Day Program Behavior Specialist

Position: Behavior Day Program - Operations Manager

Compensation: $62,000 to $67,000/annually

Status: Full-Time

Category: Exempt

Shift: Monday - Friday, 8:00am - 4:00pm

Reports to: Director of Day Program Services

Location: Ewing Township, NJ

What We Offer:

• Top 401k plans in the industry. Employer contribution of 5% and 6% match, for a total of 11%

• Comprehensive Medical and Dental Benefits

• Extended Dental Reimbursement up to $500
• Vision Reimbursement up to $300

Who We Are

The Arc Mercer is a trusted leader in providing comprehensive support and services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) across Mercer County. For over 70 years, we have been dedicated to creating a more inclusive community by empowering individuals to live fulfilling and independent lives.

Job Summary:

We are seeking an experienced Behavioral Day Program - Operations Manager to oversee the daily operations of our program serving individuals with high behavioral acuities. This role is responsible for ensuring compliance with all regulatory standards, optimizing program efficiency, and leading a team of direct care staff to deliver high-quality support services. The ideal candidate will have strong leadership skills, operational expertise, and the ability to implement structured processes that enhance service delivery while maintaining a safe and supportive environment.

Key Responsibilities:
Operational Management & Compliance:

• Supervise and coordinate daily operations, ensuring direct care staff effectively support individuals with high behavioral needs.
• Develop and maintain professional communication with staff, families, and guardians to ensure seamless coordination of care.
• Train and onboard direct care staff in operational procedures, compliance protocols, and best practices for behavioral support.
• Monitor and oversee daily assignments, ensuring all tasks are completed to program standards.
• Ensure community-based activities align with Fee-for-Service (FFS) requirements and participant needs.
• Lead preparation and participation in Individualized Service Plan (ISP) meetings, ensuring goal development and proper implementation.
• Track and document ISP strategies, ensuring compliance and accurate reporting.
• Maintain all certification and regulatory standards set by DDD and DHS for Behavioral Day Programs.
• Manage medication administration, documentation, and organization as required.
• Cooperate fully with inspections, audits, or investigations from oversight agencies (DDD, DHS, QA).
• Oversee transportation logistics, ensuring operational efficiency for multi-passenger vehicles when needed.

Behavioral Program Oversight & Staff Supervision:

• Supervise the implementation of Behavior Support Plans (BSPs) and behavioral interventions, ensuring staff adherence to protocols.
• Provide direct supervision and guidance on behavior management techniques, including de-escalation strategies.
• Monitor reinforcement systems, ensuring adequate resources for token economies, contracts, and BSP goals.
• Conduct ongoing behavioral training for staff in collaboration with clinical specialists.
• Oversee behavioral data tracking, ensuring accurate documentation and timely reporting for psychiatry appointments, IDTs, and progress assessments.
• Ensure all required authorizations for Physical Restraint Techniques (PRT) are obtained, documented, and properly implemented in crisis situations.
• Assist in conducting Functional Assessments (FA), Functional Behavioral Assessments (FBA), and preference assessments as needed.
• Perform integrity checks and audits to ensure compliance with behavioral intervention standards.

Continuous Improvement & Efficiency Optimization:

• Identify and implement process improvements that enhance operational efficiency and service delivery.
• Leverage technology and automation to streamline documentation, reporting, and communication.
• Develop key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure program effectiveness and staff productivity.
• Collaborate with clinical teams and leadership to refine service models and improve outcomes for program participants.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree or higher in a relevant field preferred.
• RBT certification or ability to obtain within 6 months of hire.
• Minimum of 2 years of supervisory experience in a Day Program or Special Needs Services
• Minimum of 2 years of experience working with individuals with developmental or intellectual disabilities and mental health/behavioral challenges.
• Strong understanding of behavioral intervention strategies, crisis management, and de-escalation techniques.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for interactions with all levels of staff, families, guardians, consumer participants, and external agencies.
• Experience in behavioral health programs or ABA therapy.
• Strong knowledge of DDD/DHS compliance standards.
• Advanced experience in behavioral data tracking and analysis.
• Exceptional time management and team development skills.
• Valid driver's license with a clean driving record (no more than three suspensions or points in the past three years).
• Physical ability to perform job tasks, including lifting up to 25 pounds, bending, stooping, pushing, pulling, and extended periods of walking.

Why Join Us? At The Arc Mercer, you'll be part of a mission-driven organization where your work truly makes a difference. Join a supportive, professional environment that values growth, collaboration, and the power of inclusion. Here, you'll have the opportunity to empower individuals to achieve their fullest potential, while building your own skills and career through ongoing training and development.

If you're passionate about helping others thrive in the workplace and the community, we invite you to bring your talents to our team. Together, we'll create meaningful opportunities and make a lasting impact. Join us at The Arc Mercer-where every day is an opportunity to change lives.

Have Questions? Email us at or call for more information.

We are committed to providing an inclusive and accessible hiring process. If you require a reasonable accommodation or assistance with your application, please contact us at

Pre-Employment Requirements: All offers of employment are contingent upon the successful completion of a background check, drug screening, physical exam, PPD test, and verification of an acceptable driving record.

Equal Opportunity Employer The Arc Mercer is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, or disability status.

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