Foster Care Program Manager

Foster Care Program Manager

The Program Manager provides leadership, direction and oversight to programs, assuring solid financial management, program growth and quality services. He / She has the responsibility for the operation of multiple sites or programs including provision services, hiring and supervision of staff, budget and contract administration, management of the facility or property, and promotion of the programs to constituents. The Program Manager provides training and team building to make certain that the programs operate to meet the needs of the consumers. Essential Responsibilities :

Assure the program provides quality services by a trained and supported team of professionals;

Assure the program uses treatment modalities / evidenced based practices that reflect the most current information and proven effectiveness;

Assure that program models are strength based and demonstrate the utmost respect for human dignity and empowerment;

Assure that staff treatment of clients, staff and families is consistently respectful and supportive of program and individual goals;

Assure effective and objective documentation is maintained according to licensing, funding source and accreditation guidelines;

Work with collaterals and funding sources to develop and maintain a positive program reputation;

Oversee the development of a marketing and communication strategy and assure implementation to recruit qualified foster parents;

Assure foster parents receive adequate training and support to meet the needs of the children placed in their homes;

Assure that program marketing and recruitment events produce adequate number of new foster families

Assure all agency policies including confidentiality and client rights and responsibilities are followed;

Responsible for following all agency policies for interviewing and hiring new staff

Responsible for addressing staff disciplinary issues and following agency policies for corrective action

Assure the program meets licensing, contract, accreditation and regulatory standards

Assure facilities are maintained and repaired promptly;

Assure that programs have adequate staffing within their program budgets

Develop realistic program budgets and monitor to assure performance to budget;

Assure all reports and documentation are submitted in a timely and professional manner;

Represent the agency and programs at provider and community meetings

Maintain cooperative relationships with central office staff and affiliates, providing needed documentation and communication in a timely manner as scheduled and / or requested;

Effectively manage resources and maximize program performance and effectiveness

Provide rotating 24 / 7 on call support

Qualifications :

Master's Degree in Human / Social Services or related field required;

Two years of clinical experience working with children and families required;

Two years of supervisory or management experience required;

Demonstrated ability to be a leader and supervise others;

Knowledge of the relevant funding sources and systems of care (including child welfare and / or undocumented youth and unaccompanied minors)

Knowledge of contracts, funding sources and regulatory requirements;

Ability to work within the mission : "We are called to strengthen communities by empowering people to respond to life's challenges."

Understanding of and ability to set professional boundaries;

Ability to promote a positive work environment;

Ability to work independently;

Ability to utilize independent sound clinical judgement and decision making with regards to best interest of children and families

Able to use good judgement when interviewing and hiring new staff;

Ability to address disciplinary issues and follow agency policies for corrective action;

Ability to work flexible hours and be available to meet emergency situation and provide on call support;

Ability to effectively manage client behavior, foster independence and maintain perspective;

Ability to handle crisis situations in a calm and effective manner;

Ability to use independent clinical judgement and discretion; investigate, analyze and draw professional conclusions;

Ability to set priorities and to be clear and directive when needed;

Ability to provide documentation including valid driver's license, evidence of automobile insurance, clear criminal record check and credentials;

Ability to work cooperatively in a team environment and to problem solve unexpected / unpredictable circumstances calmly;

Excellent interpersonal and written communication skills;

Computer skills including word, excel and email competency;

Ability to travel throughout assigned region;

Trainings Required :

Knowledge of and adherence to ORR / DCF / DCYF and EEC requirements, and best practices.

Complete ongoing post hire service training as required by state

Foster Parent Pre-Service Training as needed

Electronic data systems

Maintain mandatory training certifications and e-Learning certificates as needed.

Physical / Mental Demands :

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand; walk; sit and talk or hear. The employee must occasionally lift and / or move up to 40 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus. The employee is frequently required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel and reach with hands and arms.

Required to sit for long periods of time.

Infrequent light physical effort required

Requires driving own vehicle to various sites.

Qualifications :

Master's degree in Human services related field

5 years management / supervisory experience

Licensure recognized by ASWB {LICSW, LCSW, LSW, or LSWA] is preferred.

Knowledge of the DCF / DEEC systems

Excellent leadership skills including a commitment to building positive community support and ability to exercise considerable diplomacy in managing various systems

Ability to be certified in First Aid and CPR

Flexibility in thinking and scheduling including working nights and weekends

Positive and energetic presentation and customer service, human centered attitude

Possession of a valid driver's license, ability to use own vehicle to get to locations through New England as needed and a good driving record.

Company Benefits : Medical

Dental

Vision

FSA and dependent care account

3 Weeks PTO and 9 Holidays!

Tuition Assistance

And many more!

Ascentria Care Alliance celebrates diversity and is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with federal and state employment opportunity laws, qualified applicants are considered for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, pregnancy, status as a veteran, sexual orientation, gender expression or identity, or any other legally-protected category. Candidates who identify as BIPOC, multilingual or have lived experience with immigration or human services are encouraged to apply.