ACCESS Life Assistant Instructor

Position Purpose

Serve as a key partner in delivering the daily instruction of ACCESS Life. This role supports programming that promotes vocation, community engagement, leisure activities, and personal independence for all participants.

What You’ll Do

• Program Support: Assist the Lead Instructor in implementing programming across vocational training, community integration, leisure, and independent living.
  • Prepare materials, set up activities, and support participants during instruction.
• Communication & Team Collaboration: Communicate professionally and promptly with the Lead Instructor and team. Support positive interactions with participants, families, and stakeholders. Assist with communication and coordination with funding partners (ARS, Waiver case managers, parents/guardians) as needed.
• Relationship Building: Help create a warm, supportive, and encouraging environment. Model appropriate rapport, professional boundaries, and respectful interactions.
• Behavior & Classroom Support: Support the Lead Instructor in applying effective behavior and classroom management strategies. Implement behavior plans, reinforce expectations, and provide redirection when needed.
• Data Collection & Documentation: Assist with collecting, organizing, and tracking data related to participant goals and progress. Help maintain accurate, timely documentation required by program guidelines and funding sources.
• Safety & Supervision: Support participant safety in all settings—on campus, in the community, and during transportation. Follow all safety protocols, emergency procedures, and supervision standards.
• Transportation Support: Provide transportation for participants as needed while adhering to all driving and safety expectations.
• Administrative Assistance: Assist with preparing and managing paperwork needed for funding and program operations. Help complete forms, attendance sheets, activity logs, and required documentation.

Additional Duties

Perform other related tasks that support overall program operations and participant success.

What You Bring

• Treats people with respect
• Keeps commitments and inspires trust
• Acts with integrity and aligns with organizational values
• Approaches others tactfully
• Responds well under pressure
• Takes responsibility and follows through
• Cost Consciousness: Works within approved budgets and conserves organizational resources
• Judgment: Makes sound decisions and includes the right people in the process. Uses accurate judgment and acts in a timely manner
• Management: Takes responsibility for teaching assistants’ activities. Supports team skill development and growth
• Oral Communication: Listens well and seeks clarification. Responds to questions and participates in meetings with confidence
• Planning & Organizing: Prioritizes effectively and uses time well. Plans for resources and collaborates on scheduling—particularly for ceramics and horticulture. Ensures paperwork is completed and submitted on time. Adjusts programming schedules as needed to meet participant needs
• Problem Solving: Identifies and resolves issues promptly. Gathers and analyzes information effectively. Develops solutions collaboratively. Uses reason even when navigating emotional topics

Physical Demands

• Frequent talking and hearing
• Standing, kneeling, crouching, or occasional walking and sitting
• Lift or move up to 20 pounds
• Moderate noise levels

Qualifications

• Education: High School Diploma or equivalent required; some college preferred
• Experience / Knowledge: Minimum of two years of experience in a similar position or equivalent experience working with adults with developmental disabilities
• Skills & Abilities: Strong, professional communication skills with diverse groups. Excellent organization and attention to detail. Ability to read, analyze, and interpret data to document participant success. Ability to support behavior plan development and implementation. Strong common-sense problem-solving skills.
• Travel Requirements: Minimal travel required; may include transporting participants
• ACCESS Drivers: Must Maintain a valid driver’s license. Current auto liability insurance and registration. A clean driving record. Physical ability to drive locally throughout Arkansas