Director of Children’s Residential Programs

The Director of Children's Residential Programs at Birch Family Services leads residential services for children in the Linden Hill neighborhood of Queens, New York.

This full‑time position oversees program quality, staff development, and family partnerships to ensure safe, nurturing homes for youth with diverse needs.

About the Role

As the director, you will shape the strategic direction of residential programs that serve children with autism and developmental disabilities, guiding a multidisciplinary team to deliver individualized care that promotes growth, independence, and well‑being.

What You'll Do

• Develop and implement program policies, procedures, and quality improvement initiatives aligned with state and federal regulations.
• Recruit, train, and supervise residential staff, including clinicians, direct support professionals, and administrative personnel.
• Manage program budgets, monitor expenses, and ensure financial sustainability while maintaining high service standards.
• Coordinate with families, guardians, and community partners to create individualized service plans and facilitate smooth transitions.
• Oversee intake, assessment, and discharge processes, ensuring timely and appropriate placements for each child.
• Conduct regular site visits and program audits to verify safety, cleanliness, and compliance with licensing requirements.
• Analyze outcome data and service metrics to drive continuous improvement and report results to senior leadership.

What We're Looking For

• Master’s degree in social work, psychology, education, public health, or a related field; a bachelor’s degree with extensive experience may be considered.
• Minimum of five years of progressive leadership experience in residential or community‑based services for children with developmental disabilities.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multidisciplinary teams, foster staff development, and cultivate a culture of accountability.
• Strong knowledge of New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) regulations, Medicaid waivers, and related funding streams.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for effective collaboration with families, advocacy groups, and governmental agencies.
• Proficient in data collection, outcome measurement, and using performance dashboards to inform decision‑making.
• Commitment to person‑centered, trauma‑informed practices that honor the strengths and preferences of each child and family.

About Birch Family Services

Birch Family Services delivers education, employment, and community‑based support to people with autism and developmental disabilities and their families throughout New York City. The agency serves over 2,000 individuals each year at more than thirty sites spanning Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, and the Bronx, offering a continuum of care that begins in early childhood programs and extends through school‑age services, vocational training, housing assistance, and lifelong support.

How to Apply

To apply, complete your application directly on this page, or you'll be redirected to the employer's application platform to finish submitting there.