Job Title: Program Director, Independent Living Training & Technical Assistance (IL T&TA) Center

Full-Time | Remote | United States

Reports To: Co-Executive Director

Salary Range: $75,000 - $90,000

Why Join Our Team?

At The Partnership for Inclusive Disaster Strategies, we are focused on equity for people with disabilities and people with access and functional needs throughout all planning, programs, services and procedures before, during and after disasters and emergencies

As a disability-led nonprofit organization, we are committed to the principles of Independent Living (IL) and Disability Justice. For nearly 10 years, we have equipped individuals and the IL Network with high-quality training, technical assistance, and resources.

Joining our team means becoming part of a dedicated community that values and prioritizes IL, Disability Justice, cultural competency, and leadership by Disabled people. We offer a collaborative environment where your contributions directly enhance the quality of life for people with disabilities nationwide.

About Your Role

As the Program Director of the Independent Living Training and Technical Assistance (IL T&TA) Center, you will lead a federally funded initiative from the Administration for Community Living (ACL) in the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). You will be responsible for planning and executing comprehensive training and technical assistance programs that align with ACL's strategic goals and enhance the capacity of the Independent Living Network.

In this role, you will develop systems for optimal program delivery, define and implement initiative strategic plans, and coordinate a multidisciplinary team. By advancing Independent Living services and supporting the Independent Living Network in their compliance with federal regulations, you will take the lead in improving the lives of disabled people nationwide. Additionally, you will support other areas related to the project, ensuring a holistic approach to program implementation and organizational growth.

This role is instrumental in ensuring that the IL T&TA Center serves as a central resource for the Independent Living Network, supporting the advancement of Independent Living and enhancing the quality of life for people with disabilities across the United States.

What You'll Do

• Leadership
  • Develop and implement a comprehensive 5-year strategic plan with measurable goals, reviewed and updated annually.
  • Oversee all aspects of the IL T&TA Center, including alignment with ACL's objectives.
  • Drive continuous improvement of the Center's services to meet evolving grantee needs.
  • Implement a risk management strategy to proactively identify and mitigate potential project challenges.
  • Manage and mentor a multidisciplinary team, setting clear objectives and fostering a collaborative environment.
  • Promote professional development and ensure the team reflects the values of IL Philosophy and disability justice.
  • Oversee staffing and ensure effective allocation of resources.
    
• Program Management
  • Oversee the development and implementation of training and technical assistance programs for Centers for Independent Living (CILs), State Independent Living Councils (SILCs), and Designated State Entities (DSEs).
  • Provide specialized support in areas like Independent Living Skills Training, peer support, advocacy, Information and Referral, and transition support.
  • Ensure program activities are delivered on time, adhering to federal regulations and contractual obligations.
  • Oversee the development of resources and tools, including best practice guides and toolkits, to support grantees in enhancing service delivery.
    
• Stakeholder Engagement
  • Build and maintain strong relationships with ACL, AoD-funded resource centers, IL Network partners, and other stakeholders.
  • Establish and lead an advisory council of experts to guide program content and reflect current best practices.
  • Conduct regular engagement with grantees to assess training needs, customize services, and foster peer-to-peer networking within the IL Network.
    
• Evaluation and Reporting
  • Develop and monitor performance metrics to measure the effectiveness of training and technical assistance efforts.
  • Develop all required reports to ACL and stakeholders, including monthly updates, quarterly reports, and annual evaluations.
  • Utilize evaluation data to refine program services and demonstrate improvements in grantee outcomes.
    
• IL Data Portal Maintenance
  • Ensure maintenance and upkeep of the IL Data Portal, ensuring it is secure, user-friendly, and compliant with federal data submission standards.
  • Ensure that training and technical assistance for IL Network grantees on using the data portal are provided effectively.
  • Collaborate with ACL's Office of Information Resource Management to identify and address potential vulnerabilities.
    
• Section 21 Carve-Out Project
  • Support initiatives to improve outreach and service delivery to unserved and underserved populations, including tribal communities and non-native English speakers.
  • Support with the establishment of a tribal expert peer cohort to provide ongoing support and guidance within the IL Network.
  • Support the development of toolkits and training materials to enhance cultural competence and inclusivity among IL Network grantees.

What You'll Need to Get the Job Done

• Education
  • Degree in Social Work, Disability Studies, Nonprofit Management, or a related field.
• Experience
  • Minimum of 5 years in nonprofit program management, preferably within the Independent Living or disability rights sector.
  • In-depth knowledge of the Rehabilitation Act, Independent Living services, and IL-related federal regulations.
• Technical Skills
  • Proficiency in project management.
  • Familiarity with data management systems and ensuring ICT accessibility compliance (Section 508 and WCAG 2.1 AA standards).

What Will Make Us Really Love You

• Leadership Skills
  • Strong leadership and team management abilities with experience overseeing multidisciplinary teams.
  • Proven ability to develop and maintain interpersonal relationships with diverse stakeholders.
• Communication Skills
  • Detail-oriented written and verbal communication skills with a focus on IL Philosophy.
  • Conflict resolution and strategic problem-solving skills.
• Collaboration and Innovation
  • Team player who actively fosters open communication, encourages the exchange of new ideas, and embraces collaborative efforts to find creative solutions.
  • Receives input from others, readily shares credit, and works towards collective success, creating a workplace culture that is inclusive, respectful, and open to innovation.
• Organizational Skills
  • Robust multitasking and organizational skills, with strong attention to details, deadlines, and constraints.
  • Excellent prioritization and decision-making skills, especially when presented with multiple options.

What You'll Love About Us

Our organization values those who make our mission possible. We are committed to creating a friendly environment where employees feel welcomed, valued, and supported. We offer the following benefits:

• Time Off
  • Paid Time Off and 10 paid holidays
• Work-Life Balance
  • Remote work arrangements with occasional travel opportunities
  • Flexible work schedules.
• Professional Development
  • Opportunities for career advancement and professional development training.
• Health and Wellness
  • Monthly supplemental financial wellness support
  • The Partnership will offer a healthcare package in the near future.
• IT and Equipment
  • Equipment provided (computer, software, any needed accommodations)
  • Monthly IT financial support (towards phone and internet expenses due to the remote nature of organization operations)
• Retirement
  • 401k retirement plan

The Partnership for Inclusive Disaster Strategies is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We're committed to diversity and inclusion. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law.

People with disabilities, people of color, LGBTQ2SIA+ people, and people who are multiply marginalized are strongly encouraged to apply.

 

How to Apply

We want to fill this position quickly. We ask that you apply as soon as possible.

Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter detailing their qualifications and interest in the position to info@disasterstrategies.org.