The Program Manager oversees day-to-day program operations, ensuring a safe, clean, trauma-informed environment and consistent implementation of schedules and treatment supports. They lead staff through supervision, coaching, competency assessment, and accountability; ensure timely, thorough documentation and regulatory compliance; and collaborate with clinical, nursing, education, and leadership partners to support youth outcomes. The Program Manager also manages requisitions and program/individual funds, supports the Program Director with hiring activities, and provides on-site supervisor coverage as assigned.
Position Status: Exempt
TECHNOLOGIES: Microsoft Office Suite, Scheduling Platform (ADP WFM), Online Trainings Platform (ADP WFN), Electronic Health System (Carelogic by Qualifacts), Security System (iVMS)
Accountable and responsible for the following results:
Oversees the day-to-day programmatic operations of the assigned program, ensuring consistent implementation of the model, schedules, and therapeutic routines.
Creates and sustains a trauma-informed, developmentally appropriate treatment environment for the age groups served.
Maintains working knowledge of youth treatment plans and individual needs and educates/coaches staff to implement supports consistently.
Develops and maintains a structured program schedule that provides predictability, engagement, and fun.
Secures supplies and equipment necessary to implement planned activities and therapeutic programming.
Builds a positive program community by creating opportunities for youth voice, ideas, and age-appropriate responsibilities.
Develops and maintains therapeutic relationships with guardians to support engagement, communication, and youth progress.
Supports the Program Director with hiring by assisting with recruitment, screening, interviewing, and selection; coordinates onboarding steps and communicates staffing needs and recommendations.
Orients, trains, and supervises staff to ensure safe, consistent, and effective practice.
Assesses employee competencies and individualizes supervision and coaching to build skills, address gaps, and support success.
Escalates employee performance concerns to program senior leadership promptly, with clear documentation and recommended next steps.
Educates staff on the treatment needs of the youth served and reinforces trauma-informed interventions and expectations.
Facilitates staff meetings to communicate priorities, strengthen teamwork, and drive follow-through.
Monitors and supports staff morale by recognizing strengths, addressing concerns early, and promoting a positive team culture.
Ensures all required documentation for self and staff is completed on time and meets quality standards for being thorough and descriptive (e.g., incident reports, Emergency Physical Restraint documentation, attendance, allowance, group notes, and related records).
Provides Human Resources with required staff documentation (e.g., orientation records and checklists, competency assessments, performance evaluations, and assigned training documentation) accurately and on time.
Ensures a safe, clean, and well-maintained environment for youth and staff.
Safeguards and cares for agency property and ensures appropriate use of program materials and spaces.
Educates and holds staff accountable for their responsibilities in maintaining safety and cleanliness.
Manages requisitions and program/individual funds for food, activities, and other needs; ensures accurate accounting and timely submission of receipts and documentation to the Finance Department.
Provides recurring on-site supervisor coverage as assigned, assuming full on-shift accountability for safety, staffing ratios, program operations, incident response, and required documentation.
Maintains strict confidentiality of all client information and records, ensuring adherence to agency policies and procedures.
Actively participates in staff and departmental meetings, in-service trainings, workshops, and conferences, and effectively utilizes supervision to support professional growth and enhance service quality.
Maintains an up-to-date file of Agency policies and procedures, ensuring full compliance with all administrative directives.
Maintains CCG certification and serves as a trainer; coaches supervisors and staff and ensures physical restraint techniques are applied safely and only when required to protect clients and staff.
Maintains appropriate personal boundaries with young people and families served at The Children’s Center of Hamden, in accordance with the agency’s Boundary Code of Ethics.
Maintains awareness of The Children’s Center of Hamden’s Policy and Procedure Manuals and accesses relevant information as needed to guide decision-making and ensure compliance.
Contributes to a safe, welcoming, and equitable environment that reflects the agency’s commitment to diversity and inclusion.
Perform other related duties as assigned.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Bachelor’s Degree, preferred: Human Services, Social Work, or related field.
LICENSURE /
CERTIFICATIONS
Required to become Medication Administration Certified.
Valid Driver’s License with a safe driving record is required.
Required to become a certified trainer/instructor in the Agency’s Crisis Intervention Model.
Ability to obtain and maintain current CPR and First Aid certification.
Ability to obtain and maintain current Crisis Prevention and Intervention certification.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS /
WORK ENVIRONMENT
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to perform the following essential job functions:
The work environment is primarily representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of the job.
Potential exposure to waste and bodily fluids
Potential allergenic and/or irritant conditions
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Social ServicesManagement & LeadershipHealthcareHuman ResourcesSecurity & Safety
Job Information
📋Core Responsibilities
The Program Manager oversees daily operations, ensuring a safe and trauma-informed environment while supervising and coaching staff. They are responsible for regulatory compliance, managing program funds, and collaborating with clinical and leadership teams to support youth outcomes.