community partnerships, and making a meaningful difference in the lives of the people we serve.

About the Position

The Community Programs Manager is responsible for the coordination, development, and day‑to‑day oversight of several non-certified community programs, including:

• Community Habilitation
• Respite services
• Recreation programs
• Integrated camp support
• Arts and music programs

The Manager will supervise program staff, ensure appropriate staffing and participant support, develop new programming, and help create opportunities that promote inclusion, community involvement, and personal growth.

This position reports to the Chief Program Officer – Community Services.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the daily operations of assigned community programs and services.
• Develop and implement engaging programs and activities for individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities.
• Plan, promote, and coordinate respite and recreational opportunities.
• Ensure appropriate staffing, scheduling, training, and program coverage.
• Supervise, support, and develop direct‑report staff, including hiring, performance evaluations, training, and disciplinary actions.
• Build positive relationships with participants, families, caregivers, community organizations, and other service providers.
• Identify emerging community needs and develop new programs, partnerships, and services.
• Coordinate with Plan Coordination to facilitate participant intakes.
• Establish appropriate safety and supervision guidelines based on individual needs.
• Conduct interest assessments to help guide future programming and services.
• Maintain accurate participant records, payroll information, schedules, statistics, and compliance documentation.
• Develop grant proposals and seek outside funding opportunities to support program growth.
• Participate in agency committees, meetings, trainings, and Life Plan meetings as required.
• Review and assist with developing agency policies and procedures.
• Provide direct support to individuals and cover staff call‑outs when necessary to ensure continuity of services.
• Continuously identify opportunities to expand existing programs and develop new community collaborations.
• Support the mission and values of Arc of Onondaga through professionalism, teamwork, compliance, and respect for individuals served and staff.

Qualifications

Required:

• Associate's Degree in Human Services or a related field.
• At least 2 years of experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities.
• At least 1 year of related supervisory experience.
• Valid New York State driver's license and driving record acceptable to the Agency's insurance carrier.
• Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Outlook and Word.
• Ability to learn and independently use agency software and electronic documentation systems.
• Ability to use mapping and navigation programs such as Google Maps.
• Strong organizational, communication, leadership, and problem‑solving skills.

Preferred:

• Bachelor's Degree in Human Services or a related field.
• Experience developing and coordinating community‑based programs.
• Experience with database management and report development.
• Experience with grant writing or identifying funding opportunities.

A combination of education and experience that, in the judgment of the employer, meets the above standards may be considered.

Schedule

This position generally follows a Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m. schedule, with flexibility to work evenings and weekends as needed to support program activities and the needs of individuals served.

What We Offer

At Arc of Onondaga, we believe our employees deserve the same care, support, and opportunities that we provide to the individuals and families we serve.

Excellent Work‑Life Balance

• Flexible scheduling, including opportunities for remote work
• Generous paid time off
  • 12 paid holidays annually
  • Vacation time
  • Sick leave
  • Personal days
• Supportive, collaborative, and family‑friendly workplace culture

Competitive Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Employer‑funded Health Savings Account (HSA)
• 401(k) retirement plan with employer matching contributions
• Employee Resource Coordination Programs
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) eligibility
• Tuition reimbursement

Growth & Development

• Ongoing professional development opportunities
• Career advancement opportunities
• Training and support to help you grow within the organization

Physical & Safety Requirements

This position involves direct responsibility for the safety and well‑being of individuals receiving services. The role requires the ability to follow agency and legal safety requirements and to ensure staff maintain appropriate safety practices.

The position may require routine physical exertion, including lifting up to 50 pounds while assisting individuals, moving materials, or operating equipment. The role also requires the ability to sit, stand, and walk for extended periods and may involve exposure to varying environmental conditions.

Make a Difference With Us

At Arc of Onondaga, your work has a direct impact on individuals, families, and the community. As Community Programs Manager, you will have the opportunity to lead a dedicated team, develop innovative programs, build meaningful community partnerships, and help individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities participate fully in their communities.

Arc of Onondaga is committed to equal employment opportunity.

We recruit, employ, train, compensate, and promote without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, disability, protected veteran status, or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state or local law.