What are the responsibilities and job description for the Program Manager – TRAILS (Adults with Developmental Disabilities) position at Tierra Learning Center?
About The TRAILS Day Program & Tierra Learning Center
TRAILS — Tierra's Recreation Arts Independent Life Skills — is a community-based continuing education day program for adults with developmental disabilities. Rooted in the belief that every person deserves a meaningful, active life, TRAILS helps participants build independence through outdoor adventures, creative arts, and community engagement. The program runs Monday through Thursday, 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., with small group activities on Fridays, and serves adults 18 and older at Tierra Learning Center's beautiful North Central Washington campus.
We are seeking a dedicated, experienced Program Manager to lead TRAILS — someone who shares our commitment to dignity, inclusion, and the boundless potential of the people we serve.
Position Summary
The Program Manager provides day-to-day oversight of the TRAILS program, ensuring high-quality, person-centered services that reflect best practices in developmental disability support. This role blends direct program leadership with staff supervision, regulatory compliance, family and community collaboration, and a genuine passion for enriching the lives of adults with developmental disabilities.
Key Responsibilities
The Program Manager will design, implement, and continuously improve meaningful day activities aligned with each participant's individual goals and person-centered plans. This includes overseeing behavior support strategies, coordinating with therapists and healthcare providers, and ensuring that individuals with complex medical, behavioral, or mental health needs receive consistent, thoughtful care.
The Manager will supervise, coach, and develop TRAILS staff — handling hiring, onboarding, training, and performance management — and will cultivate a team culture grounded in empathy, professionalism, and mutual respect. Strong conflict resolution and team-building skills are essential in this collaborative, fast-paced environment.
Regulatory compliance is a core part of this role. The Program Manager will ensure the program meets all applicable state and federal requirements for developmental disability day services, maintains audit-ready documentation, and upholds licensing and accreditation standards. Budget management, resource allocation, and quality improvement tracking are also key responsibilities.
The Manager serves as a primary point of contact for participants' families and guardians, case managers, and community partners — building relationships that support each individual's goals and well-being both inside and outside the program.
Qualifications
We are looking for a candidate who brings both professional expertise and a genuine heart for this work.
Education: A bachelor's degree in Human Services, Social Work, Psychology, Special Education, or a related field is required. Relevant certifications are preferred, including Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC), Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), and CPR/First Aid.
Experience: Candidates should have 3–5 or more years of experience in developmental disabilities or adult services, with at least 2 years in a supervisory or management role. Experience managing day habilitation or community-based programs is strongly preferred, as is a track record in person-centered planning and behavior support implementation.
Knowledge: A strong working knowledge of state and federal regulations governing developmental disability services — including licensing, accreditation, and documentation requirements — is essential.
Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication, strong organizational abilities, and the capacity to manage multiple priorities simultaneously are all critical to success in this role.
Personal Qualities
This position calls for someone who leads with patience and empathy, holds others to high standards while supporting their growth, and approaches every interaction with cultural competence and respect. A deep commitment to the dignity, independence, and full inclusion of individuals with disabilities is not just valued here — it is foundational to everything TRAILS does.
Additional Requirements
Candidates must hold a valid driver's license with a clean driving record, pass required background checks and state clearance requirements, and be physically able to provide mobility assistance or other participant support as needed.
Why TRAILS?
At Tierra Learning Center, you'll work in an inspiring natural setting with a mission-driven team that believes in the power of community, stewardship, and positive growth. The TRAILS program is a place where participants paddle kayaks, express themselves through art, and build the skills and confidence to live fuller lives. As Program Manager, you'll be at the center of that — shaping not just a program, but the daily experience of people who deserve nothing less than your best.
Compensation & Benefits
- Compensation: $51,500 - $75,000 DOE
- Benefits: Medical insurance stipend; 11 paid holidays annually; Paid Time Off with regular scheduled increase; matching contribution to employer sponsored IRA plan.
- Schedule: Approximately 40 hours per week with majority of hours M-F 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
How to Apply
Please submit via really.com a resume and cover letter describing your relevant experience.
Pay: $51,500.00 - $75,000.00 per year
License/Certification:
- Home Care Aide Certification (Required)
- WA State driver's license (Required)
Work Location: In person
Salary : $51,500 - $75,000