Program Lead

Merakey; Downingtown (Chester County); On-site; USD 24,796 - 33,062; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive medical, dental, and vis

Retirement plan

DailyPay or similar payroll access

Well-being resources

Backup care resources

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Tuition reimbursement

Employee discounts

Online learning access

Job summary

Merakey in Downingtown, PA is seeking a Program Lead to oversee day‑to‑day operations of a residential program. The role reports to the Program Manager and may manage a caseload of participants, ensuring high‑quality services and client safety.

Responsibilities include staff guidance, scheduling, direct care, medication administration, and coordination of program activities. Shift is 2nd shift with specific hours; benefits and comprehensive coverage are provided.

Qualifications

• Must be 18 years old or older.
• High school diploma/G.E.D. or 4–5 years of experience in a human services residential setting.
• 1–3 years of total experience required.

Responsibilities

• Lead staff and act as point person when on shift.
• Prepare and manage house schedules with the Program Manager.
• Provide direct care responsibilities including ADLs, meal prep, and supervision.
• Medication management and administration.
• Coordinate incident management with Program Manager and QCO.
• Oversee household operations including menu planning, groceries, and housekeeping.
• Ensure upkeep and maintenance of the assigned home along with daily tasks.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Communication skills

Conflict resolution

Education

High school diploma or GED

NADSP Certification (within first year)

Job description

Program Lead

Are you looking for an opportunity to advance your career while working with an extraordinary team? At Merakey, we put heart and soul into everything we do. We are seeking a Program Lead to join our team in Downingtown, PA.

Earn $21 with the selection of Enhanced Pay + Benefits.

Shift available – 2nd shift Tuesday through Thursday 3p to 10p and Saturday 10a to 10p.

Responsibilities

The Program Lead plays a critical role in the day‑to‑day management and oversight of specific programs or services within their identified Division. Reporting to the Program Manager, this position is responsible for coordinating program activities and ensuring the delivery of high-quality services to program participants. This role may manage a caseload of their own.

Required Competencies

• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and conflict resolution skills
• Ability to prioritize tasks, manage multiple responsibilities, and meet deadlines in a fast‑paced environment
• Ability to make quick decisions and remain calm under pressure
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team

Staff Management Responsibilities

• Provide guidance, support, and direction to staff members
• Assign duties and responsibilities to staff based on program needs and individuals' strengths
• Conduct regular check‑ins and provide feedback to staff regarding performance and areas for improvement

Client Care and Safety

• Ensure the safety and security of clients and staff by enforcing program policies and procedures
• Monitor client behavior and intervene as necessary to de‑escalate conflicts or address concerns
• Respond to emergencies or crises effectively, following established protocols and seeking assistance as needed

Specific Job Functions

• Acts as Lead staff and point person when on shift
• Prepares and manages house schedules in coordination with the Program Manager
• Direct Care responsibilities to include but not limited to ADL's, food preparation/feeding, maintaining required supervision requirements
• Medication management and administration
• Incident Management in coordination with Program Manager and QCO
• Manages all household needs to include but not limited to menu development, grocery shopping, housekeeping
• Ensure ongoing upkeep and maintenance of assigned home
  • Ensures overall cleanliness ongoing
  • Daily maintenance needs (lightbulbs, filter cleanings, etc.)
  • Identifies needed repairs and submits maintenance request

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, plus access to healthcare advocacy support.
• Retirement plan -- both pre‑tax and Roth (after‑tax) options available for employee contributions.
• DailyPay -- access your pay when you need it!
• On the Goga well‑being platform, featuring self‑care tools and resources.
• Access Care.com for backup childcare, elder care, and household services.
• Confidential counseling, legal, and financial services through our Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Tuition reimbursement and educational partnerships.
• Employee discounts and savings programs on entertainment, travel, and lifestyle.
• Access to Pryor Online Learning for free online personal development classes.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Merakey is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer! We deeply value diversity and do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, ethnic background, sex, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, genetic information, or disability status. Moreover, we are committed to creating teams that reflect the diversity of the communities we serve and encourage applicants from underrepresented backgrounds to apply. Merakey welcomes all Veterans to apply!

Qualifications

• Must be 18 years old.
• Must have a verifiable High School diploma/G.E.D. or 4-5 years' experience working in a human services residential setting.
• 1-3 total years of experience required.
• Willingness to obtain NADSP Certification within first year of hire, if required.