Program Specialist Career Guide
Discover what a Program Specialist does at OneWell Healthcare — from day-to-day responsibilities and qualifications to career growth.
What Is a Program Specialist?
A Program Specialist at OneWell Healthcare coordinates and oversees community-based service programs for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). They ensure program quality, compliance with state regulations, and effective service delivery by supporting direct care staff, coordinating with case managers, and maintaining documentation in accordance with Medicaid waiver requirements.
Job Outlook
Program coordination roles in IDD and home care services are growing alongside demand for community-based services. Medicaid HCBS waiver expansion continues to drive hiring for program oversight roles.
How to Become a Program Specialist
- 1Earn a bachelor's degree in a relevant fieldA degree in human services, social work, psychology, public health, or a related field is typically required for Program Specialist positions.
- 2Gain experience in direct care or program coordinationMost employers prefer 1–3 years of experience working with IDD populations, in direct care, or in program administration in a healthcare or social services setting.
- 3Develop knowledge of Medicaid waiver programsFamiliarity with HCBS Medicaid waivers, ISPs (Individualized Service Plans), and state regulations for IDD services is essential for program oversight roles.
- 4Apply for Program Specialist positionsOneWell Healthcare employs Program Specialists across multiple states to support our IDD service programs and ensure quality and compliance.
- 5Advance into managementProgram Specialists commonly advance into Program Supervisor, Regional Director, and Operations Manager roles with experience.
Required Skills
- ✓Program coordination and oversight
- ✓IDD service delivery knowledge
- ✓Medicaid waiver compliance
- ✓Staff supervision and support
- ✓Individualized Service Plan (ISP) review
- ✓Data reporting and documentation
- ✓Communication with families and support teams
- ✓Problem-solving and quality improvement
Certifications
- →CPR / First Aid (required)
- →State-required IDD training (varies by state)
- →Medication Administration certification
- →Positive Behavior Support training
Why Work as a Program Specialist at OneWell Healthcare?
Program Specialist Jobs by State
Click a state to see salary data, local requirements, and open positions near you.
Open Program Specialist Positions at OneWell
4 active openings — updated daily.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about working as a Program Specialist.
What does a Program Specialist do at OneWell?
Program Specialists coordinate IDD service delivery, monitor program quality, support direct care staff, review individualized service plans, and ensure compliance with Medicaid waiver and state regulatory requirements.
What qualifications do I need to become a Program Specialist?
A bachelor's degree in human services, psychology, or a related field plus 1–3 years of experience in IDD services, social work, or healthcare program administration are the typical requirements.
How much does a Program Specialist earn?
Program Specialist salaries average approximately $52,000 per year nationally, or $22–$32 per hour. Salaries vary by location, program size, and level of supervisory responsibility.
What is the career path for a Program Specialist?
Program Specialists commonly advance into Program Supervisor, Regional Program Manager, or Director of IDD Services roles as they gain experience and demonstrate leadership capability.
Ready to Start Your Program Specialist Career?
Join OneWell Healthcare — 4 open positions available across 2 states. Apply today and make a difference.
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