Benefits:
401(k) matching
Bonus based on performance
Opportunity for advancement
Job Title: Designated Manager – DHS 245D Program
Location: New Brighton, Minnesota Employment Type: Full-Time Reports To: Managing Director
Job Summary
The Designated Manager for the DHS 245D Program is responsible for the overall administration, leadership, and compliance oversight of home and community-based services for individuals with disabilities. This role ensures full compliance with Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) 245D licensing standards while promoting high-quality, person-centered services that support independence, dignity, health, and individual choice.
The Designated Manager provides leadership and coordination across programs, supervises staff, ensures regulatory adherence, oversees service delivery and quality assurance, manages program resources, and serves as a primary liaison with individuals served, families, case managers, counties, and regulatory bodies.
This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced professional passionate about compliance, service excellence, and advocacy for individuals with disabilities.
Key Responsibilities
Ensure all program operations comply with DHS 245D licensing standards, Minnesota Statutes Chapter 245D, and applicable state and federal regulations.
Oversee licensing documentation, policies, procedures, and service delivery practices.
Conduct regular internal audits, monitoring activities, and compliance reviews.
Develop, implement, and monitor corrective action plans when deficiencies are identified.
Stay current on regulatory updates, policy changes, and best practices impacting disability services.
Oversee the development, implementation, and ongoing review of:
Individual Service Plans (ISPs)
Support Plan Addendums
Individualized Abuse Prevention Plans
Positive Support Strategies
Self-Management Assessments
Person-Centered Planning documents and other statutory requirements
Ensure services are person-centered, culturally responsive, and tailored to individual needs.
Monitor service quality to ensure the health, safety, and well-being of individuals served.
Collaborate with case managers, families, guardians, and external partners to coordinate effective service delivery.
Monitor program outcomes and make data-informed improvements.
Recruit, onboard, train, and supervise direct support professionals and program staff.
Ensure staff meet all DHS 245D training and qualification requirements.
Provide ongoing coaching, performance evaluations, and professional development opportunities.
Promote a positive, ethical, and compliant work culture.
Ensure staff understand and follow organizational policies and regulatory expectations.
Develop and manage program budgets, ensuring effective and efficient use of resources.
Monitor expenses, staffing ratios, and program costs.
Collaborate with financial and billing teams to ensure accurate documentation and billing for services rendered.
Ensure compliance with county, state, and federal funding requirements.
Advocate for the rights, dignity, and choices of individuals receiving services.
Serve as a liaison between individuals served, families, staff, case managers, counties, and regulatory agencies.
Address and resolve client or family concerns related to services.
Build and maintain strong relationships with community organizations and government partners.
Identify opportunities for program growth, service enhancement, and innovation.
Develop and implement strategies aligned with organizational goals.
Implement best practices in disability services and 245D program management.
Evaluate program effectiveness and adjust strategies to improve outcomes.
Required Qualifications
Education & Experience (One of the following):
Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Human Services, Psychology, Behavioral Health, or a related field plus one (1) year of full-time direct care experience, OR
Associate degree in a related field plus two (2) years of full-time direct care experience, OR
Diploma from an accredited postsecondary institution in a related field plus three (3) years of full-time direct care experience, OR
Minimum of 50 hours of relevant education/training plus four (4) years of full-time direct care experience under Designated Coordinator supervision.
Additional Requirements
Minimum of 3 years of supervisory or management experience in a DHS 245D licensed program or similar setting preferred.
Demonstrated knowledge of DHS 245D licensing requirements and person-centered planning.
DHS Background Study clearance (required).
Current First Aid/CPR certification or willingness to obtain.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook) and electronic client management systems.
Preferred Qualifications
Prior experience serving as a Designated Manager or Designated Coordinator.
Experience managing DHS compliance audits and corrective action plans.
Budget management and financial oversight experience.
Familiarity with county, state, and federal funding processes related to disability services.
Knowledge of Minnesota Rules Chapter 9544.
Experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities.
Required Skills & Competencies
Strong leadership and staff management skills.
Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.
Exceptional organizational, problem-solving, and time-management skills.
Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
Strong collaboration and relationship-building skills.
Commitment to ethical, person-centered service delivery.
Working Conditions
Work Environment: Office-based with frequent travel to program and service sites.
Physical Demands: Ability to lift up to 25 lbs; walking or standing for extended periods during site visits.
Compensation & Benefits
Competitive compensation package
Matching 401(k)
Paid Time Off (PTO)
Professional development and training opportunities
Supportive, mission-driven work environment
How to Apply
Qualified candidates are encouraged to apply. Only candidates meeting minimum qualifications will be contacted for further consideration.
Thank you for your interest in joining our team and supporting individuals with disabilities through high-quality, person-centered services.