Lead Staff-Day Program

New Horizons in Autism Inc; Mahwah (NJ); On-site; USD 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

New Horizons in Autism, Inc. seeks a compassionate Day Program Lead Staff to support adults with autism and related developmental disabilities while mentoring Direct Support Professionals.

You will help maintain a positive, person-centered environment and lead by example.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent required.
• Minimum of one year of experience supporting individuals with autism or developmental disabilities in a day, residential, or special education setting.
• Strong communication, leadership, and organizational skills.
• Ability to remain calm, professional, and flexible in a fast-paced environment.
• Experience mentoring or leading staff is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Provide direct care and support to individuals with autism and developmental disabilities.
• Assist individuals with daily living skills, personal care, community activities, and ISP goals.
• Mentor and support Direct Support Professionals by modeling best practices.
• Help coordinate daily schedules, activities, and program operations.
• Maintain accurate documentation, including progress notes, incident reports, behavior data, and medication records.
• Ensure compliance with NHIA policies, DDD regulations, HIPAA, and safety procedures.
• Safely transport individuals using agency vehicles as needed.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Organizational skills

Mentoring staff

Calm under pressure

Flexibility

Education

High School Diploma

Job description

Lead by Example. Empower Others. Make a Difference.

New Horizons in Autism, Inc. (NHIA) is seeking a compassionate and dependable Day Program Lead Staff member to support adults with autism and other developmental disabilities while providing leadership and mentorship to our Direct Support Professionals (DSPs).

This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys working directly with individuals, leading by example, and helping create a positive, engaging, and person-centered environment.

Position Summary

The Day Program Lead Staff reports to the Program Supervisor and Coordinator and provides direct support to individuals while assisting with the daily operations of the Day Program. This role serves as a mentor to DSPs, helps maintain program quality and compliance, and ensures the safety, dignity, and well-being of the individuals we support.

Key Responsibilities

Provide direct care and support to individuals with autism and developmental disabilities.

Assist individuals with daily living skills, personal care, community activities, and Individual Support Plan (ISP) goals.

Mentor and support Direct Support Professionals by modeling best practices.

Help coordinate daily schedules, activities, and program operations.

Maintain accurate documentation, including progress notes, incident reports, behavior data, and medication records.

Ensure compliance with NHIA policies, DDD regulations, HIPAA, and safety procedures.

Safely transport individuals using agency vehicles as needed.

Promote a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for individuals and staff.

Qualifications

High School Diploma or equivalent required.

Minimum of one year of experience supporting individuals with autism or developmental disabilities in a day, residential, or special education setting.

Strong communication, leadership, and organizational skills.

Ability to remain calm, professional, and flexible in a fast-paced environment.

Experience mentoring or leading staff is a plus.

Requirements

Valid New Jersey Driver's License with an acceptable driving record.

Must be at least 20 years old.

Reliable transportation.

Ability to complete required DDD training within 90 days of hire.

Successful completion of criminal background check, CARI, Central Registry, and drug screening.

Physical Requirements

This position requires standing, walking, lifting, assisting with personal care, operating agency vehicles, implementing approved behavioral intervention techniques, and supporting individuals in community settings.

Why Join NHIA?

At New Horizons in Autism, you'll be part of a mission-driven team dedicated to helping individuals achieve greater independence and live meaningful lives. We offer ongoing training, opportunities for professional growth, and a supportive workplace where your leadership and compassion make a difference every day.

Join our team and help create brighter futures- one person, one success at a time.