C.I.L.A Director

About Clare Woods, Inc. and the Opportunity

At Clare Woods, Inc., we are dedicated to empowering individuals with developmental disabilities and special needs through tailored educational, vocational, and residential services.

We are seeking a compassionate, organized, and experienced CILA Director to oversee our CILA (Community-Integrated Living Arrangement) program, leading clinical compliance, culture, and community engagement.

Job Overview

The CILA Director provides direct, hands-on leadership to ensure the highest quality of care and support for individuals residing in our CILA homes. Because this role requires active daily operational support, direct interaction with residents, and real-time oversight of home functions, this position is 100% in-person with no option for remote work.

Acting as the primary Qualified Intellectual Disabilities Professional (QIDP), you will manage all regulatory documentation, drive person-centered programming, shape positive residential culture, and spearhead programmatic initiatives (including Therap/electronic record updates).

You will work closely on-site with our House Manager, who manages day-to-day home operations and direct support staff, allowing you to collaborate directly on clinical oversight, compliance, individual enrichment, and strategic leadership.

Daily Operational Support & On-Site Presence

• Provide daily, on-site operational support across residential homes to ensure smooth operations, staff engagement, and high standards of resident care.
• Respond promptly to on-site needs, incidents, and operational challenges as they arise in real time.

QIDP & Regulatory Compliance

• Oversee and manage all QIDP documentation, including Individual Service Plans (ISPs), assessments, monthly reviews, and state compliance reports in accordance with DHS guidelines.
• Ensure all CILA operations align with Illinois Department of Human Services (DHS) regulations and agency policies.
• Facilitate interdisciplinary team meetings and coordinate care with families, guardians, medical providers, and state agencies.

Culture & Policy Development

• Help establish, foster, and maintain a positive, supportive, and inclusive culture within the residential homes for both residents and staff.
• Contribute to the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of residential policies and standard operating procedures.
• Promote person-centered principles and advocate for residents' rights, autonomy, and personal growth.

Programmatic Initiatives & Systems Improvement

• Assist with the rollout and optimization of internal electronic management platforms (such as Therap) for efficient documentation, incident reporting, and data tracking.
• Identify areas for operational improvement and implement quality improvement initiatives across CILA homes.

Enrichment & House Operations Collaboration

• Partner closely on-site with the House Manager to ensure seamless operational workflow and consistent care standards across all shifts.
• Design, implement, and support creative, engaging community activities, life-skills training, and enrichment opportunities tailored to residents' interests and goals.
• Promote community integration and meaningful social participation for residents.

Qualifications

• Must be certified as a Qualified Intellectual Disabilities Professional (QIDP) in the State of Illinois (Required).
• Ability to work 100% in-person daily to provide active operational support (Required).
• Bachelor’s degree in Human Services, Special Education, Social Work, Psychology, or a related field (Required).
• Minimum of 2–3 years of experience working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in a residential or CILA setting.
• Experience with electronic documentation systems (e.g., Therap) preferred.
• Strong interpersonal, organization, and collaborative leadership skills; ability to work effectively with staff, residents, and family members.
• Valid Driver's License with a clean driving record.

Benefits & Perks

• Competitive compensation
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off (PTO) and paid holidays
• Retirement savings plan
• Supportive team environment and opportunities for professional growth

Benefits:

• 403(b)
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Application Question(s):

• What are your desired annual compensation/salary expectations for this role?

Experience:

• QIDP or DSP: 3 years (Required)

License/Certification:

• QIDP Certification (Required)

Work Location: In person