Program Lead

Job Description

Job Description

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.

We are looking for a motivated and organized Program Lead to help oversee daily program operations, support staff, and ensure high-quality services for participants.

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
• Drug screening (if required)
• TB clearance/testing
• Employment eligibility verification

Knowledge & Skills

Successful candidates should have:

• Knowledge of person-centered practices.
• Understanding of community integration and employment support services.
• Strong organization and time-management skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Good problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professional boundaries.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Commitment to inclusion, dignity, and respect.

Physical Requirements

• Regular driving in the community.
• Frequent walking, standing, sitting, bending, and stair climbing.
• Ability to assist participants with mobility as needed.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 25 pounds occasionally.
• Ability to work indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Ability to use computers, tablets, and standard office equipment.

Reasonable accommodations will be provided in accordance with state and federal law.

Compensation & Benefits

Starting Pay: $20.00-$22.00 per hour, depending on qualifications and experience.

Benefits may include:

• CalSavers Retirement Program
• Paid Sick Leave
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Training and Professional Development
• Mileage Reimbursement (when applicable)
• Employee Assistance Program (when available)

Equal Opportunity Employer

Ability Road is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to maintaining an inclusive workplace. Employment decisions are made without regard to any protected characteristic under federal, state, or local law.