Community Service Program Manager

Exceptional Persons Inc; Waterloo (IA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Life insurance

Pet insurance

Paid time off

401(k) with employer match

Telemedicine

Leadership development

Job summary

Exceptional Persons Inc. seeks a Community Service Program Manager to lead and support community living programs serving adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities, serious mental illness, and brain injury.

This hands‑on leadership role focuses on dignity, safety, quality services, and strong relationships with individuals served, families, and partners. You will oversee daily operations, coach DSPs, coordinate training, and advocate for individuals served, ensuring compliance and

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Services, Social Work, or a related field required (Equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered).
• Two (2) years of experience coordinating or delivering disability services required.
• One (1) year of supervisory experience preferred.
• Strong leadership, organization, and problem‑solving skills.
• Clear and professional written and verbal communication.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and respond calmly in stressful situations.
• Ability to work day shifts with occasional flexibility to work evenings, weekends, travel, or respond to emergent needs.
• General computer proficiency and willingness to learn electronic systems.
• Valid driver’s license, reliable vehicle, acceptable driving record, and auto insurance.
• Ability to pass an extensive background check, including Dependent Adult and Child Abuse registries, Sex Offender registry, criminal history, driving records, and a post‑offer drug screen.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the daily operations of community living programs, ensuring health, safety, compliance, and person‑centered supports.
• Lead, coach, and supervise Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) through hiring, training, performance management, and retention efforts.
• Coordinate and document staff participation in orientation, in‑service training, and ongoing professional development.
• Advocate for individuals served while maintaining open, respectful communication with families, case managers, and community partners.
• Assist with service development, including intake, referrals, housing coordination, and determining appropriate levels of support.
• Monitor program quality, documentation, financial stewardship, and regulatory compliance.
• Observe trends, gather feedback, and respond to training and support needs.
• Participate in an on‑call rotation as determined by the Program Director.
• Provide direct support to individuals served as needed to ensure safety, continuity of care, and quality outcomes.

Skills

Leadership

Organization

Problem-solving

Communication

Stress management

People management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Human Services, Social Work, or related field

Tools

Electronic systems

Job description

Support Independence with Purpose – Lead a Mission That Changes Lives

At EPI, we don’t just talk about impact — we live it every single day. Since 1957, we’ve been connecting people, creating opportunities, and nurturing growth for our community. As a designated eight‑time Employer of Choice, our work is grounded in four core values: People, Stewardship, Creative Cooperation, and Integrity.

Where Leadership, Advocacy, and Impact Come Together

We are seeking a Community Service Program Manager to lead and support community living programs serving adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities, serious mental illness, and brain injury.

This is a hands‑on leadership role focused on dignity, safety, quality services, and strong relationships. Program Managers support teams, advocate for individuals served, ensure compliance, and help people live meaningful, engaged lives in their communities.

If you are a compassionate leader who thrives in people‑focused work and wants a role where your decisions and leadership make a daily difference, this position offers real purpose and growth.

Working at EPI Has Its Benefits. Many Benefits.

Full benefits are offered for full‑time positions (30+ hours/week):

• Health, dental, vision, and life insurance (including pet insurance)
• Generous paid time off
• 401(k) with employer match up to 6% (also available to part‑time employees; must be 21 or older)
• Free telemedicine and virtual counseling
• Paid training and leadership development

  Purpose in Action. Leadership Starts Here.

  In this role, you will:

  • Oversee the daily operations of community living programs, ensuring health, safety, compliance, and person‑centered supports.
  • Lead, coach, and supervise Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) through hiring, training, performance management, and retention efforts.
  • Coordinate and document staff participation in orientation, in‑service training, and ongoing professional development.
  • Advocate for individuals served while maintaining open, respectful communication with families, case managers, and community partners.
  • Assist with service development, including intake, referrals, housing coordination, and determining appropriate levels of support.
  • Monitor program quality, documentation, financial stewardship, and regulatory compliance.
  • Observe trends, gather feedback, and respond to training and support needs.
  • Participate in an on‑call rotation as determined by the Program Director.
  • Provide direct support to individuals served as needed to ensure safety, continuity of care, and quality outcomes.

  Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Human Services, Social Work, or a related field required
    (Equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered)
  • Two (2) years of experience coordinating or delivering disability services required
  • One (1) year of supervisory experience preferred
  • Strong leadership, organization, and problem‑solving skills
  • Clear and professional written and verbal communication
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities and respond calmly in stressful situations
  • Ability to work day shifts with occasional flexibility to work evenings, weekends, travel, or respond to emergent needs
  • General computer proficiency and willingness to learn electronic systems
  • Valid driver’s license, reliable vehicle, acceptable driving record, and auto insurance
  • Ability to pass an extensive background check, including Dependent Adult and Child Abuse registries, Sex Offender registry, criminal history, driving records, and a post‑offer drug screen

  Here’s What We’re Looking For.

  • Integrity — Doing what’s right and maintaining confidentiality and ethical standards
  • Dependability — Showing up, following through, and leading by example
  • Communication — Building trust through clear, respectful conversations
  • Leadership — Supporting staff growth while keeping individuals served at the center
  • Commitment to inclusion, dignity, and relationships

  EPI is an equal opportunity employer.

  Connecting People, Creating Opportunities, and Nurturing Growth Since 1957