Program Lead
Community Integration & Vocational Services
Location: Lake County, CA
Job Type: Full-Time
Reports To: Program Manager
About Ability Road
Ability Road helps adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities build skills, find meaningful opportunities, and become active members of their communities. We are committed to promoting independence, dignity, inclusion, and person-centered support.
Position Summary
The Program Lead is a hands-on leader who supports participants, coaches staff, monitors program quality, and helps ensure compliance with agency and regulatory requirements. This position works closely with the Program Manager to provide effective community integration and vocational services.
The ideal candidate is organized, dependable, a strong communicator, and passionate about supporting people with disabilities.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Staff Support
- Lead by example and uphold Ability Road's mission and values.
- Provide guidance, coaching, and support to Skills Instructors.
- Assist with staff training and professional development.
- Monitor staff schedules, documentation, and program procedures.
- Report concerns, training needs, and operational issues to the Program Manager.
- Promote teamwork, accountability, and participant-centered services.
Participant Support
- Support participants in community, employment, and skill-building activities.
- Help individuals work toward their personal goals.
- Teach and encourage self-advocacy, social, employment, and independent living skills.
- Assess participant strengths, interests, needs, and support requirements.
- Collaborate with families, caregivers, service coordinators, and other support team members.
Documentation & Compliance
- Help ensure required participant documentation is completed accurately and on time, including:
- Assessments
- Goals and objectives
- Progress notes
- Quarterly reports
- Semi-annual and annual reviews
- Exit reports
- Person-centered planning documents
- Maintain confidential records and protect participant privacy.
- Assist with audits and quality assurance reviews.
- Follow HIPAA, California privacy laws, and agency policies.
Program Coordination
- Plan and coordinate meaningful community and skill-building activities.
- Help develop programs that support participant growth and engagement.
- Ensure materials, schedules, and resources are prepared and available.
- Work with other program leaders to meet participant needs.
- Support transitions between services as participant goals change.
Employment & Vocational Support
- Help participants build job readiness skills, including:
- Resume writing
- Interview preparation
- Workplace communication
- Professional behavior
- Career exploration
- Assist with Paid Internship Program (PIP) opportunities and employment goals.
Administrative Duties
- Maintain communication with staff, participants, families, and other stakeholders.
- Track attendance, participation, and program data.
- Complete required reports and electronic documentation.
- Attend meetings, trainings, and professional development activities.
- Participate in on-call responsibilities as assigned.
Other Duties
- Perform other tasks and special projects as assigned.
Qualifications
Required
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- At least 2 years of experience supporting individuals with developmental disabilities, behavioral health needs, vocational services, community integration programs, or related human services.
- Leadership, mentoring, or supervisory experience.
- Strong communication and organizational skills.
- Computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office and email.
- Valid California driver's license.
- Minimum 3 years of driving experience.
- Reliable transportation and current auto insurance.
- Ability to obtain CPR and First Aid certification.
- Ability to pass required background and pre-employment screenings.
Preferred
- Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Human Services, Social Work, Psychology, Rehabilitation, Special Education, or a related field.
- Experience working with Regional Centers.
- Experience with person-centered planning and service documentation.
- Experience coaching staff or leading programs.
Required Clearances
Employment is contingent upon successful completion of:
- Criminal background check
- DMV record review