Program Support Specialist (Day)

Program Support Specialist

The Program Support Specialist is a highly versatile and essential role within MICC, providing flexible, skilled coverage across all program areas to ensure seamless, high-quality participant support at all times. This position steps into instructional settings, small group and 1:1 sessions, medication monitoring, behavior support, shuttle transportation, and participant rounds as a support resource reinforcing the work of the full-time program team rather than replacing it. The Program Support Specialist maintains the same standard of person-centered care as the broader team and serves as a critical resource for continuity across programming.

Monday - Friday 7:45 AM - 4:15 PM

Essential Functions

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Program Coverage and Instructional Support

• Provide flexible, skilled coverage across all MICC program areas as staffing needs arise
• Serve as in-class support alongside Program Instructors, reinforcing instruction, assisting with accommodations, and helping maintain an inclusive environment the primary instructional lead remains the assigned Program Instructor
• Follow existing lesson plans, participant support plans, accommodation strategies when filling in across teams
• Support shuttle and transportation needs, accompanying participants during community-based activities as assigned
• Maintain familiarity with all program areas, participant needs, and team expectations to ensure seamless transitions when providing coverage

Medication Monitoring

• Supervise and accurately document the medication monitoring window each shift as acting Medication Coordinator
• Support participants with medication organization, pill box refilling, and prescription refill requests
• Complete required training to prevent medication errors and respond effectively when errors occur
• Partner with Advisors and families to address barriers to medication independence

Participant Rounds and Wellbeing Support

• Conduct scheduled participant rounds to check on participant wellbeing, safety, and needs across residential and program spaces
• Provide responsive support during assigned shifts, addressing participant needs and communicating any concerns to the appropriate staff or Advisor
• Maintain a calm, supportive presence during programming and transition times

Behavior Support and Participant Engagement

• Use a person-centered, strengths-based approach when supporting participants across all settings
• Implement positive behavior supports and de-escalation strategies as needed
• Build rapport quickly with participants and integrate effectively into varying team environments
• Communicate observations and participant needs to the appropriate Advisor or team lead promptly

Documentation and Communication

• Accurately document medication monitoring, attendance, behavior incidents, participant rounds, and all support provided in MICC's data systems
• Maintain open communication with all teams regarding coverage needs, participant updates, and shift transitions
• Participate in team meetings, Family Weekends, graduations, and program events as needed
• Maintain records in compliance with applicable laws and MICC policies
• Other duties as assigned

Requirements

Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Education, Special Education, Social Work, Psychology, Occupational Therapy, Therapeutic Recreation, or a related field preferred
• 2+ years of experience supporting individuals with ASD and/or learning differences preferred
• Experience in medication monitoring, positive behavior supports, or direct care highly desirable

Skills and Abilities

• Highly adaptable with the ability to shift effectively across multiple program areas, roles, and settings within a single day
• Strong instructional and facilitation skills with the ability to step into a classroom or small group session with confidence
• Effective de-escalation, positive behavior support, and interpersonal skills
• Excellent organizational and communication skills, both written and verbal
• Ability to quickly build rapport with participants and integrate into varying team environments
• Commitment to confidentiality and professional ethics
• Valid driver's license with a clean driving record as determined by MICC's insurance company, or ability to obtain a Minnesota license within 60 days of hire
• Must reside in Minnesota

Minnesota Independence College and Community