Director of Programs

Merakey
$72,000-$84,000/Annually based upon experience Benefits Merakey offers generous benefits that promote well-being, financial security, and work-life balance, including: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, plus access to healthcare advoca
tuition reimbursement, retirement plan, mileage reimbursement
United States, Pennsylvania, West Chester
1380 Wilmington Pike (Show on map)
Jul 02, 2026
Lead Change. Build Strong Teams. Make Every Day Count. At Merakey, we put heart and soul into our work, creating opportunities for individuals and communities to thrive. As the Director of Programs, you will have the opportunity to lead a dedicated team, oversee high-quality services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and make a lasting impact in the communities we serve. This leadership role combines program oversight, staff development, and strategic operations to ensure exceptional care and meaningful outcomes. If you are a passionate, mission-driven leader looking to advance your career while empowering others to thrive, we invite you to join our team in West Chester, PA. The Director of Programs' responsibilities include: Program Leadership & Operations: Oversee daily program operations, implement strategic initiatives and organizational policies, ensure quality service delivery, manage admissions and transitions, coordinate emergency procedures, and monitor program performance and outcomes. Staff Supervision & Development: Recruit, hire, train, supervise, and mentor staff; conduct performance evaluations and regular 1:1 meetings; manage attendance, scheduling, disciplinary actions, and staff development plans; ensure completion of required training. Financial & Administrative Management: Manage program budgets and financial performance, participate in annual budget planning, oversee staffing schedules to align with budget targets, review reports and program data, and maintain accurate administrative records. Quality Assurance & Compliance: Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, accreditation standards, evidence-based practices, and organizational policies; review audits, reports, goal plans, and service documentation; implement corrective actions and continuous quality improvement initiatives. Individual & Residential Services Oversight: Coordinate admissions and residential transitions, monitor individualized service plans and behavioral support plans, review service delivery and outcomes, support community inclusion efforts, and oversee the safety, maintenance, and compliance of assigned residences. Community Relations & Stakeholder Engagement: Develop community partnerships, support marketing and outreach efforts, collaborate with interdisciplinary teams and external stakeholders, promote program awareness, and serve as a resource for staff, families, and community partners. Additional Duties: Perform special projects, support organizational initiatives, and complete other responsibilities as assigned. *Earn $72,000-$84,000/Annually based upon experience* Benefits Merakey offers generous benefits that promote well-being, financial security, and work-life balance, including: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, plus access to healthcare advocacy support. Retirement plan -- both pre-tax and Roth (after-tax) options available for employee contributions. DailyPay -- access your pay when you need it! On the Goga well-being platform, featuring self-care tools and resources. Access Care.com for backup childcare, elder care, and household services. Confidential counseling, legal, and financial services through our Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Tuition reimbursement and educational partnerships. Employee discounts and savings programs on entertainment, travel, and lifestyle. Access to Pryor Online Learning for free online personal development classes. Learn more about our full benefits package - https://www.merakey.org/careers/benefits About Merakey Merakey is a non-profit provider of developmental, behavioral health, and education services. More than 8,000 employees provide support to nearly 40,000 individuals and families throughout 12 states across the country each year. Click here to watch a video about Merakey. Merakey strictly follows a zero-tolerance policy for abuse. Merakey is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer! We deeply value diversity and do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, ethnic background, sex, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, genetic information, or disability status. Moreover, we are committed to creating teams that reflect the diversity of the communities we serve and encourage applicants from underrepresented backgrounds to apply. Merakey welcomes all Veterans to apply! The ideal candidate will possess the following qualifications: Bachelor's Degree or the equivalency for credited coursework and experience or 5 years of equivalent experience. 1-3 years of supervisory experience as an IDD program leader Valid Driver's License and a vehicle to travel to program sites-mileage reimbursement available!