Title: Program Coordinator

Reports to: Directors of Program Services
Effective date: 2025
FLSA status: Non-Exempt – Full-Time Hourly

General summary:

The Program Coordinator II performs a wide variety of duties to coordinate the programs and services of Easter Seals Goodwill ND, Inc. (ESGWND) as directed by the Director of Program Services. Program Coordinators will oversee all aspects of the program and billing process.

Key responsibilities:

Caseload Management

Program Coordinators will be a part of an interdisciplinary team that will assist individuals and their families to utilize services in North Dakota. Program Coordinators may work directly with the people supported when the needs arise.

• Prepare and participate in the planning process and the Overall Service Plans by providing information to the team—either through completing assessment and/or participating in meetings—about what you know to be the dreams and goals, strengths and needs of the people ESGWND supports.
• Assure that the strategies set forth by family and the team to help people achieve their goals and realize their personal outcomes, in both formal and informal settings are carried out; and, to assure that staff (DSPs and ESPs) document the results so they can be used to determine progress towards goals.
• Assure that people can manage their finances, seek out financial assistance, maintain and protect their personal possessions, arrange for transportation and be active in their community and use its resources.
• Some Program Coordinators may be appointed as a signer on Representative Payee accounts at ESGWND.
• Program Coordinators will assist people supported in ESGWND services with state/federal paperwork as well as housing documents as needed.
• Assure that people can maintain their homes and that all living arrangements comply with health, safety and ESGWND standards.
• Assure that people live their best lives by providing needed assistance to complete grooming, hygiene and personal care tasks as well as ensuring that all medical needs are met for the person supported.
• Provide both formal and informal direction and support to Staff so they can support people to achieve their optimum health. Assure that staff are monitoring and documenting health information so complete and accurate information is available for the medical professionals.
• Assure that staff are trained to assist people in administering their medications, and assure that people supported can schedule, attend, participate and follow recommendations received at appointments.
• Assure that people meet their nutritional needs by encouraging them to eat well-balanced healthy meals and snacks and to follow diets orders established by their doctor and/or family; and to direct staff to prepare meals accordingly.
• Conduct quarterly visits and monthly contact with the people supported in services. Document meetings, conversations and important information.

Follow Guidelines and Policies

Program coordinators will be required to learn and uphold internal policies as well as the state regulations for service delivery.

• Program Coordinators will uphold HIPPA rules and regulations as well as ensure that all staff maintain confidentiality and professionalism.
• Participate in and use knowledge gained through The Council on Quality and Leadership in Supports for Persons with Disabilities and protocols established by ESGWND and the State of North Dakota Department of Human Services.
• Every Program Coordinator should have a general understanding of all the services that ESGWND is licensed to provide, even if that service is not provided outside of your regional office.
• Work with statewide agencies and departments to ensure payment for services provided as well as continuity in care.
• Actively promote and uphold the Mission, Vision, and Values of ESGWND—advancing Equality, Dignity, and Independence for individuals with disabilities or special needs.
• Have a strong knowledge of ESGWND’s policies and procedures.

Manage Staff

Program coordinators are involved in every step of employment for direct care staff (DSP and ESP) positions.

• Recruit, interview, and hire DSPs/ESPs. This will be completed as a team and follow direction laid out by Human Recourses (HR) and Directors.
• Conduct reference checks on all potential hires and maintain records.
• Train, Schedule and supervise DSPs/ESPs. This will look different based on what program the staff is providing support in. Staff will be trained directly by the Program Coordinator on all paperwork necessary as well as the standard operating procedures.
• Coordinate to maintain an effective department through proper training of all staff.
• Maintain good Team Member relations.
• Document training and conversations with team members and follow HR guidelines on recordkeeping.
• Motivate Team Members and effectively work with staff with any performance issues.
• Complete payroll and ensure that staff are paid accurately.

Job criteria:

Education & experience

• Bachelor’s Degree in the human service field or related. Preference will be given to those with a psychology, social work, education or gerontology degree.
• One year of experience in working directly with people with developmental disabilities.
• Become a certified QDDP (Qualified Developmental Disability Professional) by following certification from MSU Developmental Disabilities according to a prescribed schedule for completion of modules.
• Become certified in CPR and First Aid or Therapeutic Responses through Positive Behavior Support.

Knowledge, skills, & abilities

• Ability to conceptualize, develop and implement creative plans (think “outside the box”).
• Ability to solve problems independently while working in a fast-paced team environment.
• Excellent written, oral and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to drive ESGW vehicles.
• Exercise discretion, judgment and confidentiality.
• Maintain confidentiality and security of department information and files.
• Ensure compliance with EWGSND’s policies and procedures and safety standards throughout regional work areas.

Working conditions While performing the duties of this job, employees are regularly required to sit for extended periods of time, walk and stand; talk both in person and by telephone; use hands and fingers to handle, feel or operate standard office equipment; reach with hands and arms; and lift up to 50 pounds. Vision abilities include close and distant focus. The noise level in the work environment is usually quiet to moderate. May on occasion be exposed to loud sounds and distracting noise levels. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable people with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job. Minimal travel required.

Disclaimer:

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by Team Members assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and/or skills required of all Team Members so classified. Other job duties may arise and be assigned by the program director at any time.