Program Director - Youth Shelter

Youth and Family Advocates; Town of Florida (NY); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Youth and Family Advocates is seeking a Program Director to oversee residential shelter operations and manage staff compliance with regulations. The role encompasses supervising team members, budget management, and ensuring adherence to trauma-informed care principles.

The ideal candidate holds a degree in social work and has several years of experience in social services and supervisory roles. This position involves direct engagement with the community to ensure effective service delivery and safety standards.

Qualifications

• 4 years of experience working with children or 2 years with a master's degree.
• Experience in a supervisory capacity in social services is required.
• Knowledge of trauma-informed practices is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day operations of residential shelter.
• Supervise team members and ensure compliance with standards.
• Coordinate community partnerships to enhance service delivery.

Skills

Effective communication

Trauma-informed care

Team leadership

Microsoft Office Suite proficiency

Empathy towards individuals

Education

Bachelor’s degree in social work or related area

Master’s degree in social work or related area (preferred)

Job description

Job Summary

The Program Director is responsible overseeing day to day operation of residential shelter, supervises team members and manages regulations/standards compliance, facility-specific human resources functions, budget development/monitoring, building maintenance, and implementation of the youth development system.

In addition to the duties and requirements listed below, YFA expects employees to be committed to incorporating principles of trauma-informed care in all areas of service delivery. Commitment to these principles is demonstrated through active participation in agency-required trainings, use of trauma-informed practices, and understanding that trauma-informed environments require cultural sensitivity and an emphasis on a safe and respectful environment for all.

Essential Job Functions

• Oversees and coordinates with the shelter leaders to ensure timely completion of contractual requirements including but not limited to fire drills, mock emergency drills, health inspections, sharps count, chemical inventory, MSDS sheets, medication management, etc.
• Provide supervision to Assistant Program Director and specialty positions such as the cook, office specialist, outreach coordinator, counselor, case manager, and nurse
• Facilitate the delivery and compliance with the Youth Development System amongst all staff under direct supervision.
• Oversees QI process/system and compliance with COA standards. Prepare a monthly report to demonstrate progress on all action plans required of the shelter.
• Engage in continuous program improvement to enhance outcomes for children and families served within the program.
• Fully understands and follows all policy and procedures of YFA, DJJ, DCF, and Florida Network.
• Prepare and take the lead on any contract monitoring’s as the occur annually.
• Ensure collaboration with community providers and networks to ensure all children under different revenue streams are accessed and leveraged.
• Assures that all direct care and non-direct care staff are following the policies and procedures of YFA.
• Leads all staff meetings and attends external meetings in a timely manner as assigned by direct supervisor.
• Handles fundraising responsibilities as needed.
• Oversees and ensures compliance with licensing standards and budgetary requirements.
• Participates on community/regional committees, workgroups, collaborative teams as needed.
• Oversee recruitment, hiring, training, and disciplinary actions.
• Oversees and ensures compliance with Department of Health (DOH) food program including budgetary requirements.
• Provides guidance in the preparation of probationary and annual performance evaluations of youth development staff.
• Identifies and coordinates comprehensive training needs of all staff.
• Ensure annual strategic goals are developed and maintained for the program and employees.
• Trained and authorized to access protected health information.
• Facility Maintenance Oversight: Ensure regular maintenance and repairs of the shelter’s physical infrastructure, including plumbing, electrical systems, and structural elements, to guarantee a safe and functional environment for residents and staff.
• Cleanliness Management: Implement and supervise daily and periodic cleaning schedules for all areas of the facility, ensuring that all living spaces, common areas, kitchens, and bathrooms are consistently clean and hygienic.
• Safety Inspections and Compliance: Conduct regular safety inspections to identify and address potential hazards, ensuring compliance with health, safety, and building regulations. Coordinate with relevant authorities for any required inspections and certifications.
• Vendor and Contractor Coordination: Cultivate relationships with internal facilities personnel to coordinate maintenance and repair services. Coordinate specialized services with external vendors as directed by facility personnel and standard operating procedures. Oversee contracts, schedule work, and ensure high‑quality service delivery within budget constraints.
• Inventory and Supplies Management: Maintain an inventory of cleaning and maintenance supplies, ensuring adequate stock levels. Order necessary supplies and equipment in a timely manner to prevent any disruptions in maintaining the facility's standards
• Provides support for staff that provide trauma informed care, through the promotion of employee self‑care, well‑being, and the Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Monitors and evaluates adherence to and effectiveness of practices and strategies for individuals impacted by trauma.

The above duties and responsibilities describe the general nature and level of work performed by people assigned to the job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all the duties and responsibilities that an incumbent may be expected or asked to perform.

REQUIREMENTS

Education & Experience

Bachelor’s degree in social work or in a related area of study and four (4) years of experience working with children; or master’s degree from an accredited college or university and at least two (2) years of experience in social services. At least one year of experience working in a residential facility is required. At least three (3) years of experience working as a shift leader, team leader, or in another supervisory capacity in social services is required.

Preferred knowledge and understanding of trauma‑informed principles and practices, including the importance of creating a safe environment, fostering trust, promoting collaboration, and empowering individuals.

• Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing
• Ability to understand and empathize with individuals, recognizing the impact of trauma on emotions, relationships, and overall well‑being
• Ability to build and maintain range of internal and external contacts
• Ability to monitor large groups and the varied group dynamics that may arise during scheduled activities
• Ability to work cooperatively in a group/team setting
• Ability to show respect to others
• Ability to work a flexible schedule including working during extreme weather events
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suites
• Skilled in actively listening to concerns, providing a safe space for individuals to express themselves without judgment or blame

Physical Requirements

Ability to travel regionally on a regular basis and statewide as needed. Ability to bend, lift, and carry 30 pounds.