• THE JOB
• COMPENSATION
• REQUIREMENTS
• OCCUPATIONAL CODES
  
  

PROGRAM DIRECTORS - SOCIAL DAY CARE (ADULT DAY CARE OCCUPATIONS)
California Occupational Guide Number 2008 (part)
Interest Area:  Emerging Occupations
1996

THE JOB  

In larger day care centers Program Directors are hired to develop individual 
programs in accordance with the needs of each day care participant.  These 
plans involve an initial assessment of the participant, determination of 
needs, and a specific service plan to meet those needs.  They arrange for 
special provisions for care and supervision, including safety and guidance 
of clients with disabilities.  Program Directors implement and coordinate each
program with Administrators, Activity Directors, Team Leaders, family 
members, volunteers, and food service workers, evaluating the participant's 
changing needs and making necessary program adjustments.  They supervise 
and train volunteers, Activity Directors and Team Leaders.  Program Directors
must be "on the floor" and available to participants and their families most 
of the time.

COMPENSATION

A formal salary survey is not available; however, references to hourly 
salaries range widely, from $6.09 to $19.87 depending largely on staff 
size, census size, experience and education.

REQUIREMENTS

Job Skills Needed:

 - Basic knowledge of psychology (how people think and perceive)
 - Knowledge and competence in working with the elderly or impaired adults 
   who live at home
 - Knowledge of physical, social and mental health programs operating 
   within a licensed health facility or clinic
 - Ability to communicate effectively with participants, families of 
   participants, health care and social service professionals, and team 
   staff members – both orally and in writing
 - Fluency in second language helpful
 - Compassion and patience

Training/Requirements:

 - Most large centers require bachelor or master's degree in social work, 
   psychology, or related fields, and additional experience working with 
   those in residential or day care facilities
 - Fingerprint processing required
 - Proof of current good health (signed by a physician)
 - Tuberculosis test mandatory
 - First Aid certificate usually required 

OCCUPATIONAL CODES

DOT
  Program Director, Group Work      187.117-046
OES
  Managers & Administrators, NEC         199990

Source:  State of California, Employment Development Department,
         Labor Market Information Division, Information Services Group,
         (916)  262-2162

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