Search
LCS Careers

LCS Professional Development Program

Start a high‑impact career with hands‑on training, real community experience, and nationwide opportunities.

Developing Leaders Who Elevate Senior Living

The LCS Professional Development Program (PDP) is a paid, immersive leadership pathway designed to prepare future Executive Directors and Administrators for meaningful careers in senior living. Through hands‑on experiences, strong mentorship, and exposure to LCS communities nationwide, the program equips emerging professionals to lead confidently and deliver exceptional experiences for residents, employees, and partners.

The program is intentionally designed to build strong, well‑rounded leaders. Explore the core elements of the PDP below:

Earn while you learn with competitive wages and comprehensive benefits.

Program length may vary based on previous experience and state licensing requirements.

Train at one of 130+ LCS‑managed communities across the country.

Successful participants may be placed into roles across the LCS network.

Work directly with seasoned Executive Directors and Administrators.

Preparing Leaders to Shape Exceptional Communities

The PDP delivers a comprehensive, hands‑on learning experience that prepares participants for the realities of leading a senior living community. Through a balance of structured training, departmental rotations, and project‑based learning, participants gain the operational expertise and leadership confidence needed to excel in an executive role.

Gain broad exposure to daily community operations—from dining and health services to life enrichment, facilities, and administration—understanding how each department contributes to resident satisfaction and organizational success.

Receive one‑on‑one coaching and mentorship from seasoned Executive Directors and Administrators who help you grow your leadership approach, decision‑making skills, and confidence.

Build a strong foundation in compliance, financial management, customer experience, HR fundamentals, and other operational competencies through structured training modules.

Lead or support meaningful initiatives that improve workflows, elevate the resident and employee experience, and strengthen overall community performance.
testimonial

One of my favorite things about LCS is its focus on professional development. When I joined the PDP program, I immediately felt like I was in good hands and had the support I needed to grow my career as an Administrator and eventually an Executive Director in senior living. I especially appreciated how PDPs are paired with Life Plan Communities, giving us the opportunity to learn from and experience the full continuum of care. Since joining the company five years ago as an Administrator, I've had the chance to work at several communities, both in interim and long-term roles. Those experiences have helped me grow tremendously as a leader and professional. I'm still connected with many of my PDP colleagues and have met so many other amazing people throughout the company over the years. If you're looking to build a career and become a leader in senior living, this is an opportunity you don't want to miss.

 Brook Administrator
testimonial

I was a member of Class 15 of the Professional Development Program in 2019. The program provided valuable insight into how LCS communities across the country operate and serve residents. Since then, I have had the opportunity to support several LCS communities, consistently drawing on the principles, tools, and perspectives gained through the program. The program is an excellent way for emerging professionals to build a strong foundation and launch a successful career in senior living.

 Pierce Executive Director
testimonial

Participating in the LCS Professional Development Program (PDP) was one of the most impactful experiences of my career. The program challenged me to think more strategically, lead more intentionally, and expand my perspective beyond the day-to-day responsibilities of my role. Through meaningful mentorship, collaboration with talented leaders across the organization, and hands-on professional development opportunities, I gained the confidence and skills needed to continue growing as a leader in senior living.

What stood out most was LCS's commitment to investing in its people. The PDP reinforced that leadership is not defined by a title, but by the ability to inspire others, drive positive change, and create exceptional experiences for residents and team members alike. The relationships I built and the lessons I learned continue to influence how I serve my community, support my team, and pursue excellence every day.

The program aligned perfectly with my personal vision of leading with purpose, developing others, and making a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve. LCS doesn't just develop leaders—it empowers individuals to reach their potential while staying connected to a greater mission of enriching lives and creating exceptional experiences.

My journey through the PDP program strengthened my belief that when organizations invest in people, extraordinary outcomes follow for residents, employees, and communities alike.

 Luke Administrator
Previous
Next

Professional Development Program FAQ

The PDP delivers a comprehensive, hands‑on learning experience that prepares participants for the realities of leading a senior living community. Through a balance of structured training, departmental rotations, and project‑based learning, participants gain the operational expertise and leadership confidence needed to excel in an executive role.

  • Rotational Experiences  
  • Exposure to executive leadership  
  • Mentorship by an experienced executive director and nursing home administrator  
  • Placement opportunities post-program  

Operations, dining, healthcare, resident services, sales and marketing, finance, HR, environmental services, compliance, etc.

Permanent long-term placement opportunities will be available in the LCS network.

Nursing Home Administrator roles within the LCS network.

Yes, the LCS Professional Development Program is a salaried, full-time position with benefits and a PTO package. 

Yes, the program will prepare you for state licensure by gaining hands on experience in a community and quarterly development meetings for additional education and training.

Yes. Relocation is required for this position. The specific community and location will be determined based on the community identified for placement.