Program Administrator (Case Manager)

The Program Administrator (Case Manager) at The Arc Western Montana plays a crucial role in managing staff and supporting various aspects of program activities. Key responsibilities include supervising House Managers and Direct Support Professionals, ensuring effective communication with guardians and case managers, attending and leading strategy meetings, managing schedules and performance evaluations, and even providing direct care as needed. This leadership role embodies a commitment to high-quality care for individuals with developmental disabilities.

To become a Program Administrator (Case Manager) at The Arc Western Montana, candidates must possess a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university, or equivalent experience. Additionally, at least one year of experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities is preferred. Effective communication skills, both written and verbal, alongside a reliable and compassionate demeanor are critical to excel in this role.

As a Program Administrator (Case Manager) with The Arc Western Montana, you can expect a comprehensive benefits package that includes a competitive salary of $60,000 annually, a $6,000 sign-on bonus, up to three weeks of paid time off, and various health insurance options starting at just $95/month. Moreover, you’ll benefit from retirement plans with company matching, loan forgiveness opportunities under the PSLF program, and additional training for professional development.

The typical work schedule for the Program Administrator (Case Manager) at The Arc Western Montana is Monday to Friday, with a rotating on-call schedule every four to five weeks. This structure allows for a balanced work-life environment while ensuring that the needs of the individuals in our care are met around the clock.

Training for the Program Administrator (Case Manager) position at The Arc Western Montana is designed to be comprehensive and supportive. New hires undergo paid training that encompasses essential topics such as First Aid, CPR, Mandt Certification, and Medication Certification. This thorough onboarding process aims to equip you with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively lead your team and deliver high-quality care.

Prioritizing responsibilities as a Program Administrator involves understanding the immediate needs of the individuals in our care while ensuring that tasks like staff scheduling, performance evaluations, and compliance with regulations are managed efficiently. A clear communication strategy and regular check-ins with team members can also help balance priorities effectively.

In discussing your experience with developmental disabilities, emphasize specific roles where you provided support, developed care plans, or worked collaboratively with families or other professionals. Highlight any training you've completed that aligns with your understanding of developmental disabilities and how it informs your approach to care.

Managing a team effectively requires clear communication, setting achievable goals, and providing regular feedback. It’s also important to recognize and celebrate team achievements, encourage professional development, and foster an inclusive environment where team members feel valued and heard.

When handling conflicts within a team, I focus on maintaining open communication. It's important to listen to each party’s perspective, address the issue directly and facilitate a solution that is fair and aligns with our values. Encouraging a team culture where concerns can be raised constructively is key.

My approach to person-centered planning involves genuinely engaging with each individual’s preferences, needs, and goals. This means facilitating meetings with key stakeholders, actively involving individuals in decision-making, and continuously assessing and modifying plans to ensure they remain relevant and effective.

When discussing a difficult decision, frame it in terms of identifying the challenge, the steps you took to assess the situation, and the outcome. Emphasize your critical thinking skills and your commitment to ensuring the best interests of the individuals you serve were upheld.

Ensuring compliance with regulatory standards involves staying updated on changes in legislation and guidelines while implementing regular training sessions for staff. Conducting audits and creating a system for feedback and reporting can also help maintain compliance and improve overall quality of care.

My method for verifying timecards includes reviewing hours against scheduled shifts, conducting audits for accuracy, and communicating with staff about any discrepancies. It’s crucial to address these issues promptly to ensure that payroll runs smoothly and staff are paid on time.

Dealing with stress as a leader involves having effective stress-management techniques in place, such as prioritizing self-care, seeking support from peers, and practicing mindfulness. I'm proactive about addressing potential stressors and fostering an open environment where the team can also share their challenges.

Expressing your desire to work at The Arc Western Montana should include your passion for supporting individuals with developmental disabilities and your appreciation for the organization’s values. Touch upon how you see yourself contributing to the mission and making a meaningful impact in the community.