Program Assistant

Program Assistant:

• FSLA- Non-Exempt
• Reports to Program Manager
• Tuscaloosa, AL

Position Summary:
The Program Assistant collaborates with the Program Manager and Director to create a supportive living environment for independent living residents and college students. This role focuses on meeting residents' physical, emotional, social, spiritual, and educational needs, with flexible scheduling that may include overnight stays. The Program Assistant may also assist with other programs at the location.

Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with the Program Manager and other staff to maintain a respectful and study-friendly living environment.
• Prepare healthy meals with input from the students regarding preferences.
• Provide transportation for residents.
• Follow safety protocols and participate in safety drills.
• Communicate with students to understand their backgrounds and goals.
• Supervise residents and mediate conflicts as needed.
• Provide encouragement and positive feedback to enhance students' confidence.
• Use knowledge of residents' backgrounds to apply trauma-informed care.
• Manage emergencies calmly and professionally.
• Complete training and maintain compliance with policies.
• Keep confidential information secure and follow HIPAA regulations.
• Handle scheduling flexibly and prepare necessary reports and documents.
• Maintain resident files and answer phones promptly.
• Prepares purchase orders, monthly reports and other general items as needed.

Knowledge, Skills and Qualifications:

• Must be a high school graduate or have an equivalent certificate (GED).
• Six (6) months of paid experience working in a residential program or environment with youth and or families required.
• Must be 21 years of age.
• Bachelor’s Degree preferred.
• Proficiency in computer use and understanding of basic word processing and spreadsheet software required.
• Using the English language, must have verbal and written communication skills, and interpersonal skills that allow for professional interaction with staff, stakeholders and the general public.
• Must have a valid driver license.
• Must have proof of automobile liability insurance and driving record that will allow coverage on Agency’s insurance policy.
• Must receive a satisfactory background check that includes a check of employment and personal references, criminal history, driving background, Child Abuse & Neglect Registry, and pass a pre-employment physical examination including a TB skin test and drug screen.

Physical Requirements:

• Vision: Must be able to drive, read reports, observe conditions related to work, view computer screen, etc.
• Cognitive: Must be able to think independently, logically, and problem solve.
• Hearing: Must be able to hear well enough to communicate with co-workers, employees, families and the general public.
• Standing/Walking/Mobility: Must be able to stand to open files and operate office machines, mobility to drive, get in and out of private homes as well as work area, some standing for prolonged periods for presentation. Normal coordination including eye-hand and hand-foot.
• Climbing/Stooping, Kneeling: Must be able to stoop and kneel as needed to file, retrieve documents, assist families and perform CPR and First Aid, etc.
• Lifting/Pulling/Pushing: Must be able to lift and carry up case files, lap top computer which may weigh up to 20 pounds.
• Manual Dexterity: Must be able to write, type, use telephone system, file, drive, etc.

As followers of Christ, our passion for serving is motivated by compassion and a calling to provide homes, healing, and hope. We strive to be there for individuals who need someone to care for them when those closest to them can’t adequately provide that care. Those we serve experience hardships no one should have to face, including neglect, abuse, and abandonment. We nurture these vulnerable individuals by embracing them, meeting them where they are, and loving them unconditionally. We’re not only providing them with homes, we’re giving them a system of support and care to help them flourish. While faith is the core of our mission, we are driven by a desire to nurture, support, and prepare individuals for productive, thriving futures. We believe we can break what often becomes a cycle of neglect and circumstance for many vulnerable children and families. Our caring and compassionate team works to change the trajectory of the lives of those we serve in our homes and our programs are centered around family preservation, foster care, and school readiness.