Job Title: Quality Assurance Specialist
Location: Multiple Locations to be Monitored- Frederick, Mount Airy, Westminster, Ellicott City
Employment Type: Full-Time

ABOUT US

The Difference 2-17 provides skill enrichment, community development services, volunteering and job supports, and personal supports for adults with autism or other developmental disabilities. We are committed to delivering safe, respectful, and engaging environments that foster independence, dignity, and quality of life for the individuals we serve.

POSITION OVERVIEW

The Quality Assurance Specialist will be responsible for maintaining and monitoring quality and compliance standards across our service locations. This position will involve conducting regular in-person evaluations of program sites to ensure adherence to state Department of Disabilities regulations, organizational policies, and best practices in supporting adults with disabilities. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of disability services, regulatory requirements, and the ability to identify and address compliance issues with professionalism and tact.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience working with adults with autism and/or developmental disabilities required.
• Strong knowledge of OSHA, HIPAA, Maryland Department of Disabilities COMAR standards, and other relevant quality standards.
• Proven experience conducting quality audits and implementing corrective actions.
• Proficiency in QA/QC methodologies and tools for evaluating service quality.
• Excellent project management skills with the ability to lead cross-functional teams.
• Strong analytical skills with exceptional attention to detail and problem-solving abilities.
• Effective communication skills to convey complex information clearly to various stakeholders.
• Excellent organizational and documentation skills.
• Ability to travel frequently to multiple service locations.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation required.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Previous quality assurance or compliance experience in human services, social services, or disability support programs.
• Familiarity with incident reporting, risk management, and continuous quality improvement processes.

REQUIRED EDUCATION:

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field such as Human Services, Social Work, Psychology, Special Education, Public Health, Quality Management, or Business Administration
• OR equivalent combination of education and relevant work experience in quality assurance, compliance, or disability services.

PREFERRED EDUCATION:

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in a relevant field.
• Additional training or certification in Quality Assurance, Compliance, Risk Management, or Project Management
  Job Type: Full-time
  Pay: From $60,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan

Work Location: In perso

• Conduct consistent, in-person site evaluations to monitor safety, cleanliness, and compliance with all applicable regulations and organizational standards.
• Assess service environments for quality of care, adherence to individualized person-centered plan, and overall program effectiveness.
• Identify potential risks or deficiencies and provide clear, constructive feedback to staff and leadership.
• Monitor and ensure compliance with the Maryland Department of Disabilities COMAR regulations, OSHA standards, HIPAA guidelines, and other relevant quality standards.
• Document findings through detailed reports and recommend corrective actions as needed.
• Conduct quality audits and implement corrective actions based on findings.
• Utilize QA/QC methodologies and tools for effective analysis of service quality.
• Collaborate with managers and direct support staff to address compliance issues and improve service delivery.
• Lead cross-functional teams on quality improvement initiatives.
• Maintain current knowledge of state and federal regulations related to services for adults with developmental disabilities.
• Participate in internal quality assurance meetings and contribute to the development of continuous improvement strategies.